The American rapper's choice as grand final entertainment raised eyebrows when announced earlier this month.

Alan Jones, talk show host, social commentator and sports pundit (he coached the Wallabies) wanted to know how much Macklemore was getting paid and why the gig couldn't have gone to an Aussie. Fair enough, too.

But the football code's motivations became a little clearer over the weekend when it was announced that the Grammy Award-winner will perform the anthem with Mary Lambert and Eric Nally – timed to coincide with this country's survey for same-sex marriage.

One of the most memorable performances of 'Same Love' was at the 2014 Grammys where a number of queer (and straight) couples celebrated their vows to each other mid-song.

It's only natural that this performance on Sunday will encourage more than just NRL fans to tune in and see what Macklemore has planned for this statement of a performance, especially during such a significant time in Australia's history when it comes to equality.

His performance will also include his chart topping hits; Glorious, Thrift Shop, Can't Hold Us and Down Town.