Huntin' Wabbitz
J. Cole
The Chase for Success in J. Cole's 'Huntin’ Wabbitz'
J. Cole's 'Huntin’ Wabbitz' is a metaphorical exploration of his relentless pursuit of success and dominance in the rap game. The title itself is a playful reference to the classic cartoon scenario of Elmer Fudd hunting Bugs Bunny, which symbolizes the artist's strategic and determined chase for his goals. The opening lines set the tone for a stealthy and focused pursuit, much like a hunter stalking his prey.
Throughout the song, J. Cole uses vivid imagery and wordplay to describe his journey and mindset. He speaks of not being content with running in place, indicating his desire to make significant progress and leave a mark on the industry. The lyrics 'I work the whole winter to take over summer' suggest his work ethic and the calculated timing of his moves. He also addresses his competitors, implying that they are not on his level and that he is uninterested in forming superficial relationships with them. The reference to 'Kristaps' is a nod to Kristaps Porziņģis, a basketball player known for his height, paralleling J. Cole's aspirations to stack his successes high.
The song also touches on themes of legacy and the transient nature of fame. J. Cole positions himself as a 'Globetrotter,' someone who has seen and experienced much, and as '2Pac twin,' aligning himself with the legendary rapper Tupac Shakur. The repetition of 'Came up 'round sharks, so that's just how I swim' emphasizes his adaptability and survival instinct in a cutthroat industry. The closing apology adds a layer of introspection, hinting at the personal cost of his ambition.