Meaning of Stendo by Lil Baby

In Lil Baby's song "Stendo," the Atlanta rapper delves into themes of street life, resilience, and the pursuit of success. The track reflects on his upbringing, the challenges he faced growing up, and his determination to overcome them. While the song may appear straightforward on the surface, there are several standout lyrics that, when explored in depth, reveal unexpected and imaginative themes that contribute to the overall message of the song.One of the first lyrics that catches the attention is when Lil Baby raps, "Lean fuckin' with my kidney, but I'ma keep on sippin' yeah." On the surface, this line speaks to a common theme in hip-hop culture – the use of drugs. However, from a deeper perspective, this lyric could represent Lil Baby's ability to persevere through difficult times. The lean represents a hardship or challenge, and despite its negative impact on his health, he chooses to keep going. This could symbolize his resilience and the determination to overcome obstacles on his path to success.Another notable lyric is, "Fourteen with a bankroll, mask off." Here, Lil Baby reflects on his early encounter with the realities of street life. At such a young age, he had already amassed a significant amount of money, but the mention of the mask represents the need to conceal his identity and maintain a sense of anonymity. This speaks to the dangers and risks associated with the lifestyle he was forced to navigate, highlighting the sacrifices he had to make to survive and thrive.Additionally, the line, "Tommy gun boy, just for fun boy," paints a vivid picture of Lil Baby's past experiences with crime. While it may seem shocking or even disturbing, this lyric unearths a deeper theme of rebellion and defiance against a system that failed him. The use of a gun becomes a symbol of resistance, representing his refusal to be limited by his circumstances. It showcases his willingness to challenge authority and push against societal norms, even if it means resorting to criminal activities.Furthermore, the chorus's refrain of "Who the fuck wants smoke, nobody" reinforces the song's underlying theme of resilience. Lil Baby projects an air of confidence and fearlessness, asserting that he is not to be messed with. It suggests that those who doubt him or underestimate his abilities will eventually be proven wrong. This displays his unwavering belief in himself, despite the adversities he has faced.In summary, while "Stendo" by Lil Baby may seem like a typical rap song about street life and success, delving deeper into the standout lyrics reveals unexpected themes and messages. From overcoming challenges, resilience in the face of adversity, rebellion against societal norms, and unwavering self-belief, the song's themes intertwine to paint a picture of Lil Baby's journey towards success. Despite the hardships faced, he remains determined to make a name for himself and rise above his circumstances. "Stendo" serves as a testament to his strength and perseverance, offering a glimpse into the mindset of an artist on the path to greatness.