Meaning of Lucha Bros by Westside Gunn

In his song "Lucha Bros," Westside Gunn takes listeners on a lyrical journey through the streets of New York, showcasing his prowess as an artist and storyteller. The overall theme of the song can be seen as a reflection on street life, survival, and the pursuit of success in the face of adversity.One standout lyric in the song is when Westside Gunn raps, "Steam versus Flair, how dare you try to be us." This line draws upon the world of professional wrestling and compares it to the gritty reality of street life. It speaks to the idea of individuals trying to imitate the lifestyle of those who have achieved success and notoriety. The theme that emerges from this lyric is the concept of originality and authenticity. Westside Gunn emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and not simply trying to copy or imitate others.Another interesting lyric in "Lucha Bros" is when Westside Gunn raps, "I flip shits like the Lucha Bros, right out the front door." Here, he makes a clever wordplay on the phrase "flip shits" by using it to refer to both drug dealing and the acrobatic moves performed by professional wrestlers, the Lucha Bros. This lyric explores themes of adaptability and resourcefulness in the face of challenging circumstances. It suggests that sometimes in order to survive and thrive, one must be willing to continually reinvent themselves and adapt to new situations.Curren$y's verse in the song also adds depth to the overall theme. He raps, "Went to war with my foes, black roses in every coffin." This line symbolizes the harsh realities of street life, where conflict and violence often have devastating consequences. It builds upon the theme of survival discussed earlier, highlighting the fierce determination needed to overcome obstacles and come out on top. The imagery of black roses further reinforces the notion of loss and sacrifice.Benny the Butcher's verse in "Lucha Bros" brings yet another layer of depth to the song. He raps, "My plug made that white girl famous in every market, like Simon turned a regular chick to Kelly Clarkson." This line delves into the world of drug dealing and its impact on pop culture. It raises the theme of influence and the power dynamics that exist within the streets. The reference to Kelly Clarkson, a successful singer who rose to fame through a reality TV show (American Idol) symbolizes the transformation that can occur when someone from an ordinary background achieves great success.Overall, "Lucha Bros" weaves together various themes related to street life, survival, authenticity, adaptation, and influence. Westside Gunn, Curren$y, and Benny the Butcher each bring their unique perspectives to the song, adding depth and creative storytelling to the overall narrative. However, beneath the surface of these themes lies an undercurrent of resilience and determination to overcome obstacles and achieve success in the face of adversity. "Lucha Bros" invites listeners to reflect on the challenges of street life while celebrating the strength and creativity that emerges from these environments.