Mine Too
King Von
Survival and Loyalty in the Streets: King Von's 'Mine Too'
King Von's 'Mine Too' is a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the harsh realities of street life, loyalty, and survival. The song opens with a declaration of overcoming odds without even trying, setting the tone for a narrative that revolves around resilience and dominance. Von's refusal to engage in petty conflicts over women, stating 'Ain't finna beef about no bitch, dawg, she mine too,' underscores a sense of ownership and control that permeates the track. This line also hints at the complex relationships and territorial disputes that are common in his environment.
The repeated mention of 'Tooka' and the violent consequences he faced ('Tooka was playin' crazy so he got fired too') serves as a stark reminder of the lethal stakes involved in gang conflicts. The imagery of putting 'all my opps on t-shirts' and coming through 'like a drive through' vividly portrays the cycle of violence and retribution that defines much of Von's world. The use of 'Cartier on my brothers' symbolizes the bond and loyalty among his crew, further emphasized by the line 'I'll do mines too,' indicating a willingness to go to great lengths for those he considers family.
Von's lyrics also delve into the psychological toll of his lifestyle. He speaks of 'demons in my body' and 'skeletons all in my closet,' revealing the internal struggles and moral dilemmas he faces. The line 'Had to gang bang, ain't have no options till I made it out the projects' highlights the lack of choices and the necessity of gang affiliation for survival in his early life. Despite his success, Von remains deeply connected to his roots, as evidenced by his pride in his O'Block tattoo and his readiness to defend his friends and territory. The song is a powerful testament to the complexities of loyalty, survival, and the unending cycle of violence in the streets.