Everyday Struggle

The Notorious B.I.G.'s 'Everyday Struggle' is a raw and unfiltered portrayal of the harsh realities faced by those living in poverty and involved in the drug trade. The song opens with a haunting refrain, 'I don't wanna live no mo', sometimes I hear death knockin' at my front do',' setting the tone for a narrative steeped in despair and existential dread. Biggie's lyrics delve into the daily grind of hustling, where each day presents a new challenge and a new struggle, often with life-or-death stakes.

In the first verse, Biggie paints a vivid picture of his life before fame, where financial desperation led him to sell drugs. He describes the judgment he faces from society, which views him as a 'mad buddha abuser' and a criminal, without understanding the pressures and responsibilities that drive his actions. The verse also touches on the emotional toll of this lifestyle, from the stress of impending fatherhood to the numbing escape found in alcohol. Biggie's storytelling is both personal and universal, capturing the plight of many who find themselves in similar circumstances.

The second verse continues this narrative, detailing a high-stakes drug run to Maryland. Biggie's meticulous planning and the involvement of his associates highlight the organized yet perilous nature of his hustle. The verse also introduces themes of loyalty and betrayal, as Biggie learns of a friend's murder and the potential for his own downfall. The final verse shifts focus to the broader societal context, referencing then-Mayor Giuliani's crackdown on crime and the systemic challenges faced by Black men. Biggie's reflections on his daughter's future and his own mental state underscore the cyclical nature of poverty and crime, and the difficulty of breaking free from this 'everyday struggle.'