Drug Dealer

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis's song "Drug Dealer" is a powerful critique of the opioid crisis and the role of pharmaceutical companies in perpetuating addiction. The song opens with a haunting melody, setting a somber tone that underscores the gravity of the subject matter. Macklemore's lyrics delve into the personal and societal impacts of prescription drug abuse, highlighting the tragic consequences that have claimed the lives of many, including celebrities like Prince, Michael Jackson, and Whitney Houston.

The song's chorus, sung by Ariana DeBoo, poignantly reveals the betrayal felt by those who trusted their doctors, only to find themselves ensnared in a cycle of addiction. The repeated line, "My drug dealer was a doctor," emphasizes the irony and tragedy of the situation. Instead of healing, these medical professionals, influenced by Big Pharma, have become unwitting dealers, pushing drugs that lead to dependency and, ultimately, death. The lyrics also touch on the broader societal issue, noting how the crisis has spread from urban centers to suburban areas, affecting people from all walks of life.

Macklemore's verses are raw and unflinching, describing the physical and emotional toll of addiction. He speaks of friends lost to overdoses, the desperation of needing another fix, and the hollow existence of living as a "walking carcass." The song also includes a plea for change, invoking the Serenity Prayer to highlight the need for both personal and systemic transformation. By addressing the complicity of pharmaceutical companies and the healthcare system, "Drug Dealer" calls for accountability and a reevaluation of how society handles pain management and addiction.