Who I Smoke

Spinnabenz's song "Who I Smoke" is a stark and raw portrayal of street violence and gang rivalries. The song juxtaposes the soft, nostalgic melody of Vanessa Carlton's "A Thousand Miles" with harsh, violent lyrics, creating a jarring contrast that underscores the brutal reality of the artist's world. The lyrics are filled with references to real-life events and individuals, making it a chilling recount of personal vendettas and the cycle of violence that plagues many urban communities.

The song opens with a sample from Carlton's hit, evoking a sense of longing and loss. However, this sentiment is quickly overshadowed by the aggressive and confrontational tone of the verses. Spinnabenz and his collaborators use the song to call out their rivals by name, boasting about their violent actions and the fear they instill in their enemies. The repeated refrain "Who I smoke?" followed by the names of deceased rivals is particularly provocative, highlighting the ongoing feuds and the lack of remorse that characterizes these conflicts.

The lyrics also reflect the harsh realities of life in the streets, where carrying a weapon is a necessity and violence is a constant threat. The references to specific incidents and individuals give the song a documentary-like quality, providing a glimpse into the dangerous and often tragic world of gang life. The use of a well-known, sentimental melody as the backdrop for such grim content serves to emphasize the stark contrast between the innocence of youth and the harshness of the environment in which these young men live.

"Who I Smoke" is a powerful and unsettling commentary on the impact of street violence and the deep-seated rivalries that fuel it. It sheds light on the personal and communal toll of these conflicts, while also serving as a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of violence in certain communities.