Hotel Lobby

Pop Smoke's 'Hotel Lobby' is a vivid portrayal of the tension between success and the ever-present threat of violence in the rapper's life. The song opens with Pop Smoke recounting a moment of relaxation in a hotel lobby, only to be interrupted by a call warning him that people are looking for him. This sets the stage for the central theme of the song: the constant vigilance required to survive in a world where danger is always lurking. The repeated line, 'I don't really wanna catch a body, but I got a feelin' niggas tryna line me,' underscores the internal conflict between his desire for peace and the necessity of self-defense.

The lyrics also delve into Pop Smoke's rise from the streets to stardom, highlighting his resilience and determination. Lines like 'I done came a long way from the street shit' and 'I remember when they said I ain't gon' be shit' reflect his journey from a troubled past to a successful present. The mention of luxury brands like Christian Louboutin and references to his financial success ('I'ma let the champagne bottle pop') serve as symbols of his hard-earned achievements. Yet, these symbols of success are juxtaposed with the ever-present threat of violence, creating a stark contrast that defines much of Pop Smoke's music.

Cultural references abound in 'Hotel Lobby,' from the nod to Mansa Musa, one of the wealthiest historical figures, to the imagery of 'ripping my shirt off like Hogan,' a reference to the iconic wrestler Hulk Hogan. These references not only add layers to the narrative but also connect Pop Smoke's personal story to broader cultural touchstones. The song encapsulates the duality of his life: the celebration of success and the constant need for vigilance. This duality is a recurring theme in Pop Smoke's work, reflecting the complex reality of navigating fame and danger simultaneously.