Meaning of WATERBOYZ by J. Cole

In the J. Cole song titled 'WATERBOYZ', the overall theme centers around the pursuit of success and the challenges one faces along the way. The lyrics delve into different aspects of life, including money, fame, and personal struggles. Through vivid imagery and clever wordplay, the song explores the complexities of the journey towards achieving one's goals.One standout lyric in the song is, "Most likely to succeed, most likely to smoke weed." This line addresses the stereotype that success and drug use are mutually exclusive. It challenges this notion and suggests that success does not always conform to society's expectations. The theme that emerges from this lyric is the idea that individuals define success for themselves and should not be confined to societal norms.Another impactful lyric states, "These n***as look rich but they broke, got me playin' poor. Please don't get it fucked up from this homeless aesthetic." This line shines a spotlight on the image-consciousness prevalent in society. It explores the theme of appearances versus reality, highlighting the discrepancy between how others perceive someone and their actual financial situation. This theme serves as a reminder to not judge others based solely on outward appearances.The lyric, "I been in the Taurus, I been in the Jeep, I been in the Crown Vic and the Mercury," paints a picture of the artist's journey through different modes of transportation. This imagery symbolizes the different stages and challenges one encounters on the road to success. The theme of resilience and adaptability emerges, suggesting that setbacks and changes along the way are inevitable. The artist's ability to navigate through different circumstances and maintain their drive is what ultimately leads to their success.Additionally, the line, "Waterboy, hustle 'til the whole world drownin', and grandmama got found at the water fountain," introduces the theme of family and the influence of personal history. The reference to the artist's grandmother represents the support and inspiration they draw from their family lineage. The use of the "waterboy" metaphor underscores the artist's determination to rise above adversity and succeed despite the challenges faced. The theme of resilience, hard work, and honoring family ties emerges from this lyric.Each of these standout lyrics contributes to the overall theme of the song, emphasizing the artist's determination to succeed on their own terms. The song tackles societal expectations, the challenges of maintaining one's identity, and the importance of resilience and family support. Through imaginative storytelling and thought-provoking lyrics, J. Cole invites listeners to reflect on their own journey towards success and the values that drive them.