Gotta Get Mine

Born Jamericans' song 'Gotta Get Mine' delves into the harsh realities of life in the ghetto, where survival often means making tough and morally ambiguous choices. The repeated advice from the protagonist's mother, 'don't live by your knife' and 'gotta get out the ghetto,' serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers and limitations of their environment. Despite this maternal wisdom, the protagonist feels compelled to 'get mine,' highlighting the internal conflict between moral guidance and the pressing need to survive and thrive in a challenging world.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist's world, filled with chronic, 40-ounce bottles, and blunts. The mention of wearing Versace to attract attention underscores the superficial values imposed by society, where material wealth and appearance often dictate one's worth. The protagonist's lament about 'modern day slavery' and earning '5 cent royalties' from LPs reflects the exploitation and lack of fair compensation in the music industry, further emphasizing the systemic challenges faced by those trying to escape poverty.

Mad Lion's verse adds another layer to the narrative, depicting a night filled with guns and the temptation of committing a robbery. The reference to 'soliciting private stocks of trees' and 'distribution major' suggests involvement in the drug trade as a means of survival. The protagonist's reflection on receiving a gun as a birthday gift at six years old and the subsequent encounters with law enforcement highlight the cycle of violence and criminalization that many young people in the ghetto experience. The song ultimately portrays a grim reality where the pursuit of survival often leads to dangerous and desperate actions, despite the well-meaning advice of loved ones.