Meaning of Kostas by Westside Gunn

The Westside Gunn song titled "Kostas" is a gritty and hard-hitting track that showcases the lyrical prowess of Westside Gunn, Conway the Machine, and Benny the Butcher. The overall theme of the song revolves around their experiences and attitudes towards street life, success, and the hustle to make it in the rap game. The lyrics depict a lifestyle filled with drugs, violence, and the pursuit of wealth.One standout lyric in the song is "I got your bitch on a hit list, nigga/ She'll leave you for a rich, rich nigga." This lyric explores the theme of loyalty and trust within relationships. It suggests the treacherous nature of street life, where even close associates can turn against each other for personal gain. This idea of betrayal highlights the constant tension and precariousness in the world the artists inhabit.Another notable lyric is "I'm the gladiator, I'm the Black Russell/ Silencer on the MAC muzzle." This lyric taps into the theme of power and dominance. It presents the artists as warriors in the rap game, constantly battling for supremacy and recognition. The metaphorical comparison to a gladiator and the mention of a silencer on the MAC muzzle suggests a calculated and deadly approach to their craft. They are strategic in their moves and take no prisoners, cementing their status as formidable forces in the industry.The line "You could've made it out of that struggle/ But you'd rather hate and you lack hustle" reflects a theme of ambition and determination. It speaks to the desire to escape a life of hardship and poverty through hard work and perseverance. However, it also acknowledges the presence of individuals who choose to resent the success of others instead of focusing on their own journey. This theme highlights the importance of self-motivation and the detrimental effects of envy and negativity.The lyric "I'm a silverback with banana clips/ I'ma peel the cap when I'm sprayin' shit" delves into the theme of strength and dominance. It paints a vivid picture of the artists as alpha males, unafraid to assert their power and authority. The mention of a silverback gorilla, a symbol of strength and territorial dominance, further emphasizes their position in the rap game. The imagery suggests that they are not to be trifled with and will aggressively defend their territory.Overall, the song "Kostas" weaves together various themes such as loyalty, power, ambition, and strength to create a vivid portrayal of street life and the pursuit of success. It addresses the harsh realities of the environment they come from and the mindset needed to navigate and thrive within it. Through their gritty lyrics and captivating delivery, Westside Gunn, Benny the Butcher, and Conway the Machine give listeners a glimpse into their complex world and the struggles they face on their path to greatness.