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https://songmeaning.ai/songs/Future-and-juice-wrld-hard-work-pays-off
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In 'Hard Work Pays Off,' Future and Juice WRLD explore themes of success, the trappings of wealth, and the gritty side of their come-up, all while intertwining references to substance use, violence, and loyalty to their roots. The song juxtaposes their achievements in the music industry with the struggles and darker elements that often shadow such success.
The track begins with Juice WRLD's chorus that sets a triumphant tone, asserting that their success is the fruit of their dedication. However, the imagery quickly turns dark with references to violence and performing acts of aggression to protect their status. It's a stark reminder that with success comes a need to defend it, and the use of violence becomes a metaphor for the relentless nature of their hard work.
Juice WRLD's verse dives into a personal narrative that blends luxury with the internal battles he faces, including his struggle with substance abuse—hinting at a darker undercurrent to the facade of success. Emotionally, we are witnessing the conflict between his outward success and inner turmoil. He flexes wealth, symbolized through designer brands and money, but immediately follows with a need to 'call my doctor to handle my pain' hinting at a reliance on prescription drugs to cope.
Future's verse reflects on betrayal and the changing nature of relationships as one climbs the ladder of success. He speaks of being 'traumatized before,' suggesting past hardships have shaped his resilience. Despite the adversities, he remains unfazed and even rejuvenated, living out his dreams and feeling reborn amid the accomplishments. The emotional weight of loyalty, loss, and the high stakes of their environment is palpable in his storytelling.
The song's hook, repeated after each verse, serves as both a refrain and reminder of their mantra, 'Hard Work Pays Off.' Yet the journey is not just a celebration; it's a relentless hustle, fraught with the need to be vigilant and prepared for threats. Both artists craft a complex emotional landscape; pride in one's work, the adrenaline of rapid success, the strain of maintaining that success, and the haunting presence of past struggles.
"Tryna take it, then you dead, Nate Dogg"
This quote references the late rapper Nate Dogg, known for his smooth hooks in hip-hop during the 90s and early 2000s. The artists use his name playfully to suggest the seriousness of protecting their success, likening it to a threat: try to take their success, and it's a fatal mistake.
"No limit the gang, try it, they gon’ shoot you down, yeah"
Here, the mention of 'No Limit' refers to the No Limit Muskegon Boys, a Chicago-based gang that Juice WRLD was associated with. It reflects the loyalty and protective nature of his circle.
"Fast break, taking off, dunk on a bitch, John Wall"
This line uses basketball player John Wall as a metaphor for their rapid and showy rise to success, likening their maneuvers in the music industry to a fast-paced and impressive dunk in basketball.
"Drippin' on 'em every day, steak sauce"
Future uses the term 'dripping,' which in hip-hop slang refers to wearing expensive, flashy clothes and jewelry. The 'steak sauce' adds a humorous element, suggesting superior quality and luxury.
