Snowchild
The Weeknd
From Struggle to Stardom: The Weeknd's 'Snowchild'
The Weeknd's 'Snowchild' is a reflective track that delves into the artist's journey from his troubled youth to his current status as a successful musician. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of his past struggles, including dealing with the potential for self-harm, the harsh realities of street life, and the pursuit of money and success as a form of escape. The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, often incorporates themes of hardship, substance abuse, and the darker side of fame into his music, and 'Snowchild' is no exception.
In the song, The Weeknd recounts his early days of making music while his friends were involved in illegal activities ('singing notes while my niggas played with six keys'). He speaks metaphorically about his experiences with drugs ('blowing smoke, had me dizzy like Gillespie') and the cold environment he came from ('walking in the snow'). The reference to 'leaving into the night' suggests a departure from his past life towards something new, which is reinforced by his move from Canada ('Cali was the mission') to the United States.
The latter part of the song shifts to The Weeknd's current life, filled with luxury and fame. However, despite the material success ('Twenty mill' mansion'), there's a sense of isolation and the continuous pressure of public scrutiny ('Paparazzi tryna catch me slippin''). The repeated line 'now a nigga leaving' could imply a desire to escape the trappings of fame or to evolve beyond his current state. The song is a contemplation on the cost of success and the ongoing search for personal fulfillment beyond material wealth.