Big (Ft. Chipmunk)

Skepta's song 'Big,' featuring Chipmunk, delves into the complexities and paradoxes of fame. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the artist's journey from obscurity to stardom, highlighting the challenges and disillusionments that come with success. Skepta begins by addressing the misconceptions people have about his life, such as the assumption that he must be surrounded by women due to his fame. He reveals the superficiality and isolation that often accompany celebrity status, as people keep their distance to avoid being labeled as groupies. This detachment is a recurring theme, emphasizing how fame can create barriers between the artist and genuine human connections.

The chorus serves as a cautionary tale for those who aspire to achieve fame, suggesting that the glamorous life they see is not as desirable as it appears. Skepta reflects on the pressures and mental toll of being in the public eye, admitting that he sometimes wishes he had known what he knows now when he was younger. This sentiment is echoed in the second verse, where he discusses the paranoia and constant scrutiny that come with fame. The artist's lifestyle, filled with late nights and clubbing, starts to feel more like a prison than a privilege, further illustrating the sacrifices and emotional strain of maintaining a public persona.

Chipmunk's verse adds another layer to the narrative, focusing on the competitive nature of the music industry. He speaks about the targets on their backs and the relentless pursuit of success, which often leads to burnout and disillusionment. The metaphor of 'shooting for your targets' making you a target encapsulates the double-edged sword of ambition and fame. The song concludes with a sobering reminder that fame is fleeting, likening it to a box of chocolates where the wrapper is discarded once the contents are consumed. This powerful imagery underscores the transient nature of celebrity and the importance of staying grounded amidst the chaos.