Wanna Be
Lil Peep
The Struggle for Identity and Freedom in 'Wanna Be'
Lil Peep's song 'Wanna Be' delves into the complex emotions and struggles of a young man grappling with his identity and aspirations. The lyrics are raw and unfiltered, reflecting the artist's signature style of blending vulnerability with defiance. The opening lines, 'Screamin' on my mind / That ass so fine / Make a grown man cry,' juxtapose intense emotional turmoil with a moment of physical attraction, highlighting the conflicting feelings that often accompany youth and desire.
The recurring theme of wanting to 'replace my crime' and 'get my face recognized' speaks to a desire for redemption and recognition. Lil Peep expresses a longing to transform his past mistakes into something meaningful, suggesting that he believes in the possibility of change and growth. This is further emphasized by the lines 'I can do anything / I can be anything / Anything I wanna be,' which serve as a powerful affirmation of self-determination and potential.
However, the song also touches on darker themes, such as the artist's fraught relationship with authority and feelings of betrayal. The repeated phrase 'Fuck the cops, man they on to me' reveals a sense of being constantly pursued and misunderstood by those in power. Additionally, the line 'Baby you were just a pawn to me' hints at a cynical view of relationships, possibly stemming from past experiences of manipulation or deceit. Through 'Wanna Be,' Lil Peep captures the essence of a young man striving for freedom and identity amidst a backdrop of societal pressures and personal demons.