Meaning of Back Sellin’ Crack by ScHoolboy Q

The ScHoolboy Q song titled "Back Sellin' Crack" delves into the harsh realities of street life and the struggles faced by individuals involved in drug dealing and gang culture. The song explores themes such as violence, loyalty, survival, and the consequences of one's actions. Through powerful and thought-provoking lyrics, the artists paint a vivid picture of the circumstances surrounding their lives and the choices they make.One standout lyric in the song is spoken by Vince Staples in the first verse: "I done beat the brakes off niggas, shot the face off niggas." This lyric captures the brutal nature of the streets, showcasing the violence that is prevalent in these communities. It speaks to a sense of power and dominance, as the speaker claims to have physically harmed others to establish their reputation. This lyric develops the theme of violence in the song and highlights the harsh reality faced by these individuals.Another impactful lyric is found in the second verse by ScHoolboy Q: "Sunny LA, where the youngins don't think." This lyric reveals the lack of opportunities and guidance for the youth in these neighborhoods. It suggests that the environment breeds a cycle of violence and criminal activity, where young people are influenced by their surroundings and lack the guidance needed to make better decisions. This lyric develops the theme of the consequences of a life involved in drug dealing, hinting at the perpetuation of negative behaviors and the difficulty of escaping such a lifestyle.The chorus, delivered by Vince Staples, also contributes to the overall theme of the song. The line "Slave to the rhythm, shoot my master in his back" suggests a desire for freedom from the chains of their circumstances. The reference to shooting one's master symbolizes a rebellion against the oppressive nature of their environment. This lyric indicates a willingness to take risks and challenge the status quo, even if it means resorting to violence. It speaks to the theme of survival, as the individuals depicted in the song are willing to go to extreme lengths to break free from the limitations imposed upon them.Throughout the song, there is an underlying theme of loyalty and the lengths one will go to protect their own. The lines "Even mama bringin' drama, I don't trust no bitches" and "Risk felony time for threatening mine" demonstrate the importance of protecting those closest to them. This theme of loyalty highlights the twisted sense of family and community that exists in these environments, where trust is limited and alliances are constantly shifting.In addition to the primary themes discussed above, "Back Sellin' Crack" also touches on the concept of identity. The lyrics "House look like a gun range, room look like a gun store" allude to a sense of pride and identity wrapped up in the possession of firearms. This suggests that the individuals in this song find their self-worth and power through the ownership and use of weapons, further emphasizing the violent nature of their reality.Overall, "Back Sellin' Crack" presents a raw and unfiltered portrayal of the challenging circumstances faced by those involved in the drug trade. Through vivid and thought-provoking lyrics, the song explores themes of violence, loyalty, survival, and the consequences of one's actions. It offers a glimpse into a world where individuals are driven by a desperate search for power, freedom, and identity.