Did It First (feat. Ice Spice)
Central Cee
A Tale of Retaliation and Self-Empowerment
Central Cee's song "Did It First (feat. Ice Spice)" delves into themes of betrayal, retaliation, and self-empowerment. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship marred by infidelity, where the protagonist responds to her partner's cheating by engaging in similar behavior. The repeated line, "If he's cheatin', I'm doin' him worse," underscores a tit-for-tat mentality, suggesting that the protagonist is not willing to be a passive victim but instead takes control of the situation by mirroring her partner's actions.
The song employs a conversational tone, with the protagonist addressing her partner directly, asking, "Tell me, baby, do you understand?" This rhetorical question sets the stage for the narrative of the song, where the protagonist justifies her actions by pointing out that her partner "did it first." The use of metaphors like "No uno, I hit the reverse" and "the grip in my purse" adds layers to the narrative, indicating a sense of readiness and resilience. The protagonist is not just reacting but is prepared and unbothered by the situation, as highlighted by the repeated phrase, "I ain't trippin'."
Ice Spice's verse adds another dimension to the song, emphasizing the complexities of modern relationships. She talks about being selective with her partners and the constant scrutiny she faces, as indicated by lines like "Gyal on my phone tryna see who I slept with." This verse highlights the challenges of maintaining privacy and trust in a relationship, especially in an age where digital footprints can easily expose secrets. The song concludes with a repetitive chant of "He did it first," reinforcing the idea that the protagonist's actions are a direct response to her partner's betrayal.
Overall, "Did It First" is a bold and unapologetic anthem that explores the dynamics of infidelity and the lengths to which individuals will go to reclaim their power and dignity in a relationship. The song's raw and candid lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced betrayal and sought to take control of their narrative.