Meaning of 100 Keys by Big Sean

In Big Sean's song '100 Keys', the overall theme revolves around the pursuit of wealth and success in the face of adversity in a big city. The lyrics tell a story of individuals involved in the drug trade, pushing "100 keys" (referring to kilograms of drugs) to climb the economic ladder. While the lyrics may appear on the surface to glorify criminal activities, a closer examination reveals deeper underlying themes.One standout lyric in the song is when Rick Ross mentions, "The game a bitch, but at times she sweet like cantaloupe." This line carries a dual meaning. On one hand, it acknowledges the allure and temptation of the illegal lifestyle, as the game can be tempting but ultimately detrimental. This theme of allure and temptation ties back to the overarching theme of the song and highlights the trade-off individuals make in pursuit of wealth.In another line, Pusha T raps, "My gesundheit could make a whole city sneeze." This fascinating lyric takes on a metaphorical and imaginative meaning. It explores the power and influence that a single individual, involved in illicit activities, can have over an entire community. It suggests that their actions and choices reverberate through the city, impacting everyone around them. This theme delves into the domino effect of criminal activities and the consequences they have on the community.Additionally, the lyric, "Walked the mud jungle where they grinded out the leaves, so they swarm to my honeycomb, hideout for the bees," captures the idea of individuals seeking refuge or escape from their harsh realities. The "mud jungle" represents the streets where people struggle to survive and find ways to make a living. The "honeycomb" represents the drug trade, where individuals gather for a sense of belonging and financial stability. This theme explores the concept of finding solace in unconventional places and the lengths people go to find a better life in the midst of adversity.Furthermore, Big Sean's verse includes the lines, "Counting a hundred hundreds, more by more, Built this from the tile up, floor by floor." Here, he highlights the process of building wealth incrementally. This lyric emphasizes the patience and determination required to achieve success, even in illicit endeavors. It suggests that regardless of the legality of the means, hard work and perseverance are essential for moving up in life.Overall, '100 Keys' presents a multi-layered narrative that delves beyond the apparent glorification of illegal activities. The song explores the pursuit of wealth, the allure of the forbidden, the impact on the community, the search for escapism, and the importance of resilience and determination. While the lyrics may be controversial, they provide a thought-provoking examination of the choices individuals make in challenging circumstances and the complex consequences that follow.