Meaning of Twenty-four Eight by Big Sean

In the song "Twenty-four Eight" by Big Sean, featuring The Game, there is a deep exploration of themes such as loss, greatness, and the impact of iconic figures in basketball. The song serves as a tribute to the late Kobe Bryant and his legacy, but it also delves into the struggles and complexities of achieving greatness. Through powerful lyrics, the artists evoke emotions and invite listeners to reflect on the challenges that come with pursuing excellence.One of the standout lyrics in the song is when The Game raps, "Lost a legend but Vanessa lost a husband in the dark." This line not only acknowledges the profound loss experienced by Kobe's wife, Vanessa, but it also highlights the often unseen sacrifices made by those closest to iconic figures. The theme of loss is further developed as Big Sean declares, "Fuck twenty-four seven, I'm goin' twenty-four eight." Here, he suggests that he is willing to go above and beyond the standard notion of working around the clock, emphasizing the relentless drive required to achieve greatness.The line, "That's Magic, and he know what it took to be great," introduces the concept of magic. Magic Johnson, another legendary basketball player, is referenced here as a symbol of greatness. The connection between the various basketball icons serves to emphasize the dedication, skill, and sacrifice required to reach the highest levels of success. Moreover, it implies that these athletes possess an almost mystical quality that distinguishes them from others.Another powerful lyric in the song is when The Game says, "I was courtside when you scored 60, now you in heaven with my nigga from the 60s." This line highlights the interconnectedness of the basketball and hip-hop communities. It suggests that Kobe Bryant's impact extended beyond the sports world and resonated deeply with The Game and others in the music industry. This theme of cultural influence and overlap further strengthens the bond between these two artistic spheres.The lyrics "Kobe with the 'fro, Kobe with the lineup" and "Torn Achilles limpin' to the free throw line" provide a visual representation of Kobe's relentless drive and determination. The themes of resilience and perseverance shine through as these lines depict moments when Kobe overcame physical challenges to continue playing at the highest level. They reinforce the idea that becoming great often involves pushing through pain and setbacks.The mention of Shaq in the lyric, "My favorite moment seein' you jumpin' in Shaq's arms," presents a touching moment of camaraderie and friendship between two basketball legends. It showcases the human side of greatness, demonstrating that even the most accomplished individuals rely on support and close relationships to thrive. This theme highlights the significance of community and shared experiences in the pursuit of excellence.In the closing lines, The Game asks, "What you do when people die and God ain't sending them back?" Here, the theme of mortality and the painful reality of loss are confronted head-on. It prompts listeners to reflect on the greater purpose of life and the legacy that individuals leave behind. This lyric invites introspection and encourages the audience to question and find meaning in the face of mortality.Overall, "Twenty-four Eight" is a song that explores themes of loss, greatness, and the profound impact of basketball icons. Through vivid and heartfelt lyrics, Big Sean and The Game paint a powerful picture of the challenges and sacrifices involved in achieving greatness. The song commemorates Kobe Bryant's legacy while emphasizing the universal lessons and emotions tied to the pursuit of excellence. It invites listeners to reflect on their own aspirations and the importance of leaving a lasting mark on the world.