SZA’s Heartfelt Tribute to Mac Miller After the Release of ‘Balloonerism’: “I Miss My Friend”
On Friday, January 17, the world was gifted a bittersweet moment with the release of Mac Miller’s posthumous album, Balloonerism. Among its many highlights is a deeply emotional collaboration featuring SZA on the track “DJ’s Chord Organ.” The album serves not just as a tribute to Mac’s musical genius but also as a poignant reminder of the connections he forged with those he worked with, like SZA, who honored him with an outpouring of love and gratitude.
In the early hours of the album’s release, SZA shared a heartfelt post on social media, expressing her emotions and reflecting on her bond with the late rapper. She wrote, “I love my friend, I miss my friend. I’m grateful he saw something in me before most others did and treated me with love from day one.”
She continued with an earnest plea to fans: “I wish he could see how incredibly right he was about so many things. Stream Balloonerism NOW.”
A Bond Beyond Music
SZA’s relationship with Mac Miller dates back years, as she revealed in a deeply emotional Instagram tribute after his passing in 2018. She wrote, “You were the first person I met when I moved here. You let me come over every day and just be whoever I wanted to be. You showed up for me in ways I can’t describe or repay. My gratitude is endless.”
Recalling their shared memories, SZA painted a vivid picture of their friendship: “The first to believe in me, record me all day, and eat those gross ham sandwiches. You introduced me to some of the best people I’ve ever met and taught me to play with gadgets I’d never seen before. I’d swim in my clothes, and you’d hand me a pink polo pajama set to change into instead of something ugly. You were annoyingly amazing, and I miss you.”
A Celebration of Mac’s Legacy
Balloonerism was more than just an album release—it became a celebration of Mac Miller’s artistry and impact. According to Rolling Stone, the album premiered with special screenings on Wednesday, January 15, in select theaters across Mac’s hometown of Pittsburgh and in New York City. Tickets were priced at just $5, with all proceeds benefiting the Mac Miller Fund.
On January 16, the screenings expanded globally to cities like Toronto, London, Paris, Melbourne, Berlin, Sydney, Dublin, and Auckland. Attendees also received limited-edition merchandise, a thoughtful touch to commemorate the occasion.
A Surreal Journey Through Music
The album’s accompanying film adds a creative layer to Mac’s legacy. As per the official synopsis, Balloonerism tells the story of “a group of school friends transformed by the music of an organ and thrust into a world of darkness. Consumed by the time turtle, they must navigate the underbelly of adulthood.”
With its unique narrative and global celebration, the project cements Mac Miller’s enduring influence and serves as a powerful reminder of his unmatched creativity.
For SZA, this collaboration is not just about the music but also a testament to the profound impact Mac had on her life. Her words echo a shared sentiment among fans and friends alike: “He believed in me, and for that, I’ll always be thankful.”
