Most of us have been to a concert in our lives. The roar of the crowd, the blinding lights and the bass powerful enough to rearrange your organs pull people back to their favorite venues for more live performances. This year alone, I've been to five concerts and I've loved the rush I felt from every single one. It's probably not the smartest way to spend money, but OH WELL!

Sue me.

But what happens when an artist decides to use their concerts (for which you paid big money) to push a political agenda? Is this really something that is okay to do? The answer is, "Hell yes!" Let's take a closer look, though.

Recently, on October 1, rapper and songwriter, Macklemore (famous for songs like "Thrift Shop" and "Can't Hold Us") performed in Sydney, Australia at ANZ Stadium. During this concert, he highlighted one particular song of his called "Same Love" (one of my favorite songs of his), which is about the acceptance and normalization of same-sex relationships. What's the big deal? Right now--right this second--Australia is holding a postal vote to see if same-sex marriage should be legalized. This means that from September through now, and until November 7, Australians can vote on whether or not they think the legal definition of marriage should include same-sex partnerships. The high tension at the polling booth has no doubt heightened the kick-back from people who feel a bit uncertain about Macklemore promoting his stance on stage in a foreign country during such a crucial and politically controversial time for Australia.

To those who think it's not okay for performers to express their political views during their shows, I have a little bit of my own insight to share with you. When you are a consumer of an artist, whether by listening to their songs on Spotify, buying their latest album or attending one of their concerts, you are exposing yourself to what they have to say. Musical artists like Macklemore often have endless thoughts to share about various matters (some of which may or may not resonate with you). These opinions form a part of their creative voices. In the same way, an artist's performance on stage is an extension of that creative voice because a concert brings the music to life through the ambience and atmosphere of the venue. So, an artist should feel free to play a politically relevant song. After all, you paid to see them share their talents, music and personality--political expression in these settings remains valid.

So yes, artists should have the right to share their political beliefs during a concert. It's not about persuading an impressionable crowd or seeming professional. It boils down to the finesse with which the artist can execute his/her agenda. Their ability to do so, in a catchy, melodic way is, after all, the foundation for their success

I say all of this because two years ago I saw Macklemore & Ryan Lewis at Target Field, here in Minneapolis, Minnesota. I was maybe in the fourth row for the crowd. His messages were powerful and compassionate. You could feel the warmth of the crowd when we all sang along to "Same Love." It didn't feel political or like propaganda. It just felt like I was watching an artist performing from the heart. That right there makes every penny spent on that ticket completely worth it.