Sky City (feat. Ty Dolla $ign, 070 Shake, Desiigner & CyHi)
Kanye West
Dreaming of a Utopian Sky City: Kanye West's Vision of Hope and Unity
Kanye West's song "Sky City" featuring Ty Dolla $ign, 070 Shake, Desiigner, and CyHi is a lyrical exploration of hope, unity, and the dream of a utopian society. The recurring theme of building a city in the sky symbolizes an ideal world where people can escape the struggles and injustices of earthly life. This metaphorical city represents a place of peace, equality, and freedom, where everyone can thrive without the burdens of societal issues.
The lyrics delve into existential questions and the afterlife, pondering whether Heaven has luxurious accommodations and if iconic figures like Rick James, Prince, Biggie, and Tupac have found their peace. This reflection on the afterlife serves as a way to cope with the loss of loved ones and the desire for a better place beyond this world. The mention of various cultural icons and their hypothetical heavenly abodes adds a layer of nostalgia and longing for a time when these figures were alive and influential.
Kanye also addresses contemporary issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic, social justice, and the importance of unity. The line "my people still dyin' over hand gestures" highlights the ongoing violence and discrimination faced by marginalized communities. The song calls for forgiveness and togetherness, echoing Nelson Mandela's message that progress can only be achieved through unity. The idea of building a city in the sky becomes a metaphor for creating a better world through collective effort and mutual support.
The song's hopeful tone is reinforced by the repeated refrain "Ooh, child, things are gonna get easier," a nod to the classic song by The Five Stairsteps. This line serves as a comforting reminder that despite the current challenges, there is hope for a brighter future. The collaboration of multiple artists in this track further emphasizes the theme of unity and the power of coming together to create something beautiful and meaningful.