Free Youngboy
NLE Choppa
The Struggle and Defiance in NLE Choppa's 'Free Youngboy'
NLE Choppa's song 'Free Youngboy' is a raw and unfiltered portrayal of life in the streets, filled with violence, drug use, and a constant battle against authority. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young man entrenched in a life of crime, driven by a need for survival and a sense of loyalty to his crew. The song opens with a declaration of knowing the whereabouts of his enemies, setting the tone for a narrative steeped in conflict and retribution. The mention of robbing the plug and selling drugs highlights the desperation and the lengths to which he goes to maintain his lifestyle.
The chorus and verses reveal a deep internal struggle, as NLE Choppa juxtaposes his prayers to the Lord with his actions that resemble those of a demon. This duality is a recurring theme, reflecting the conflict between his desire for redemption and the reality of his circumstances. The references to keeping a Glock for protection and the fear instilled in promoters at his shows underscore the constant threat of violence that pervades his life. The imagery of tape on the murder scene and breaking down enemies like a Kit-Kat further emphasizes the brutal nature of his existence.
The song also delves into the emotional toll of this lifestyle, with NLE Choppa acknowledging his mother's concerns and his own pain. Despite his mother's pleas to slow down on drugs, he admits to being unable to escape the cycle of addiction and violence. The repeated question from his mother, 'Why did you grow up this way?' serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of his choices on his loved ones. The song concludes with a sense of inevitability, as he accepts his role as a 'demon in the skies' and the top shotta, resigned to a life of mistakes and the consequences that follow.