About The Money (feat. Young Thug)

T.I.'s 'About The Money,' featuring Young Thug, is a gritty anthem that delves into the relentless pursuit of wealth and the street-smart mentality required to thrive in a cutthroat environment. The song opens with Young Thug's verse, where he vividly describes his rise from poverty to success, using metaphors like 'bustin' out the bando' and 'jewelry real metal like a can opener' to illustrate his journey. His lyrics paint a picture of someone who has navigated the treacherous waters of the streets, moving from 'rags to riches' and now enjoying the fruits of his labor. The imagery of 'fishin' with these little bitty shrimp dips' and 'bank roll got a big dip' further emphasizes his newfound affluence and the lengths he's willing to go to maintain it.

T.I.'s chorus serves as the song's central thesis: if it isn't about money, it's not worth his time. This sentiment is a recurring theme in the world of hip-hop, where financial success is often seen as the ultimate goal. T.I.'s verses reinforce this idea, as he dismisses any distractions that don't contribute to his wealth. Lines like 'Don't be blowin' me up, nigga I ain't gettin' up' and 'Ain't no use in you ringin' my line, stop wastin' my time' underscore his single-minded focus on financial gain. The repetition of 'If it ain't about the money' drives home the message that, in his world, money is the only thing that matters.

The song also touches on themes of loyalty and betrayal, as T.I. warns against trusting the wrong people and emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's roots. He references UGK's 'Pocket Full of Stones' to highlight the lessons he's learned from the streets, and his lines about 'standin' at the corner store with a pocket full of dough' and 'put some bricks in a Bronco' reflect his deep connection to his past. The song's raw, unfiltered lyrics and hard-hitting beats make it a powerful declaration of the hustler's creed, where money, loyalty, and survival are paramount.