Meaning of It Can’t Be by Jack Harlow

The Jack Harlow song titled "It Can't Be" explores the idea of success and the underlying reasons behind it. The overall theme of the song centers around the disbelief and confusion that arises when trying to understand the factors contributing to one's success. Harlow expresses that it cannot simply be attributed to external factors like appearance, talent, or material possessions. Instead, through his introspective lyrics, he delves into various aspects of his life, relationships, and personal growth to find answers.One standout lyric that develops the theme is, "It must be my skin, I can't think of any other reason I win." This line presents the notion that external appearance, specifically skin color, might play a role in his success. It touches on the idea of systemic inequalities and how they can impact one's journey to success. Harlow suggests that it could be a factor but ultimately finds it hard to believe that his skin color alone is responsible for his achievements.Another important lyric in the song is, "It can't be the way that I stuck with the same friends." Here, Harlow reflects on the significance of the meaningful relationships he has maintained throughout his journey. He explores the idea that loyalty, support, and camaraderie contribute to his success. This lyric highlights the importance of genuine connections and emphasizes the strength that comes from surrounding oneself with a reliable support system.The line, "It can't be the swag I got when I walk in," adds an intriguing element to the song's theme. It suggests that confidence and self-assuredness can play a role in achieving success. Harlow implies that the way he carries himself, the aura he exudes when entering a room, may contribute to his achievements. This theme suggests the power of self-belief and the impact it can have on how others perceive and respond to us.Furthermore, Harlow explores the idea that personal growth and individual choices are pivotal in the pursuit of success. He acknowledges that it cannot simply be the result of talent or luck. Lyrics such as, "It can't be the thought I put into every choice," and "It can't be the downtime with my boys," illustrate the dedication and intention behind his actions. Harlow recognizes the significant effort he has put into his work and the conscious decisions he has made, underscoring the idea that success often arises from hard work, discipline, and thoughtful decision-making.Throughout the song, Harlow also emphasizes the influences and inspiration he draws from the artists he admires. Lyrics like, "It can't be the Tribe and the Biggie and the Nas" and "The Outkast and the Missy in my iPod," allude to the impact that music and artists have had on his journey. He suggests that his love and appreciation for different genres and artists have shaped his style and approach to his craft. This theme underscores the importance of mentorship and the influence of others in one's pursuit of success.In conclusion, "It Can't Be" by Jack Harlow addresses the complex nature of success while challenging conventional notions about its causes. Through introspective lyrics, Harlow explores themes such as the impact of external factors, the significance of genuine relationships, the power of self-belief, the role of personal growth and choices, and the influence of artists who inspire him. This song prompts listeners to reflect on the multifaceted nature of success and the factors that may contribute to their own journeys.