Meaning of Philadelphia Born And Raised by Meek Mill

In the infectious song "Philadelphia Born And Raised" by Meek Mill, the overarching theme is a celebration of the artist's hometown, Philadelphia. The track pays homage to the roots and culture of the city that raised him. While the lyrics may initially seem straightforward, upon closer examination, they reveal deeper themes that evoke the spirit and essence of Philadelphia.One standout lyric is "South Philly where they made me, but North Philly where they raised me." This line represents the duality and influence of different neighborhoods on the artist's upbringing. It highlights how Meek Mill's experiences in both South and North Philadelphia shaped his character and artistic style. The theme here is the power of environment in shaping identity and personal growth.Another significant lyric is "From Wingohocking we make it hot like Da Bunny Do, Get it and run it Mark Ingram since I was 22." This verse captures the idea of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Wingohocking is a neighborhood in Philadelphia known for its challenges, and by comparing it to making things hot like Da Bunny Do (a reference to a popular Philadelphia radio personality), Meek Mill showcases the ability of individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds to rise above their circumstances. The mention of Mark Ingram, who overcame obstacles to become a successful NFL player, further underscores this theme of persistence and triumph against the odds.Furthermore, the line "Home of the Eagles trapping before the rapping, And the numbers is 10 for the birds Desean Jackson" highlights the close bond between the city's sports teams and its residents. It emphasizes the unity and pride that Philadelphians feel in supporting their teams. This theme of loyalty and camaraderie extends beyond sports, as it reflects the strong sense of community that exists in Philadelphia.The verse by Black Thought explores the struggles faced by the artist and his community. Lines such as "Times was harder than Bernard Hopkins" and "What up [?] you know I got that rocket in the tuck [?]" convey the toughness and resilience of Philadelphia residents in the face of adversity. The theme here is the resilience and strength of the people of Philadelphia to push through difficulties and create opportunities for themselves.Finally, the chorus, sung by Will Smith, repeats the phrase "Philadelphia born and raised" to punctuate the pride and love for their city felt by Meek Mill and other Philadelphians. Paired with the playful line "Follow me, I'm from Philly where they eat cheesesteaks," this chorus highlights one of Philadelphia's most famous symbols while also symbolizing the artist's invitation for others to experience the unique culture and spirit of the city.Overall, the song "Philadelphia Born And Raised" by Meek Mill celebrates the artist's hometown and pays homage to the power of environment, resilience, community, and pride. Through standout and thought-provoking lyrics, Meek Mill invites listeners to delve into the deeper themes that define the city of Philadelphia and its residents. The track serves as a love letter to the city and a testament to the strength and perseverance of its people.