Meaning of Always Strapped by Lil Wayne

The overall theme of Lil Wayne's song 'Always Strapped' revolves around the concept of being prepared and on guard at all times. The repeated phrase "Always strapped" refers to carrying a firearm for protection in the club and being ready to defend oneself. Beyond the literal interpretation, the song explores different aspects of power, success, and thriving amidst adversity.One standout lyric is "Niggas give me dap, bitches give me hugs, and since I'm paid." This line touches upon the themes of popularity and material wealth. Wayne emphasizes how his financial success has elevated his status, both with men who show him respect (dapping) and women who show affection (hugs). This speaks to the desire for recognition and affirmation that wealth can bring.Another significant line is "Strawberry paint, seats, vanilla pudding." This reference to the extravagance of Wayne's car highlights the theme of indulgence and luxury. The choice of colors and textures evokes a sense of richness and opulence. It suggests that Wayne's success allows him to indulge in lavish and unique experiences, reinforcing his status in the hip-hop industry.In the verse, Wayne raps, "I got it covered like a coke top." Here, he relates his ability to navigate through the drug trade, which commonly involves covering drugs with a bottle cap or similar object to conceal them. This lyric touches on the theme of resilience and adaptability. Wayne implies that he can handle any adversity with ease, much like he covers his tracks in the illicit industry.One of the more introspective lines comes from Birdman's verse: "I thought they knew, shawty, like father like son." This lyric explores the theme of legacy and the passing down of influence and power from one generation to another. Birdman, Lil Wayne's mentor and label founder, presents himself as a powerful figure, while acknowledging the significance of familial connections. The father-son dynamic implies a sense of responsibility and the continuation of a tradition.The chorus itself contains recurring themes of toughness, defensiveness, and reclaiming power. The phrase "Niggas be muggin' me, you know I'm muggin' back" reinforces the idea of retaliatory action in the face of perceived threats or disrespect. It represents a refusal to back down and a determination to maintain dominance in any situation.Overall, 'Always Strapped' explores various themes related to power, wealth, resilience, legacy, and maintaining control in a world where aggression and confrontation are prevalent. The lyrics paint a picture of a confident and unapologetic figure who has overcome obstacles and strategically positions himself for success. While the song's themes may highlight certain aspects of hip-hop culture that can be controversial, they provide an opportunity for listeners to appreciate the creative storytelling and imagination within Lil Wayne's work.