10% by Kaytranada Lyrics Meaning – Decoding the Anthemic Demand for Self-Worth
Lyrics
You keep on takin’ from me, I wonder where you went?
You keep on takin’ from me, but where’s my ten percent?
You keep on takin’ from me
Why you tryna lie for them?
Pretending who you are
But baby why even pretend?
You’re trying way too hard
Ego is not your friend
I only speak the truth
No, I’m not trying to offend
Why you tryna lie for them?
I wake up, it’s so good to be me
In the mirror, it’s good to see me
I don’t check for these other bitches
You can ask God, ’cause that’s my witness
You just don’t have a clue who to be
Look in your eyes, I see the envy
I don’t check for these other bitches
You can ask God, ’cause that’s my witness
Why you tryna lie for them?
Pretending who you are
But baby, why even pretend?
You’re trying way too hard
Ego is not your friend
I only speak the truth
No, I’m not trying to offend
Why you tryna lie for them?
You keep on takin’ from me, but where’s my ten percent?
You keep on takin’ from me, I wonder where you went?
You keep on takin’ from me, but where’s my ten percent?
You keep on takin’ from me
I’m a psycho
All the animal
Run my money to me
Don’t act like you didn’t know
You’ve been watered down, baby, I gotta keep it pure
Where’s my residuals?
You keep on takin’ from me, but where’s my ten percent?
You keep on takin’ from me, I wonder where you went?
You keep on takin’ from me, but where’s my ten percent?
You keep on takin’ from me
Why you tryna lie for them?
Pretending who you are
But baby, why even pretend?
You’re trying way too hard
Ego is not your friend
I only speak the truth
No I’m not trying to offend
Why you tryna lie for them?
In the pulsating world of upbeat rhythms and deep basslines, there emerges a song that transcends the obligatory head nod. Kaytranada’s ‘10%’ is not just a track to dance to; it’s an introspective voyage into the realms of reciprocity, identity, and self-assurance. Through infectious beats and Kali Uchis’ sultry voice, the song poses a question as old as time—where is my due?
The narrative woven within the crisp snares is a reflection on modern relationships, both personal and professional, where the lines often blur between giving and exploitation. This anthem delivers more than just a catchy hook, it’s a rallying cry for respect and recognition in a world that continually takes.
Dissecting the Demand for Reciprocity
In a rhythmically charged outcry, ‘You keep on takin’ from me, but where’s my ten percent?’ Kaytranada isn’t merely stating a financial grievance—it’s a metaphorical invoice for the emotional and creative capital incessantly drawn from an individual. The song confronts the imbalance in relationships, professional circles, or even within the music industry itself, where artists often see a disproportionate return on their artistic investment.
The lyrics define a clear boundary of self-respect and the necessity of claiming one’s worth. In our own lives, as we play the dual roles of contributor and beneficiary, ‘10%’ becomes more than a song; it’s a reminder to maintain a ledger of what we are owed, be it respect, credit, or love.
The Battle Against Inauthenticity
Kali Uchis’ alluring voice provokes, ‘Why you tryna lie for them? Pretending who you are.’ This illustrates the facade that people maintain to fit into societal expectations or to appease the superficial demands of peers. As an artist, Kaytranada is no stranger to the pressures of the music scene, which demands not just innovation, but a curated persona.
The fight against this inauthenticity is vividly portrayed as the singer beckons us to drop the act, to stop ‘trying way too hard.’ It’s an ode to authenticity and an indictment of the ego that often leads to a disingenuous existence. The track is a reminder to stand in one’s truth, no matter the external pressures to conform.
A Self-Love Anthem in Disguise
In a society that’s constantly vying for our attention and energies, ‘10%’ transforms into a self-love anthem. When Uchis sings, ‘In the mirror, it’s good to see me,’ it’s a moment of recognition and self-appreciation. Self-validation becomes key as we’re reminded of the importance of looking inward for approval rather than outward.
This track empowers listeners to prioritize their own worth over the fleeting or shallow validation offered by others. It’s a bold statement about inner strength and recognizing one’s own value without the need for external affirmation.
Memorable Lines that Define the Track
‘You just don’t have a clue who to be / Look in your eyes, I see the envy.’ These lines serve as a window into the soul of the song — a confrontation of those who undervalue others and yet are consumed by jealousy. It’s a patient acknowledgment of an all-too-common human paradox, where insecurity often masquerades as disdain or indifference.
The poetic weight of these lyrics shine through as they encapsulate the core of human relationships— the cyclic journey of comparison, the quest for uniqueness, and the silent wars we wage within. Each word is a meticulous choice, creating an enduring impact that resonates with the listener.
The Hidden Meaning Behind ‘Where’s My Residuals?’
It is with the line, ‘Where’s my residuals?’ that the song’s hidden depth exposes itself. More than just demanding what’s currently owed, the song touches on the long-term impact of one’s contributions. Residuals—a term commonly referring to ongoing compensation, especially within the entertainment industry—evokes the idea of legacy and enduring value.
When applied to personal or emotional investments, ‘10%’ questions not just the immediate reciprocation but the lasting acknowledgment of one’s input over time. Kaytranada and Uchis have crafted a layered phraseology, pushing the listener to ponder the ultimate worth and longevity of their contributions to relationships and their craft.
