Meaning of I Get Up by J. Cole

In J. Cole's song "I Get Up," the overarching theme is one of resilience and determination. The song opens with the artist waking up early in the morning, receiving calls from women who are interested in him. However, Cole is focused on more important things, such as his mother's healthcare and his own financial well-being. This sets the tone for the rest of the song – a personal reflection on the struggles he faces and his determination to overcome them.One standout lyric in the song is "A Fresh Prince, but yo my city ain't no Bel-Air." This line speaks to the artist's experience growing up in an urban environment, where crime and poverty are prevalent. The theme here is the stark contrast between the glamorous image portrayed by the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and the harsh realities of Cole's own upbringing. Despite this, he remains determined to find success and rise above his circumstances.Another powerful lyric in the song is "Paint a picture to show the deaf what it's like to listen, and speak the words and tell a blind man what he's missing." This lyric delves into the concept of empathy and the power of art to communicate experiences to those who may not have directly lived through them. The theme here is the artist's desire to use his music as a platform to shed light on the struggles and injustices faced by marginalized communities.The line "Lifestyle of the young, black and reckless, a generation of niggas strapped and asking questions like: 'Tell me why I ain't got shit?'" explores the theme of systemic racism and inequality. Cole highlights the frustration felt by many young black individuals who, despite their efforts, find themselves trapped in a cycle of poverty and struggle. Through this lyric, the artist questions why the system continues to work against him and his community.Throughout the song, Cole emphasizes the importance of family and community. He mentions his mother several times and expresses his desire to provide for her. This theme of family ties back to the overarching theme of resilience, as he finds motivation in his loved ones to keep pushing forward.Overall, "I Get Up" is a powerful song that addresses various themes including resilience, inequality, empathy, and family. Through clever and thought-provoking lyrics, J. Cole paints a vivid picture of his struggles and his determination to overcome them. The song serves as a testament to the artist's resilience and his commitment to using his platform to shed light on the injustices and challenges faced by many.