The Grit and Grind of 21 Savage's 'asmr'

21 Savage's song 'asmr' is a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the life of someone deeply entrenched in street culture. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and references to violence, loyalty, and survival. The song opens with a declaration of allegiance to his gang, setting the tone for the rest of the track. The mention of 'Young Metro' refers to Metro Boomin, a frequent collaborator and renowned producer, whose trust is a significant endorsement in the hip-hop community.

The song's title, 'asmr,' is an ironic twist, as ASMR typically refers to soothing sounds meant to relax the listener. In contrast, 21 Savage's lyrics are anything but calming. He talks about rolling down windows and sticking out Glocks, a stark depiction of the ever-present threat of violence. The line 'This AK47 made in Moscow' not only highlights the global reach of the weapons trade but also adds a layer of authenticity and menace to his narrative. The repeated references to dead bodies and strange visions suggest a deep-seated trauma, possibly hinting at PTSD, a common issue for those who have experienced extreme violence.

21 Savage also delves into his personal history, contrasting his life of crime with those who stayed indoors, labeling them as 'pussy.' This dichotomy between the streets and safety is a recurring theme, emphasizing the harsh realities of his upbringing. The mention of 'Jewish money' and everything being 'Kosher' is a nod to financial success and legitimacy, a stark contrast to his earlier life of crime. The song also touches on themes of loyalty and betrayal, with 21 Savage making it clear that he values loyalty above all else, refusing to snitch on his enemies or friends.

The song's gritty realism is further emphasized by the detailed descriptions of weapons, violence, and street life. The line 'I got lots of stripes, all my niggas shyst' underscores the idea of earning respect and fear through actions rather than words. The repeated references to firearms, from Desert Eagles to AK47s, paint a picture of a world where power and survival are inextricably linked to one's ability to wield violence. Despite the dark themes, there's an underlying sense of pride and resilience, as 21 Savage navigates a world that demands both strength and cunning.

Share on social media Share as link
  1. ball w/o you
  2. a lot (feat. J. Cole)
  3. redrum
  4. Rich Nigga Shit (feat. Young Thug)
  5. prove it (feat. Summer Walker)
  6. RIP Luv
  7. Famous
  8. all my friends (feat. Post Malone)
  9. Secret (feat. Summer Walker)
  10. Big Smoke
View all 21 Savage songs

Most popular topics in 21 Savage songs

Related artists

  1. Chief Keef
    Chief Keef
  2. Gunna
    Gunna
  3. Lil Yachty
    Lil Yachty
  4. Offset
    Offset
  5. Don Toliver
    Don Toliver
  6. Future
    Future
  7. Trippie Redd
    Trippie Redd
  8. Rob $tone
    Rob $tone