Mac Miller and Thundercat have come together once again in the fresh, posthumous release of ‘5 Dollar Pony Rides,’ a nostalgic single from Miller’s upcoming album ‘Balloonerism.’
Mac Miller’s new track offers a heartfelt reflection on past relationships with its laidback, dreamy melody. Despite his tragic passing in 2018, the rapper continues to impact fans worldwide with music that resonates deeply. The song ‘5 Dollar Pony Rides’ showcases this emotional depth, with lyrics like ‘I remember, girl, you used to have fun, yeah / Now I ain’t seen a smile in a while.’
The collaboration with Thundercat wasn’t unexpected. The two share a deep friendship and a history of musical partnership. Before Miller’s untimely death due to a drug overdose, they were scheduled to tour together. This song, recorded a decade ago, also features Thundercat’s brothers, Jameel and Ronald Bruner, adding layers of familial ties to the musical reunion.
Thundercat, who has previously spoken about their unreleased projects, shared on social media, ‘Everything isn’t meant to be put out like that. Me and Mac worked on a lot of different things. He did as he saw fit. Y’all gotta relax lol.’ Clearly, the bond they shared extended beyond their music.
In 2023, Thundercat reflected on Miller’s influence, saying, ‘Mac changed my life, man, and he was one of my best friends. And the funny thing is, sometimes we throw the term ‘best friends’ around and stuff like that, but every day, I think about him.’ His words highlight the strong personal and artistic connection they shared.
The release of ‘Balloonerism,’ set for January 17, is marked as an essential project for Mac Miller’s family. Originally recorded in 2014, it aims to honor his artistic legacy and fulfill a dream the Pittsburgh native held dear. The album promises appearances from artists like SZA and Delusional Thomas, adding to the anticipation.
Mac’s family has expressed the album’s importance, noting, ‘Given that unofficial versions of the album have been circulating online for years and that releasing Balloonerism was something that Malcolm frequently expressed being important to him, we felt it most appropriate to present an official version of the project to the world.’
‘5 Dollar Pony Rides’ brings Mac Miller’s talent and Thundercat’s artistry back to the spotlight, creating a nostalgic piece that touches the heart. As ‘Balloonerism’ prepares for its release, fans eagerly await the full emotional journey it promises to deliver.