The song 'Umbrella' by Metro Boomin, 21 Savage, and Young Nudy discusses themes related to street life, including violence, power, loyalty, and the harsh realities of their environment. Contrary to the upbeat introduction, the song dives into a darker and more serious tone, with the lyrics depicting the artists' readiness to confront their adversaries, the casual mention of gun violence, and the invocation of street loyalty and resilience.
The track kicks off with a sense of bold confidence and authority. The artists not only identify with their tough upbringing but wear it as a badge of honor. Through their assertive language and tone, we embark on a narrative where street credibility, toughness, and power play pivotal roles. There's an unapologetic pride in their words, as 21 Savage chants affirmations about his status and influence.
As the verses unfold, we delve into a landscape marked by confrontation and aggression. The artists' readiness to engage with violence and their willingness to 'wet 'em, umbrella'—an implication of gun use—suggests not only a willingness but a perceived necessity to uphold their strength through force. The emotional weight here is heavy with grim acceptance of the dangers they face and the normalization of violent retaliation.
Amidst the overt references to violence, there's a vein of loyalty and camaraderie that runs throughout the song. The repeated mention of 'with the fellas' denotes a sense of brotherhood—this journey isn't taken alone, but with a group who share the same values and experiences. The solidarity among the artists is palpable, giving the otherwise cold narrative a tinge of warmth and belonging.
Finally, the chorus ties together the dichotomy of glamour and violence—a recurring theme in the artists' lives. The opulence of 'Bottega labels on my sweater' juxtaposed with 'Money, violence go together' captures the strange bedfellows of success and hazard in their world. It reflects a complex emotional reality where affluence and peril are intertwined, and where the harshness of their past continues to linger despite their achievements.
"Clutchin' glizzys with the fellas"
A 'glizzy' in this context is slang for a Glock or other handgun. 21 Savage is implying that he and his friends are all armed and dangerous, speaking to preparedness and solidarity in a dangerous environment.
"Choppa sing like it's Adele, uh"
Here, 21 Savage uses a metaphor comparing the sound of a 'choppa'—slang for an automatic rifle—to the singing of Grammy-winning artist Adele. It's a play on the beauty of Adele's voice contrasting with the lethal power of gunfire, underlining themes of beauty interwoven with violence.
"Money, violence go together"
This line illuminates the concept that in the world the artists inhabit, financial success and violent behavior are often inseparable. It's a candid acknowledgment of the complexities within the environments that influenced them.
"These bullets hot, jalapeño pepper"
The bullets being 'hot' like a 'jalapeño pepper' uses spicy food as a metaphor for the potency and danger of the bullets—a creative way to illustrate the fiery pain that their weapons can inflict.