Total 90!
Kyan
Navigating Respect and Survival: The Gritty Reality of Kyan's 'Total 90!'
Kyan's song 'Total 90!' is a raw and unfiltered portrayal of life in the streets, where respect and survival are paramount. The title itself, 'Total 90!', is a reference to a popular line of Nike football boots, symbolizing the respect and status that Kyan has earned in his community. He likens respect to a pair of football boots, suggesting that just as boots are essential for a footballer, respect is crucial for survival in his world. The lyrics emphasize the importance of experience and authenticity, as Kyan dismisses other MCs who lack the real-life experiences that he has endured.
The song delves into the harsh realities of street life, where Kyan describes counting money in his car and always being armed. This imagery paints a picture of a life where danger is ever-present, and one must always be prepared to defend oneself. The mention of the F-Pace, a luxury car, juxtaposed with his humble beginnings, highlights the stark contrast between his past and present. Kyan's lyrics also touch on the systemic issues faced by young black men in his state, where he notes that a young black man dies every 23 minutes. This statistic underscores the perpetual state of mourning and survival that defines his existence.
Kyan's narrative is one of resilience and defiance. He speaks of his journey from the bottom, acknowledging the struggles and the losses along the way. The repetition of counting money and being armed serves as a reminder of the constant vigilance required to navigate his environment. The song is a testament to Kyan's determination to rise above his circumstances while staying true to his roots. It is a powerful commentary on the socio-economic challenges and the fight for respect and survival in a world that often seems stacked against him.