“Under Ground Kings” - lyrics and meaning

[Verse 1]

Bridge over troubled water, ice in my muddy water

Rich off a mixtape, got rich off a mixtape

Probably shouldn't be driving, it just got so much harder

Can't even see straight, I can't even see straight

Oh, f_ck with me, I buy the shots

Live a little, cause  die a lot, and lie a lot

But I'm the truth that's right I f_cking said it

The living proof that you ain't gotta die to get to heaven

You Girl, you right there, you look like you like this sh_t

How'd I know, how'd I know? That's me on some psychic sh_t

I could tell a lie if you asking me my where-abouts

But I might talk that real if you ask me what I care about

Rappin' b_tches, rappin' b_tches b_tches

And rappin' rappin' an' b_tches until all of us switches

I swear, it's been two years since somebody ask me who I was

I'm the greatest, man, I said that before I knew I was

That's whats important, what really happened before this

When me and my crew was all about this rapper from New Orleans

Singing "walking like a man, finger on the trigger

I got money in my pocket, I'm a uptown , ah"

With fame on my mind, my girl on my nerves

I was pushing myself to get something that I deserve

That was back in the days, Acura days

I was a cold dude, I'm getting back to my ways [Hook]

People always ask how I got my nice things

Take my crown to the grave, I'm an underground king

I bet we can make tonight the greatest story ever told

Cause I'm down to spend whatever, lately I've been on a roll

And I do it for the city, cause you know the city love a 

Do it for the city, cause you know the city love a 

Do it for the city, cause you know the city love a 

Do it for the city, (UGK f_ck these other ) [Verse 2]

Sometimes I need that romance, sometimes I need that pole dance

Sometimes I need that stripper thats gon' tell me that she don't dance

Tell me lies, make it sound good, make it sound good

Do me like the women from my town would

Leather with that woodgrain, Persian rugs on wood floors

Talking all them good things, that's all I'm really good for

Memphis Tennessee no, see I start to go deep back

In Ridge Crest with my seat back with Yo Gotti and E-Mack

And these  got them diamonds glowing in they mouth

And they rockin' furs like its snowing in the south

And every pretty girl tell me that's the sh_t that she like

So why am I a classic, this is who I'm trying to be like

So I drop out, lessons I was taught are quick to fade

As soon I realize that turnin' papers in won't get me paid

If I don't nothing I'mma ball

I'm countin all day like a clock on the wall

Yeah I need that, making major changes to the life I'm living

I had no choice, I had to prove I made the right decision

That was back in the days, Acura days

I was a cold dude, I'm getting back to my ways

Introduction:

In this blog article, we delve into the rich and layered lyrics of Drake's hit song "Under Ground Kings" from her album. We will begin by exploring the overt meaning of the song and then provide a creative Straussian analysis that reveals an unexpected comparison between the story and themes in the song and an oft-overlooked TV show, "The Leftovers." By examining various interpretive lenses, we aim to uncover hidden symbolism, alternative perspectives, and surprising influences behind Drake's artistic masterpiece.

Verse 1:

The opening lines of "Under Ground Kings" provide a glimpse into the contradictions and complexities of Drake's life. "Bridge over troubled water, ice in my muddy water, rich off a mixtape" juxtaposes notions of strength and vulnerability, success and struggle. This duality perhaps symbolizes Drake's own journey from adversity to prosperity. His mention of a mixtape serves as a nod to his humble beginnings and his ability to rise to fame through his artistry and creativity.

The following lines paint a picture of a conflicted individual grappling with personal challenges. Drake alludes to impaired judgment and the difficulty he faces, possibly indicating the pressures of maintaining his success. He recognizes the existence of falsehood and deception around him, proclaiming himself as the "truth." This proclamation is reminiscent of the existential search for meaning and authenticity found in "The Leftovers."

Furthermore, Drake's reference to "rappin' b_tches" showcases his domination of the rap industry. The repetition of the phrase "rappin' b_tches" suggests a transformative power within his music, potentially drawing inspiration from the narrative of characters who undergo profound shifts in "The Leftovers."

The verse takes an unexpected turn as Drake reminisces about his formative years. He references lyrics from the New Orleans rapper Lil Wayne's song, "Walking like a man, finger on the trigger." This comparison may imply Drake's identification with Lil Wayne, their shared experiences as artists, and the influence Lil Wayne had on Drake's musical journey.

The hook further encapsulates Drake's rise to success, portraying him as an "underground king" who has achieved greatness against all odds. The repetition of the line "Do it for the city, cause you know the city love a " signifies Drake's undying loyalty to his hometown and the overwhelming support he receives from his fans.

Verse 2:

The second verse offers glimpses into Drake's longing for both emotional connection and superficial indulgence. He expresses the desire for romantic sentiments and pole dancing, symbolizing the dual nature of his desires. This ambivalence aligns intriguingly with the complex characters in "The Leftovers," showcasing their constant quest for meaning and emotional fulfillment.

Drake's mention of Memphis, Tennessee, explores themes of identity and authenticity. He highlights the allure of materialism and posits himself as a classic figure to emulate. This echoes the struggles of the characters in "The Leftovers" as they grapple with existential questions and search for a sense of purpose in a chaotic world.

The verse then offers an insight into Drake's decision to persevere through personal transformation. He acknowledges the need for change and a departure from the expected path. This echoes the exploration of personal growth and evolution seen throughout "The Leftovers," as characters strive to redefine themselves amidst existential crises.

Conclusion:

Through a Straussian analysis, we have unveiled hidden layers of meaning within Drake's "Under Ground Kings" and drawn unexpected parallels to the TV show "The Leftovers." By exploring the song's overt lyrics and applying alternative interpretive frameworks, we have unearthed themes of personal growth, authenticity, and the pursuit of meaning. Drake's journey from adversity to success mirrors the transformative and thought-provoking narratives in "The Leftovers." Ultimately, "Under Ground Kings" stands as a testament to Drake's ability to craft music that speaks to universal human experiences and resonates with audiences on a profound level.