Baby again.. (feat. Fred again.. & Four Tet)
Skrillex
The Duality of Success and Struggle in 'Baby again..'
Skrillex's track 'Baby again..,' featuring Fred again.. and Four Tet, delves into the complex life of a character referred to as 'Baby.' The repetitive nature of the lyrics emphasizes the duality of Baby's existence, oscillating between success and the gritty realities of his environment. Baby is portrayed as a figure who has achieved significant success ('Baby prolly got a couple million') while still being deeply rooted in his community ('Baby in the hood gettin' active'). This juxtaposition highlights the tension between his past and present, suggesting that despite his financial success, he remains connected to his origins and the people around him.
The lyrics also explore themes of authenticity and loyalty. Baby is described as 'the realest,' someone who 'keeps it real with his people.' This suggests a sense of integrity and loyalty to his roots, even as he navigates the complexities of his newfound status. The repeated mention of Baby hanging with 'four or five killers' and possibly still being involved in drug dealing ('Baby prolly still drug dealin'') adds a layer of danger and authenticity to his character. It paints a picture of someone who has not entirely escaped the darker aspects of his past, despite his success as a rapper.
The song's repetitive structure and the use of the word 'class' towards the end can be seen as a metaphor for the cyclical nature of Baby's life. Despite his achievements, he is continually pulled back into the same patterns and environments. This repetition underscores the idea that success does not necessarily equate to freedom from one's past. Instead, it highlights the ongoing struggle to balance personal growth with loyalty to one's origins. The collaboration with Fred again.. and Four Tet adds a rich, layered production that complements the lyrical themes, creating a track that is both introspective and resonant with the complexities of modern life.