“5 Dollar Pony Rides” is the first single from Mac Miller’s forthcoming “Balloonerism” album.

There’s something about a Mac Miller song that always feels like I’m being rizzed up. Maybe it’s his unpolished yet effortlessly smooth vocals or the jazzy, soulful instrumentation that backs him up. Whatever it is, Mac has always had this special way of making every verse feel casually intimate, and “5 Dollar Pony Rides” is no exception. 

This track brings smooth beats, funky basslines, and psychedelic background echoes that make you pause and think, “Whoa, what was that?” It’s the kind of song that makes you want to turn it up, sit still, and close your eyes, just to catch every little twist and turn in the music. 

Mac’s voice in this song immediately took me back to moments I had while listening to tracks like “Congratulations” from The Divine Feminine or “Small Worlds” from Swimming. He has a way of communicating his emotions—his contemplation, his passion—through tone and flow. At the song’s beginning, it’s as if he’s conveying the excitement and novelty of getting to know someone. But by the end, there’s a palpable yearning in his voice, as he almost pleads, “Let me give you what you need! What do you need, girl?” 

Overall, this single makes me excited for the album to drop next week. The title set the perfect tone for the song, evoking a sense of “you don’t need to be rich to have a good time” before the first line even hits. The background sounds are eclectic and layered, at times chaotic, but they complement the song without overpowering the artist. 

“5 Dollar Pony Rides” is another reminder of Mac Miller’s ability to craft tracks that feel both personal and universally relatable. Definitely a must-listen. 

Check out “5 Dollar Pony Rides” below. 

Ileyah

Ileyah is a mom, a writer and a musician. She loves late nights and gluten free snacks.