Meaning of 23 by Big Sean
In Big Sean's song "23," the overall theme revolves around the rapper's confidence, skill, and ability to surpass his competition. Through his clever wordplay and assertive delivery, Big Sean asserts his dominance in the rap game. The song presents a narrative of his rise to success and the challenges he has overcome along the way. While the lyrics may seem braggadocious at first glance, they also provide insights into deeper themes and perspectives.One standout lyric in the song is, "I'm very instrumental, to any instrumental." This line not only showcases Big Sean's clever wordplay, but also emphasizes the idea that he is a vital element within the rap industry. It suggests that his presence and contributions are significant, and without him, the music would lack something special. This theme of artistic self-worth and recognizing one's value can resonate with anyone striving for success in their respective fields.Another impactful lyric is, "You at the bottom, not even at Malcolm in the Middle." This line draws a comparison between Big Sean's superiority and the mediocrity of other rappers. By invoking the popular TV show "Malcolm in the Middle," he cleverly suggests that these rappers are not even worthy of being considered middle-tier. This concept of rising above mediocrity and positioning oneself as a leader is a recurring theme throughout the song.The lyric, "And the people show love like a bear hug," explores the significance of support from fans and the impact it has on an artist's success. It highlights the importance of having a loyal fan base who appreciates and embraces one's craft. Big Sean acknowledges this love and reciprocates it, promising to continue delivering great music and exceeding expectations. This theme of gratitude and reciprocity serves as a reminder to appreciate those who have helped you achieve your goals.The line, "Ain't no 'I' in team, but there's an 'I' in win," showcases Big Sean's individualism and determination to thrive. While he acknowledges the importance of teamwork, this lyric emphasizes that personal success ultimately relies on one's individual efforts. It encourages listeners to believe in themselves and take personal responsibility for their own victories. This theme of self-reliance and the power of individual action aligns with the overall message of the song.In the verse, "I'm from the mighty Motown, home sweet home, where I roam like a phone in an unknown zone," Big Sean pays homage to his roots while highlighting his journey from Detroit, famously known as Motown. The idea of roaming like a phone in an unknown zone signifies his exploration and willingness to step outside his comfort zone. This theme of embracing change, adapting to new surroundings, and embracing new opportunities resonates with the idea of growth and evolution in both art and life.Overall, Big Sean's "23" is more than just a show of bravado and confidence. Through its standout and impactful lyrics, the song explores themes of self-worth, overcoming adversity, the importance of support, individualism, and embracing change. It ultimately presents a narrative of this talented rapper's rise to success and the mindset required to transcend the competition. "23" serves as an embodiment of Big Sean's journey and an uplifting anthem for listeners who aspire to go after their dreams with the utmost dedication and determination.