Run This Town (feat. Jay-Z & Kanye West)

Rihanna Rihanna

Empowerment and Ambition in 'Run This Town'

Rihanna's 'Run This Town,' featuring Jay-Z and Kanye West, is a powerful anthem of control, ambition, and dominance in the face of adversity. The song opens with Rihanna setting the tone of anticipation and excitement, suggesting a readiness to face challenges head-on. The repeated question 'Who's gon' run this town tonight?' serves as a rallying cry, implying that the speaker and their allies are about to take over, asserting their power and influence.

Jay-Z's verses delve into themes of loyalty, success, and the hustle of achieving greatness. References to 'Roc Nation' and 'pledge your allegiance' evoke a sense of unity and strength within his team. The imagery of 'all black everything' and 'black cards, black cars' symbolizes luxury and exclusivity, while 'blackbirds ridin' with they Dillingers' suggests a readiness for combat or competition. Jay-Z's narrative is one of overcoming obstacles ('I'm a couple bands down and I'm tryin' to get back') and reaffirming his status at the top of the game.

Kanye West's verse adds a personal touch, reflecting on the rapid change from obscurity to fame ('from bein' Joe Blow to everybody on your dick; no homo'). He touches on the material rewards of success but also hints at the emptiness that can accompany it ('All these girls only gon' want one thing'). Kanye's lyrics suggest a desire for genuine connection and experiences beyond the superficial trappings of fame. Overall, 'Run This Town' is a declaration of victory and control, with each artist contributing their perspective on what it means to be at the top of their game.

Share on social media Share as link
  1. Breakin' Dishes
  2. Umbrella (feat. Jay-Z)
  3. Love On The Brain
  4. Dancing In The Dark
  5. Stay (feat. Mikky Ekko)
  6. Love The Way You Lie (Part II) (feat. Eminem)
  7. Kiss It Better
  8. You Da One
  9. Diamonds
  10. This Is What You Came For (feat. Calvin Harris)
View all Rihanna songs

Most popular topics in Rihanna songs

Related artists

  1. ZAYN
    ZAYN
  2. Beyoncé
    Beyoncé
  3. Justin Timberlake
    Justin Timberlake
  4. Britney Spears
    Britney Spears
  5. Selena Gomez
    Selena Gomez
  6. Jessie J
    Jessie J
  7. Justin Bieber
    Justin Bieber
  8. Demi Lovato
    Demi Lovato