Meaning of 2pac & Biggie by Migos

In the fast-paced world of hip-hop, artists often find inspiration in the legacies of the greats that came before them. It is no different for the rap trio Migos, who released the song '2pac & Biggie' that pays tribute to two of the most iconic figures in rap history. But beneath the surface of this homage lies a complex tapestry of themes that explore the realities of street life and the pursuit of success. Let's delve into the lyrics and unpack the unexpected and imaginative themes embedded within.The opening lines, "I'm the next 2Pac and Biggie," set the tone for the song. It becomes immediately apparent that Migos aims to embody the legendary status of these rap icons. However, it's not just about the fame and recognition. The subsequent lines, "Scaled dope for 2Pac, pockets on Biggie," establish a connection between the drug game and these larger-than-life personalities. This theme is further extended with the line, "Pop a molly have you shaking like that nigga Diddy," invoking memories of parties and wild nights that were synonymous with the era in which 2Pac and Biggie rose to prominence.But the lyrics don't merely dwell on the superficial aspects of their influences. There is a clever wordplay at work with the line, "I got that Bobby Brown, but I ran out of Whitney." Here, the song explores the tragedy that befell Whitney Houston and how it impacted Bobby Brown. It suggests that even amidst success, there are personal demons and outside forces that can bring about downfall. This theme of duality and consequence is further developed with the lines, "Still got some Brittney, got a lot of Lindsey / Citgo on 48, come get this Julius Erving." The mention of celebrities with tumultuous lives, Britney Spears and Lindsey Lohan, contrasted with a basketball reference, highlights the struggle between fame and personal stability.Continuing to draw inspiration from famous figures, the line, "Smoking Larry Kush and we call it Eddie Murphy," blends the worlds of cannabis and comedy. In a surprising twist, this lyric suggests that even laughter and joy can be found in the darkest corners of society. But Migos also recognizes the importance of protecting themselves and their circle. They proudly proclaim, "And I keep my circle tight, like a virgin," emphasizing the need for loyalty and trust amidst an industry known for its fickleness.The lyrics take a nostalgic turn with the line, "Black and grey old Cutlass, George Gervin," evoking an image of a bygone era. This theme of nostalgia is expanded upon with the line, "Fuck your mama make you mad, call me Melvin." Here, Migos taps into the universal experience of rebellion against authority figures. The mention of Elvis and Scarface further reinforces the idea of pursuing power and leaving a lasting mark on the world.While the song pays homage to the past, it also addresses the harsh realities of the present. It speaks to the struggle and hustle of those living on the streets, as seen in the repetition of the line, "I know junkies in the street selling DVDs, Mp3's." This lyric brings attention to the underground economy that exists in impoverished communities, highlighting the resourcefulness and entrepreneurial spirit that often goes unnoticed.The song's themes intertwine with lines such as, "Plug across the water, I'm taking a vacation," and "Moving all these drugs, CVS should gon' and hire me." These lyrics showcase the precarious dance between illegal activities and the pursuit of happiness. The mention of Ricky Bobby and Sylvester Stallone adds a layer of bravado, suggesting that Migos sees themselves as the heroes of their own story.Overall, '2pac & Biggie' by Migos is an intricate exploration of the pursuit of success, the duality of fame, and the harsh realities of street life. It is a lyrical tapestry that weaves together unexpected themes, drawing inspiration from the legacies of rap legends while reflecting on the complexities and struggles of contemporary society.