Meaning of Higher by DJ Khaled

In DJ Khaled's song "Higher," featuring John Legend and the late Nipsey Hussle, the overall theme revolves around resilience, faith, and rising above adversity. The lyrics delve into personal experiences and stories that amplify this theme, evoking emotions of triumph and hope. Let's take a closer look at some standout lyrics that contribute to these underlying themes.The song begins with John Legend effortlessly crooning the powerful chorus, "Oh, you keep taking me higher and higher, but don't you know that the devil is a liar?" This line sets the tone for the entire song, underscoring the idea of overcoming obstacles and refusing to be dragged down by negativity or self-doubt. It emphasizes the resilience and determination to keep pushing forward, regardless of the challenges faced. The devil, symbolizing the forces that try to bring us down, is countered by the continuous ascent to higher levels of success and personal growth.Nipsey Hussle's verse provides a deeply personal narrative that explores his family's journey and the pivotal influence of his loved ones. In the line, "My granny 88, she had my uncle and then a miscarriage back-to-back every year for like ten," we witness the strength and perseverance of his grandmother. The theme of resilience arises as she endures heartbreak and loss but continues to keep moving forward. It highlights the power of resilience in the face of adversity and the ability to find hope even in the darkest of times.Continuing with his verse, Nipsey Hussle shares the story of his father's journey from Africa to the United States, underscoring the sacrifices made for future generations. The lyric, "Pops turned 60, he proud what we done in one generation, he came from Africa young," showcases the theme of intergenerational progress. It highlights the idea that the hard work and sacrifices of previous generations lay the foundation for success and growth.Another fascinating aspect of this song is the connection between Los Angeles, love, and the names Nipsey Hussle and Boog. As Nipsey states, "Los Angeles love kinda of like Hussle and Boog," we witness a beautiful representation of unity and community. The unexpected theme explored here is the power of unity in the face of adversity. It demonstrates how individuals can come together to overcome challenges collectively, utilizing their collective strength and resilience to rise above.Later in the song, Nipsey reflects on his children, Mani and Kross, and their impact on his perspective. He says, "Mani turned ten, Kross turned two, starting to see this life shit from a bird's view." This lyric touches on the theme of growth and the evolution of one's perspective. It represents a transition from the narrow focus of immediate concerns to a broader understanding of life, with its myriad complexities and opportunities.The significance of faith also emerges in Nipsey's verse as he mentions dancing with the devil and testing his faith. The line, "I was thinkin' chess moves, but it was God's grace," reveals the theme of spiritual guidance and the acknowledgment of a higher power. It underscores the belief that obstacles and challenges are part of a divine plan, ultimately leading to growth and progress.Throughout the song, Nipsey Hussle reflects on the realities of living in South Central, a high-crime area. He tackles issues such as homicide, hate, and gang violence, emphasizing the persistent struggle for a safe and prosperous environment. Expanding on this theme, "Higher" acknowledges that adversity may be internal, external, or systemic. However, it also conveys the resilience to rise above these challenges and create change.In "Higher," DJ Khaled, John Legend, and Nipsey Hussle combine their talents to build a narrative of triumph, faith, and resilience. The standout lyrics explored above beautifully converge to reinforce the overarching theme throughout the song. From overcoming personal adversities to celebrating the strength of community, "Higher" serves as a reminder of the human spirit's capacity to soar above even the most challenging circumstances.