Meaning of Red Tops by Westside Gunn

The Westside Gunn song titled 'Red Tops' is a gritty and introspective track that delves into the realities of street life and the consequences that come with it. The song captures the essence of the rap duo Griselda, known for their raw and unapologetic storytelling. 'Red Tops' explores themes of survival, loyalty, resilience, and the struggle for success in a world where danger lurks around every corner.One of the standout lyrics in the song is when Conway raps, "For a minute I was strugglin', niggas wasn't real as I thought." This lyric speaks to the theme of trust and betrayal. It highlights the harsh reality that sometimes the people you consider your friends or allies can turn their backs on you when times get tough. The lyric suggests the importance of being cautious and discerning when navigating through a treacherous environment.Another powerful lyric in 'Red Tops' is when Westside Gunn says, "Brianni down in the Benz truck." This lyric touches on the theme of materialism and the pursuit of luxury. It represents the allure and desire for success, wealth, and status symbolized by a luxury vehicle. However, it also suggests the temptation and potential dangers that come with the pursuit of materialistic goals, as it is linked to the drug trade and criminal activities.The line "What you know about burgers on a Wednesday? Shotgun shells where your kids play" provides a chilling insight into the harsh realities of street life. This lyric explores themes of sacrifice, danger, and the impact of a criminal lifestyle on family. It evokes a sense of urgency and desperation, highlighting the sacrifices individuals might make to survive and the dire consequences that can affect innocent loved ones.The song's chorus, "Hall and Nash, West and Con, nigga, we upper echelon," speaks to the theme of empowerment and rising above obstacles. The reference to wrestling duo Hall and Nash signifies the strength, unity, and dominance of Westside Gunn and Conway in the rap game. It represents their pursuit of greatness and their unwavering determination to succeed despite the challenges they face.Overall, 'Red Tops' explores the harsh realities of street life, delving into themes of trust, materialism, sacrifice, and empowerment. It tells a story of resilience and survival in a hostile environment. The lyrics discussed above provide a glimpse into the depth and complexity of these themes within the song, offering listeners a vivid and thought-provoking narrative that immerses them in the world of Griselda. 'Red Tops' serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by many and the strength required to overcome adversity.