Fried (feat. Ty Dolla $ign)

In 'Fried,' Kanye West, featuring Ty Dolla $ign, delves into the chaotic and often overwhelming lifestyle that comes with fame and success. The song opens with a haunting repetition of 'Oh-oh-oh,' setting a tone of introspection and unease. Kanye reflects on the loss of friends and the surreal nature of his survival amidst the chaos, hinting at the emotional toll that his lifestyle has taken on him. The word 'fried' serves as a metaphor for being mentally and emotionally exhausted, a state of being burnt out from the relentless pace of his life.

The lyrics also explore themes of hedonism and excess. Kanye and Ty Dolla $ign describe indulgent behaviors, from sexual encounters to lavish spending. The imagery of ordering fries and eating 'the breast, then the thighs' is a crude metaphor for their casual and transactional relationships with women. This hedonistic lifestyle is juxtaposed with moments of paranoia and violence, as seen in lines like 'Pray on our enemies when we dine' and 'Only one gon' walk away when we collide.' These lines suggest a constant state of vigilance and the ever-present threat of danger, even in moments of supposed relaxation.

The song also touches on the idea of proving oneself and dealing with criticism. Kanye mentions how he is loved in his city 'like I'm Pac,' a reference to the late Tupac Shakur, indicating his desire for respect and validation. The line 'Where them at that was sayin' I fell off?' addresses his critics directly, showcasing his resilience and determination to stay on top. The lavish lifestyle, complete with luxury cars and expensive jewelry, serves as both a symbol of success and a coping mechanism for the pressures that come with it. 'Fried' is a raw and unfiltered look into the highs and lows of Kanye West's life, capturing the complexity of fame, excess, and the quest for validation.