Meaning of 4 Thangs by Big Sean

In Big Sean's song '4 Thangs', the overall theme revolves around the idea of identity and perception. The lyrics explore the discrepancies between how others perceive us and how we truly see ourselves. It delves into the notion of being labelled and the frustration that comes with not being seen for who we truly are.One standout lyric in the song is when Big Sean says, "She keep calling me babe, I said 'That's not my name'". This lyric speaks to the frustration of being misunderstood and not being recognized for one's true identity. It highlights the struggle of being constantly mislabeled by others and the desire for validation and acceptance.Another impactful lyric is when Freddie Gibbs raps, "And I just washed off the chicken, baby, that's not cocaine". This seemingly straightforward line takes an unexpected twist as it explores the concept of appearances versus reality. It challenges the perception people may have based on their judgment and assumptions.The line, "I walk in, I'm deckin' it, making an entrance, I know where the exit is", can be seen as a metaphor for knowing oneself and being self-assured. It emphasizes the importance of staying true to who you are, regardless of external opinions or judgments. This theme ties back to the overall idea of identity and not letting others determine how we should be perceived.Another lyric that adds depth to the song's themes is, "I give you the game, I don't play for the love of the game, ho, I play for the rings". This lyric touches on the concept of ambition and purpose. It suggests that the pursuit of success should be fueled by personal goals and aspirations, rather than being solely driven by external validation or fame.A thought-provoking lyric is when Gibbs raps, "Better Alex Trebek, I don't answer those questions, jeopardize how far we done came". This lyric challenges the idea of being questioned or judged based on one's past. It suggests that dwelling on past mistakes or allowing others to define our worth based on them is a hindrance to personal growth and progress.The song's recurring line, "Million dollars, million followers, ho, that's not the same", further elaborates on the theme of perception and the notion of superficial measurements of success. It implies that true worth is not based on material possessions or social media recognition but on personal growth, self-acceptance, and fulfillment.Overall, '4 Thangs' by Big Sean delves into the complexities of identity and perception. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, it challenges the listeners to question how they are perceived by others, and encourages them to embrace their true selves rather than conforming to societal expectations. The song underscores the importance of finding validation within oneself and not relying on external factors for self-worth.