Pusherman

Doyle Bramhall's song "Pusherman" delves into the complex and often contradictory life of a drug dealer, or 'pusherman.' The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a character who is both a provider and a predator, someone who fulfills the needs of the community while simultaneously exploiting its vulnerabilities. The opening lines, "I'm your mama, I'm your daddy, I'm that man in the alley," suggest a multifaceted role that the pusherman plays in the lives of his clients. He is a caregiver and a friend, but also a shadowy figure lurking in the background, ready to supply drugs to those in need.

The song's chorus, "I'm your pusherman," is a stark reminder of the central role that the pusherman plays in the lives of his clients. He is a constant presence, always available to provide the next fix. The lyrics also highlight the pusherman's dual nature, describing him as both "super cool" and "super mean." This duality is further emphasized by the line, "Dealin' good for The Man," suggesting that the pusherman is both a rebel and a conformist, working within the system while also subverting it.

The song also touches on the pusherman's own struggles and insecurities. Lines like "Silent life of crime, a man of odd circumstance, a victim of ghetto demands" reveal the internal conflict and external pressures that come with the territory. The pusherman is not just a villain; he is also a product of his environment, shaped by the harsh realities of life in the ghetto. The song's closing lines, "Ghetto Prince is my thing, makin' love's how I swing," suggest a desire for power and control, but also a longing for connection and intimacy. In the end, the pusherman is a complex and multifaceted character, embodying both the allure and the dangers of the drug trade.