The song 'Around Me' by Metro Boomin featuring Don Toliver is an introspective track where Don Toliver reflects on the struggles with relationships and the temptation of substances. Embedded within the catchy rhythms and beats is a narrative of personal conflict, with the singer acknowledging the impact of his lifestyle choices, particularly drugs and his connections (or 'plugs'), on his relationships. The song suggests a recognition of the potential consequences these elements have on his life and the desire for a significant other to stay despite the tumult.
The emotional journey of 'Around Me' takes the listener into the psyche of someone caught between the allure of a fast lifestyle and the yearning for stability in love. In the opening lines, Don Toliver presents a setting where he's involved with someone who's been waiting around, signifying a sense of neglect emerging from Don's preoccupations with his lifestyle. The mention of doing things for fun which now have grown serious suggests a realization that actions have consequences.
Don Toliver’s verses dive deeper into the dichotomy of his world, where fame and fortune breed both opulence and opportunistic relationships. His contemplations about a lover wanting to talk 'when the money come in' highlight the emotional turbulence someone might feel when questioning the sincerity of those around them. The indulgence is evident—he's 'goin’ like ten for ten,' living it up without restraint—but it’s juxtaposed with darker times when 'gutter nights, it was hard to flip.'
Throughout 'Around Me,' there’s a tension in Toliver's voice as he grapples with the transient nature of success and company. His repetitive chorus emphasizes the presence of drugs and connections as stable factors in an unstable world, resonating a dependence on them to maintain his momentum and navigate the 'many worlds' he's seen.
The song culminates in an outro by Morgan Freeman, framing the whole narrative in a grander context as he speaks of heroes who reveal themselves in critical moments, suggesting an existential battle within the protagonist. The notion of 'living their whole life as two halves' reflects the duality of Don Toliver's experiences—between the public persona and the private individual seeking something or someone to ground him.
"Pour my cup way above the brim"
This line metaphorically expresses overindulgence, either in terms of substance use or living life to excess.
"I was goin’ Shiest' with the all-black fitted"
Referencing rapper Pooh Shiesty known for wearing black fitted hats, this line conveys moving sneakily or being low-key while engaging in nefarious activities.
"Gutter nights, it was hard to flip"
This phrase likely alludes to challenging times in tougher neighborhoods ('gutter'), where 'to flip' something could refer to making a profit out of difficult situations.
"I hit a mean lick and it was all racks"
'Hitting a lick' is a slang term for making a lot of money quickly and easily, often through illegal activities. 'All racks' refers to having an abundant amount of money.