Meaning of “First Person Shooter” by Drake (ft. J. Cole)
“First Person Shooter” by Drake featuring J. Cole explores themes of success, legacy, and rivalry in the rap industry. J. Cole and Drake address their positions in the rap game, asserting their dominance and reflecting on their journey and challenges.
The artists compare themselves to iconic figures and confront those who try to ignite feuds. Drake’s part talks about his affluence, experiences with women, and his status in the industry, whereas J. Cole emphasizes his significance in rap and his relationships with other artists.
The song balances boastful verses with introspective views on their career trajectory and external perceptions, providing a raw and competitive spirit intertwined with mature reflection.
A Detailed Explanation of the Lyrics
“First Person Shooter” allows Drake and J. Cole to traverse through various themes closely associated with their careers, public personas, and the hip-hop industry’s intricacies. Both artists, through their verses, present an introspective yet outwardly analytical perspective on their journey and present status in the rap industry.
J. Cole’s Perspective:
Industry Status: Cole begins by metaphorically placing himself and Drake at the pinnacle of the rap game, citing their works as parallel to the magnitude of the Super Bowl. He implies that their collaborations are colossal events within the industry.
Addressing Beef: Cole references the industry’s propensity to stir rivalries among artists, hinting at how words and actions are often dissected to craft narratives of discord. He adopts a nonchalant attitude towards these controversies while still highlighting that any direct contention will not be ignored.
Recognition and Legacy: There’s acknowledgment of his stature, being frequently categorized and debated alongside other significant figures in rap like Kendrick Lamar and Drake. He relates his current status to the legendary Muhammad Ali, symbolizing mastery, recognition, and perhaps struggles and controversies that come with fame.
Skill and Dominance: He underlines his rap proficiency and denotes his capability to alter the rap scene, hinting at his influential power within the industry.
Drake’s Perspective:
Affluence and Lifestyle: Drake’s verse illuminates his affluent lifestyle, mentioning his experiences with various women and his early success with luxury cars. He juxtaposes his current status with others in the industry, emphasizing the opulence and power he commands.
Technological Savvy: He highlights his adept use of technology, alluding to streaming and modern communication tools. His mention of “lime green” messages from Android users and criticisms about “taking pictures on a dog stream” (lower quality or outdated methodologies) could imply an emphasis on quality and staying ahead in the digital age.
Acknowledgement: Drake speaks to his frustrations about potentially not being acknowledged for his influence and impact on the industry. He uses vivid imagery of using a Grammy as a doorstop, signifying that awards and recognitions, although notable, might not always provide a true reflection of an artist’s impact and legacy.
Assertiveness and Control: He also asserts his financial and influential control in the industry, suggesting that if a publication (pub) was for sale, he could buy it outright. This might symbolize his ability to control narratives, showing both financial and influential prowess.
Comparison with Legends: Much like Cole, Drake isn’t afraid to place himself alongside legends, asserting that he’s “one away from Michael,” likely referencing Michael Jackson and suggesting he’s on the brink of equating or surpassing such iconic status.
Common Themes:
- Legacy: Both artists struggle with the concept of legacy, recognition, and placing in history. Their verses intertwine the notion of being at the top while still seeking validation and acknowledgment from the industry and fans.
- Authority: A prominent theme is the assertion of dominance and authority, not just in terms of success but also in influencing narratives, impacting the industry, and determining their paths irrespective of external pressures and narratives.
- Relationship with the Industry: They express their multifaceted relationships with the industry – a mix of control, defiance, and the continuous strive for recognition and respect amidst the chaos and misinterpretations that the industry might generate.
In essence, “First Person Shooter” delineates the artists’ introspections, their reflections on the industry, and their multifaceted journeys, encapsulating their trials, triumphs, and unwavering positions in the rap game.
When was “First Person Shooter” released?
On the 6th of October, 2023 as part of his eighth album, “For All the Dogs”.
