Macklemore and Ryan Lewis were an American hip‑hop duo from Seattle, Washington. The partnership consisted of rapper Macklemore (Ben Haggerty) and record producer Ryan Lewis. They are best known for their independent releases that achieved mainstream success without major label backing.
The duo formed in 2009, uniting Macklemore's lyrical style with Lewis's production skills. Their first collaborative release was the EP *VS. EP* in 2009, followed by a re‑worked version titled *VS. Redux* in 2010. These early projects established their DIY approach to recording and promotion. In 2012 they released *The Heist*, an album that earned multiple Grammy Awards, marking a high point in their career. After a four‑year gap, they issued a second studio album, *This Unruly Mess I've Made*, in 2016.
Macklemore and Ryan Lewis operated within the hip‑hop genre, blending rap verses with melodic choruses and pop‑oriented production. Their work often incorporated socially conscious lyrics and storytelling, reflecting influences from both underground and mainstream rap traditions. The duo's sound also featured collaborations with artists from adjacent genres, exemplified by the track "White Walls" featuring ScHoolboy Q and Hollis.
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The partnership has functioned as a duo since its inception; no former members are documented.
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The Heist received Grammy recognition, highlighting the duo's ability to achieve critical and commercial success independently. Their approach demonstrated that hip‑hop artists could bypass traditional label routes while still reaching wide audiences. The partnership remains a reference point for independent hip‑hop collaborations. While no further releases have been announced after 2016, the duo's catalog continues to be cited in discussions of modern American hip‑hop.