Drake's 'Started from the Bottom' is an anthem of personal success and loyalty. It portrays his ascent from humble beginnings to stardom and celebrates his achievements alongside his trusted team. The song is centered around the theme of overcoming obstacles, staying true to oneself, and recognizing the support system that has been there from the start.
The song begins with a sense of nostalgia and struggle. Drake reflects on his past, where he lived at his mother's home and worked long hours to make ends meet, yet maintaining a laser-focus on his goals. As the track progresses, there is an undertone of vindication; despite others questioning his hardships, Drake reinforces the authenticity of his journey and his self-made success.
As the chorus hits, the song's energy peaks with celebratory bravado. The repetition of the line 'Started from the bottom, now we're here' serves as a triumphant chant that encapsulates the drastic changes in Drake's life. It shows his transition from a struggling artist to an influential figure in music, who now commands considerable wealth and recognition for his talent.
Throughout the song, an underlying theme of loyalty and authenticity resonates with the listeners. Drake emphasizes the importance of his original team and dismisses the idea of new, inauthentic people joining his circle. The bridge denotes a certain defensiveness and pride in maintaining a real, unaltered identity regardless of fame and fortune.
The emotional journey culminates in a mixture of pride, perseverance, and gratitude. Pride in his achievements, perseverance through adversity, and gratitude towards those who have supported him. The song serves not only as a reminder of where he came from but also as an inspiration to others that with hard work and devotion, one can ascend from any starting point.
"No new niggas, nigga, we don't feel that"
Drake is expressing a strong allegiance to his original friends and collaborators, highlighting the trust and bonds formed before fame and indicating a resistance to fairweather friends who show up after success.
"I wear every single chain, even when I'm in the house"
This line symbolizes Drake's continuous acknowledgment and celebration of his success. He flaunts his achievements unabashedly, recognizing the fruits of his labor even in private moments.
"Story stayed the same, I never changed it"
Drake is affirming that his core narrative remains untouched by fame. He implies that despite the wealth and recognition, the roots of his journey and his identity have stayed consistent.
"I gave you the keys, told you bring it right back"
This line might reflect on an anecdotal instance from Drake's past, possibly highlighting a time when he had to borrow a car, signifying his less affluent past. Now, he reminisces about those times from a place of luxury.