Post Malone, the renowned rapper and singer, has opened up about his personal struggles and the transformative power of family and music. From his humble beginnings as a video game enthusiast to his upcoming Grand Ole Opry performance, Malone reflects on his evolution and his mission to spread love and acceptance through his artistry.
Post Malone, the 29-year-old music sensation who has soared to fame with his hip-hop and country anthems, has bared his soul in a candid interview, revealing his past struggles with loneliness and the profound impact his daughter and fiancée have had on his life.
Born in New York and raised in Texas, Malone's musical journey began with a passion for video games. However, it was a real guitar that ignited his songwriting talent. "It was like, 'All right, let me get a real guitar and see if it translates.' And it did not," he told CBS News.
Post Malone's Intimate Journey: From Loneliness to Love and the Grand Ole Opry
Undeterred, Malone pursued songwriting, crafting hits that have earned him critical acclaim and commercial success. Rolling Stone hailed his "gift for turning dreamy darkness into Top 40 gold." Malone himself describes the process as "making a baby with sound waves... which is neat, I think."
In 2022, Malone welcomed his first child, a daughter, with his long-time partner. The birth of his child, whom he has kept private, marked a turning point in his life. "I'll never forget her. If you heard her cry, you'll never forget her, either," he said. "It changes you in the best way ever."
Post Malone's Intimate Journey: From Loneliness to Love and the Grand Ole Opry
Malone credits his daughter and fiancée for saving him from a "rough time." "Four years ago, I was on a rough path," he admitted. "Loneliness" had become a constant companion, leaving him feeling lost and empty. However, the love and support of his family has given him a renewed sense of purpose and well-being.
"Gettin' up, havin' a good cry, drinkin,' and then goin' living your life," Malone described his former routine. "And then whenever you go lay down, drinkin' some more and having a good cry. And just like, 'I gotta wake up tomorrow and do this again.' And I don't feel like that anymore. And it's the most amazing thing."
Post Malone's Intimate Journey: From Loneliness to Love and the Grand Ole Opry
Malone's experience of loneliness has led him to make spreading love and acceptance a central part of his artistry. "I don't want people to feel how I've felt. And I know they do. And I'm here, and I'm on stage. And I just want everyone to feel welcome and to feel loved. And that's the most important thing for me."
This mission has found a home in Malone's upcoming country music album, which features collaborations with industry icons such as Morgan Wallen, Blake Shelton, and Dolly Parton. Luke Combs, upon hearing news of the album, eagerly jumped on board to be part of the project, citing Malone's potential to make a profound impact on country music.
Post Malone's Intimate Journey: From Loneliness to Love and the Grand Ole Opry
Malone's journey has culminated in a prestigious invitation to perform at the Grand Ole Opry, the hallowed stage of country music. Brad Paisley, a renowned Opry member, extended the invitation, recognizing Malone's reverence for the genre and his upcoming foray into country music.
"It's gonna be the first of many appearances I have a feeling for you," Paisley said to Malone in a video shared on X. "Come experience what it's like to play the show that started it all."
Post Malone's Intimate Journey: From Loneliness to Love and the Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry performance marks a significant milestone in Malone's musical evolution and his unwavering determination to spread his message of love and acceptance. Through his intimate connection with fans, Malone aims to ignite a sense of belonging and remind audiences that they are not alone.
"I cannot even believe it, the place that I'm in," Malone said. "Each night, we go out and we play these shows, and I'm like, 'This could all be gone tomorrow.' So I make the most of every day."
