The introspective rapper enjoys his biggest year to date.

As a teenager, Capitol Hill native Ben Hagerty dreamed of becoming a successful rapper. Today, the Seattle hip-hop scene is in full swing – and Hagerty (aka Macklemore) is considered one of the movement’s founding fathers. Thanks to a massive worldwide tour and highly anticipated album slated for release next week, this socially conscious MC is preparing to make the leap from local favorite to national icon.