What You Need
Don Toliver
Material Desires and Emotional Disconnect in Don Toliver's 'What You Need'
Don Toliver's 'What You Need' delves into the complex interplay between materialism and emotional fulfillment in modern relationships. The song's repetitive chorus, asking 'What you need, lil' baby?' underscores a sense of urgency and a desire to please, but it also hints at a transactional nature of love. Toliver offers luxury items like Double C (Chanel) and cash on the table, suggesting that material goods are a way to win affection or maintain a connection. This reflects a broader cultural commentary on how consumerism can infiltrate personal relationships, making them feel more like business transactions than genuine emotional bonds.
The lyrics also touch on themes of escapism and substance use. References to 'Xannys goin' up' and late-night club scenes paint a picture of a lifestyle where emotional issues are often masked by partying and drug use. This escapism is a common theme in contemporary music, reflecting the struggles of a generation seeking solace in temporary highs rather than addressing deeper emotional needs. The line 'Donny started talkin', all you said is