How I Grew Up (feat Polo G)
Lil Zay Osama
From Struggle to Success: The Journey of Lil Zay Osama and Polo G
Lil Zay Osama's song "How I Grew Up (feat Polo G)" is a raw and unfiltered narrative of his upbringing in a challenging environment. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a life marked by poverty, crime, and the absence of a father figure. The opening lines set the tone, describing how he and his peers had to resort to robbing and other illicit activities to survive. This harsh reality is juxtaposed with the perception of his "bougie family," who saw them as the "bad kids." The streets, rather than a nurturing home, shaped his character, turning him into a "savage." This transformation is not just a personal journey but a reflection of the systemic issues that plague many inner-city communities.
The song delves deeper into the daily struggles and coping mechanisms that defined Lil Zay Osama's youth. From sleeping on hard floors to eating ramen noodles, the lyrics highlight the scarcity and improvisation that were part of his everyday life. The house, described as a "trap house," was a hub of activity, both social and criminal. The vivid imagery of setting traps for mice and sneaking people in and out of the house underscores the constant state of alertness and survival. The mention of shootouts and ditching school to "boot up" further emphasizes the dangerous and unstable environment he navigated.
Polo G's verse adds another layer to the narrative, echoing similar themes of betrayal, violence, and resilience. He speaks of the loss of friends, the constant threat of violence, and the allure of drug money. The line "Show too much love to the streets, She'll steal your heart if you let her" poignantly captures the double-edged sword of street life—offering both a sense of belonging and a path to destruction. The song concludes with a reflection on how success has changed perceptions, with people who once ignored them now acknowledging their rise. However, this success is bittersweet, as it comes with the recognition of the sacrifices and losses endured along the way.