Meaning of Echo Long by Westside Gunn

In the song "Echo Long" by Westside Gunn, featuring Benny the Butcher and Meyhem Lauren, the overarching theme revolves around the harsh realities of life in the streets and the lengths individuals will go to survive and thrive in these environments. The lyrics provide insights into the experiences, struggles, and mindset of those who inhabit this world.One standout lyric in the first verse by Benny the Butcher is, "Dear Mama, I’m a rider, a version of Pac." This lyric not only pays homage to the legendary rapper Tupac Shakur but also highlights the idea of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. It emphasizes the relentless pursuit of success, despite the obstacles and risks involved.Another powerful lyric is found in the verse by Meyhem Lauren, where he states, "It’s a cold world, Lord, keep a 9 in your mink." This lyric vividly depicts the dangerous and unpredictable nature of the streets. The image of keeping a weapon concealed in a luxurious mink coat symbolizes the need for constant vigilance and protection in a harsh and unforgiving environment.The chorus of the song, performed by Westside Gunn, contains the lyrics, "I had a nigga cook my motherfucking dinner, I had a nigga iron my clothes." This lyric delves into the idea of power dynamics and hierarchy. It suggests that those with influence and control can command others to fulfill menial tasks, highlighting the disparities and realities of street life where power dynamics dictate one's position.Additionally, the lyric "The streets are my safari, I breeze through, my balls smelling like Bulgari" by Meyhem Lauren introduces a unique interpretation. Here, the streets are depicted as a dangerous terrain, much like a safari, where individuals navigate their way through. Through this metaphor, the artist suggests that he is not only surviving but thriving in this environment, comparing his success to the luxury and extravagance associated with the scent of Bulgari.Furthermore, the line "Seventeen shots stuffed into the rim, The plug starts to like you when you spend what I spend" by Benny the Butcher carries multiple connotations. It speaks to the notion of violence prevalent in street life, with the mention of the seventeen shots. Simultaneously, it hints at a power dynamic between the "plug" (supplier) and the artist, where status and respect are earned through financial contributions.As the song progresses, it becomes apparent that these lyrics all contribute to the broader theme of survival, ambition, and the struggles faced in the streets. Each lyric offers a unique perspective, showcasing the mentality, sacrifices, and aspirations of individuals living within these circumstances.Overall, "Echo Long" presents a gritty portrayal of life in the streets, highlighting the realities and challenges faced by those striving for success and survival. Through the evocative lyrics of Benny the Butcher, Westside Gunn, and Meyhem Lauren, the song explores various themes such as resilience, power dynamics, luxury in adversity, and the pursuit of wealth. It captivates the listener's imagination by delving into unexpected and imaginative interpretations of street life, offering a creative lens to understand the harsh realities tackled within the song.