Meaning of Brains on the Basquiat by Westside Gunn

In the mesmerizing track "Brains on the Basquiat" by Westside Gunn, the artist delves into a gritty narrative that portrays the hardships and triumphs of navigating the streets. The song combines vivid storytelling with thought-provoking lyrics to paint a picture that explores several intertwined themes. Within this sonic tapestry, there are multiple standout lyrics that contribute to the development of these themes, unveiling unexpected and imaginative interpretations that ultimately tie back to the overarching theme of the song.At its core, "Brains on the Basquiat" captures the duality of life in the underworld. The first verse opens with Westside Gunn immersing us in his past, highlighting a stark evolution from his humble beginnings. The line "Same nigga used to rock Fed tans and Timberlands" not only illustrates his past attire but also signifies the transformation from a street-level hustler to a respected figure. This theme of growth and progression continues as he mentions being "Respected by brick-movers and shell-busters, Nicer than everybody on the last three XXL covers." Here, Westside Gunn emphasizes the reward of his relentless hustle and his status among his peers.Moving further into the narrative, the artist intertwines the motifs of violence and material wealth. In the line "Shootouts in Dewey Park, left his brains on the swing," Westside Gunn paints a harrowing image, emphasizing the brutal reality of his environment. The juxtaposition of violence against the innocent backdrop of a park swing speaks to the brutality of inner-city life. This theme follows into the next line where the artist mentions the Kel-Tec, a type of firearm, "hangin' out the Corvette, shot his whole block." The use of specific imagery intensifies the narrative, evoking feelings of danger, chaos, and power.Additionally, Westside Gunn incorporates subtle references to the world of art and fashion, providing a creative twist to his storytelling. The line "Mix the champagne with the dark, My brain way smart, Balmains, the suede Fieg Clarks" alludes to his refined taste and appreciation for luxury fashion. This unexpected inclusion ties into the greater theme of breaking stereotypes, showcasing that even those involved in illicit activities can possess an eye for style. It challenges preconceived notions and subtly suggests a layered complexity within individuals.Furthermore, the artist taps into his lyrical prowess, asserting his dominance and authority within the rap industry. The line "Fuck nigga, we aim and bang toast, I snuffed ya favorite rapper, his little angel chains broke, nigga" injects a sense of boldness, confidence, and bravado into the song. By claiming to have physically confronted and defeated a respected rapper, Westside Gunn positions himself as a force to be reckoned with. This theme builds upon the idea of rising from the streets to claim one's rightful place in the rap industry, channeling the energy of success into his art.Lastly, the chorus of the song delves into the concept of money and its corrupting influence. Westside Gunn confronts those who boast about their supposed wealth while remaining economically disempowered, asserting his own financial victory by stating, "I made a quarter off of dope, nigga." This theme sheds light on the embrace of illegal activities as a means to escape poverty, highlighting the complex societal factors that often push individuals towards illicit paths. It serves as a reminder that financial success does not always equate to moral or ethical prosperity.In conclusion, "Brains on the Basquiat" encapsulates the raw, multifaceted reality of life in the streets. Through dynamic storytelling and thought-provoking lyrics, Westside Gunn weaves a narrative that explores themes of growth, violence, fashion, dominance, and the complexities of financial success. Each standout lyric unveils unexpected and imaginative interpretations, all of which intertwine to emphasize the overarching theme of the song. It is a powerful reminder of the resilience and creativity that can arise from challenging circumstances, and the importance of understanding the complexity of individuals caught in the hustle and bustle of the streets.