Tonight, April 8, DePauw hosts the newly popular singer/songwriter and spoken-word artist Mary Lambert.
At 7:00 p.m., Lambert will perform in the Thompson Recital Hall, located within the Green Center for the Performing Arts in an event that is free and open to the public.
Lambert is best known for "Same Love," a hit she sang with the hip-hop duo Macklemore & Ryan Lewis. She wrote and sang the chorus of "Same Love," which was nominated for two Grammy's this year.
"Same Love" is a same-sex marriage anthem, promoting equality and love for all people regardless of their sexuality. Lyrics include "It's human rights for everybody, there is no difference," and "A certificate on paper isn't gonna solve it all, but it's a damn good place to start."
Lambert's voice is extremely powerful and heartening, as she represents emerging from a life of struggle and hardship.
She grew up in a strict Pentecostal household, dealt with drug abuse and alcohol, was eventually diagnosed with bipolar disorder, survived a gang rape at age 17 and was repeatedly molested by her father as a child.
A woman with pride, strength and humor, Lambert is a beautiful example of staying positive and overcoming hardships. Much of her work is reflective of what she has been through personally.
Lambert also writes about general societal issues such as gay marriage, empowerment of women and body image.
First-year Allison Shultz is excited to see one of her role models.
"I listen to her music all the time and I can't believe she'll be here at DePauw," Shultz said.
The story of Lambert's career is unique. One year ago, the now 24-year-old Seattle native was sweaty from dragging beer kegs around the bar where she worked.
One afternoon, she received an unexpected phone call from a friend who had connections to Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. The friend sent her the track to "Same Love" and told Lambert she had two hours to write a chorus. From there her story tells itself.
Recently, at the 2014 Grammy awards, Queen Latifah officiated a mass wedding for LGBTQ couples, while Macklemore, Ryan Lewis, Madonna and Mary Lambert performed.
Students around campus are excited for Lambert's performance.
"I can't wait to see Mary perform," said junior Reggie Webb.
First-year Kyle Winters is excited to hear her sing live.
"I love her work with Macklemore," said Winters.
Lambert's concert is a highly anticipated event, so be sure to get to Thompson Recital Hall before 7:00 p.m. Seating will be first come, first serve.