Meaning of Concrete by Westside Gunn

The Westside Gunn song titled "Concrete" is a gritty and lyrical track that delves into the experiences and perspectives of the artists involved. The song features Westside Gunn, Bun B, and Termanology, each delivering their unique style and contributions to create a distinct and captivating piece of music.The overall theme of "Concrete" seems to revolve around the concept of authenticity and strength in the face of adversity. The title itself suggests the idea of being solid, unyielding, and grounded, much like the hard and unbreakable substance concrete. This theme is further explored through the vivid and deep lyrics within the song, offering a glimpse into the artists' lives and mindsets.One standout lyric from the song comes from Westside Gunn in the opening verse: "Ayo, I know some lowhead status stick you for your horse. No remorse, I weigh the MAC-12 out the Porsche." This line speaks to the harsh reality of street life and the drastic measures some individuals are willing to take to survive. The juxtaposition of stealing someone's prized possession (a horse) and feeling no remorse conveys a sense of coldness and desperation. This theme of survival at any cost is a recurring motif in the song.Another powerful lyric is found in Bun B's verse: "And I’m concrete, realest nigga on feet. The shotgun is riding shotgun, I’m feeling complete." Here, Bun B emphasizes his authenticity and resilience, comparing himself to concrete and asserting his status as the realest individual. The presence of the shotgun symbolizes his readiness for anything that comes his way, adding to the theme of strength and unwavering determination.Termanology's verse also carries significant weight, discussing the struggles he has faced and his rise in the music industry. He raps, "My mama had nightmares, they killed the only son. Walked into the store to cop a Limbase, some kid got shot in this mente, they ended his day." These lines touch upon the harsh reality of inner-city violence and its impact on individuals and communities. The imagery of someone's mother having nightmares about losing her only son adds an emotional layer to the song. Furthermore, the mention of witnessing a shooting while going about mundane tasks like buying a drink highlights the constant danger and unpredictability of the environments that these artists come from.Through these standout lyrics, "Concrete" explores the themes of survival, authenticity, strength, and the harsh realities of life in inner-city communities. The song serves as a platform for the artists to express their experiences, perspectives, and determination to succeed despite the obstacles they face. It is a vivid portrayal of the realities often ignored or misunderstood by those outside of these communities.Overall, "Concrete" is a powerful and thought-provoking song that not only showcases the lyrical prowess of Westside Gunn, Bun B, and Termanology, but also allows listeners to glimpse into their lives and the challenges they have overcome. It reminds us of the importance of resilience, authenticity, and the strength of the human spirit even in the harshest of circumstances.