Meaning of This Is How We Do It by Meek Mill

In Meek Mill's song "This Is How We Do It," the overall theme revolves around the gritty lifestyle of individuals hustling to survive and succeed in the streets. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the challenges and triumphs faced in a world where money, power, and survival are the driving forces. While the song may initially seem straightforward, upon closer examination, several standout lyrics reveal deeper underlying themes that help to develop the overall message.One of the standout lyrics in the song is, "First you find a youngin that can run and it can move quick. See what he can grab then front him that right after two flips." This lyric illustrates the theme of mentorship and guidance within the street hustle. It suggests that in order to succeed, one must find and nurture young individuals who possess the necessary skills and ambition. The emphasis on quickness and agility also alludes to the fast-paced and cutthroat nature of survival in the streets.Another notable lyric is, "Cool then, right before you know it you be movin'. Keep it to the [?] you gon' keep the fiends groovin'. Make sure you can keep a nect that can keep them things movin'. Cause shit these niggas selling it be loosin' prove it." This lyric highlights the importance of continuously adapting and staying ahead of the game. It suggests that to maintain success and customer loyalty, one must constantly innovate and deliver a superior product or service. The mention of "keeping the fiends groovin'" adds a creative twist to the theme, implying that the hustle becomes an addictive and irresistible rhythm to those involved.Moving forward, Beanie Sigel's verse introduces another powerful lyric: "The way I hold the fifth so steadily. Shit make a nigga lose his memory." This lyric delves into the theme of the psychological toll that the street lifestyle can take on an individual. It suggests that the constant need to be on guard and ready for any threat can drive one to a state of constant anxiety and paranoia. The mention of losing memory hints at the possibility of traumatic events leading to selective forgetfulness as a coping mechanism.Lastly, Mel Love's verse contributes to the song's overall theme with a lyric stating, "I said I grind now to shine later. Trapping tying to get this paper. I got poor puppeteer. Steer niggas escalator." This lyric explores the theme of ambition and the pursuit of financial success. It highlights the willingness to endure the hardships of the grind for the promise of a brighter future. The mention of a "poor puppeteer" suggests that those involved in the street hustle may feel controlled by external circumstances, but they strive to take control and steer their own destinies toward financial freedom.In conclusion, Meek Mill's "This Is How We Do It" portrays the harsh reality of street life and the unwavering desire for success amidst adversity. Through various standout lyrics, the song explores themes of mentorship, adaptability, psychological toll, and ambition. These unexpected and imaginative themes add depth to the overall narrative and shed light on the complexities of the street hustle. Ultimately, the song serves as a reminder that survival and success often come at a steep cost, but for those who embody the hustle, it remains an inescapable way of life.