Meaning of What About Your Friends (extended Remix) by OutKast

OutKast's song "What About Your Friends (extended Remix)" is a powerful anthem addressing the dynamics of friendships and the challenges that come with them. Throughout the song, the artists explore various themes that delve into the complexities of relationships, trust, and personal growth. Each lyric exposes a deeper layer of these themes, offering unexpected insights into the song's overall message.The song opens with the question, "What about your friends?" This sets the tone for the exploration of friendship and raises the important question of loyalty and dependability. It invites us to reflect on the people in our lives and how they might impact our journey. The artists prompt us to consider whether our friends will stand their ground or let us down when faced with adversity.T-Boz's verse introduces the struggle of navigating through life's challenges and the impact they have on personal relationships. She explains that sometimes her vision becomes hazy, making it difficult to discern who to trust. This speaks to the ambiguity that often arises, where some friends may only be present when personal gain is involved. It highlights how trust can be a valuable commodity and how it is important to differentiate between genuine friends and those with ulterior motives.The chorus is particularly powerful as it emphasizes the potential disappointment and betrayal that can arise from friendships. It raises questions about whether friends will remain loyal or succumb to questionable behavior. This section aims to push listeners to evaluate their own friendships, encouraging them to consider whether their friends are truly trustworthy or if their loyalty is conditional.In Left Eye's verse, she introduces the idea of self-love as a driving force behind friendship dynamics. She explores the notion that jealousy and self-hate can lead to the formation of enemies out of our closest companions. This unexpected theme challenges us to reflect on the possibility of friends becoming adversaries, as their own insecurities can impact how they perceive and interact with us.In T-Boz's second verse, she delves into the growth and development that occurs within friendships over time. She reveals that she has learned to become smarter and more discerning as she navigates through life's challenges. This suggests that friendship is a dynamic process that requires personal growth and the ability to make difficult choices. It delves into the importance of choosing true friends, who will remain by your side through thick and thin.The third verse, performed by Andre 3000 and Big Boi, delves into the intricacies of friendship from a male perspective. They emphasize the need for genuine friends who will stick around even when tempted or pressured by external factors. This section explores the idea of loyalty being tested and how true friends will withstand these tests, remaining supportive and dependable. It touches on the theme of loyalty being a foundational aspect of lasting friendships.Left Eye's final verse reiterates the self-awareness and reflection that is necessary within friendships. She acknowledges her own role in the formation of enemies, suggesting that self-examination is a crucial aspect of maintaining healthy relationships. This lyric encourages listeners to evaluate their own actions and behaviors within their friendships, understanding that personal growth is essential for maintaining trust and loyalty.In conclusion, OutKast's "What About Your Friends (extended Remix)" presents a multifaceted exploration of friendship dynamics. Through various lyrical themes, the song highlights the complexities of trust, growth, and self-awareness. It prompts listeners to evaluate their own friendships and consider the qualities that define true friendship. Ultimately, the song emphasizes the importance of dependable and loyal friends who will stand their ground through the ups and downs of life.