Meaning of Co-sign by Van Halen

In the world of music, artists often strive for the validation and recognition of their peers and industry heavyweights. The Van Halen song titled "Co-sign" delves into this universal desire, exploring the notion that without the endorsement and cosigns of esteemed figures like Jay-Z, Puff Daddy, Dr. Dre, and J-Prince, an artist is considered less than hot.The chorus repeatedly hammers home the idea that if these key individuals don't cosign a particular artist, they are automatically excluded from the realm of being "hot." This theme of validation runs deep throughout the song, highlighting the importance placed on these cosigns and the impact they have on an artist's career trajectory.One standout lyric in the song is, "Yeah, handlin' them 700 horses, Westside, dual exhaustses, Fresh off the block, Delta Forces, Never run, never forfeit, I talk it." This lyric touches on themes of perseverance and authenticity. It emphasizes the artist's dedication to their craft and their refusal to compromise their values. The mention of "Delta Forces" paints a picture of someone who is always ready for action, never backing down from a challenge. It speaks to the artist's resilience, showcasing their unwavering commitment to success.Another powerful lyric from the song is, "I went from label to label, Said I wasn't able, Chris Lighty asked why I don't rhyme like they do? 'If you made a song like this, I will pay you'." This lyric delves into the concept of artistic integrity and staying true to oneself. It raises the question of whether an artist should conform to industry norms and trends in order to gain recognition. The artist's refusal to compromise their artistic vision is a testament to their authenticity and self-belief. It challenges the notion that success should only come through conforming to predetermined standards, urging artists to stay true to their unique style and voice.The line, "One of you's feel different bet a ki, stupid, Sicker than yo' average" brings forth themes of individuality and pushing boundaries. It suggests that the artists are not afraid to assert their own distinctiveness and stand out from the crowd. The mention of being "sicker than your average" implies a level of lyricism and skill that surpasses the norm. It serves as a reminder that true greatness often lies in defying expectations and charting one's own path.Furthermore, the lyric, "The Lord of the Rings, Truth what I bring, Born and raised, County of Kings, Hustlers, G's, recognizin' my thing" speaks to the artist's sense of identity and rootedness in their upbringing. It showcases their pride in their hometown, the County of Kings, and their ability to resonate with hustlers and street-savvy individuals. This particular lyric suggests that true recognition often comes from those who understand and appreciate the artist's background and authenticity.The overarching theme of the song revolves around the desire for validation and the transformative power of cosigns from influential figures. However, the stand-out lyrics in the song allow for an exploration of additional themes such as perseverance, authenticity, artistic integrity, individuality, and hometown pride. These themes add depth and complexity to the narrative, encouraging artists and listeners alike to ponder the true value of validation and the importance of staying true to oneself in the pursuit of success.