Stay Schemin (feat. Drake)

Rick Ross's 'Stay Schemin', featuring Drake, is a song that delves into themes of loyalty, the street hustle, and the challenges of success. The repetitive chorus 'I ride for my niggas dawg, I ride for my niggas' emphasizes the importance of loyalty and solidarity among friends, particularly in the context of the street life and music industry. Ross speaks about the lengths he would go to support his friends, a sentiment that is echoed throughout the hip-hop community where loyalty is often prized above all else.

The lyrics 'Stay schemin' / Niggas tryna get at me (dawg)' suggest a sense of paranoia and the constant need to be vigilant. Ross reflects on the adversities and legal troubles that come with success, mentioning that he has a budget for a lawyer, indicating his preparedness for legal battles that may arise from his lifestyle. The song also touches on the fickleness of fame and the music industry, with Drake's verse discussing how the rap game has changed and how some people only reach out to him for personal gain, rather than genuine connection.

Cultural references, such as the mention of Kobe Bryant's divorce settlement ('Kobe 'bout to lose a hundred fifty M's'), serve to illustrate the high stakes and personal costs of fame. The song portrays a lavish lifestyle juxtaposed with the harsh realities of the streets, suggesting that even at the pinnacle of success, one must remain true to their roots and those who have been there from the beginning. 'Stay Schemin'' is a declaration of unwavering loyalty and the relentless pursuit of success, despite the obstacles and betrayals that may come one's way.