Big Fish (feat. Juicy J)

Vince Staples' song 'Big Fish (feat. Juicy J)' is a powerful narrative that delves into the artist's journey from hardship to success. The repetitive chorus, 'I was up late night ballin', countin' up hundreds by the thousand,' emphasizes the relentless hustle and dedication required to achieve financial stability and success. This refrain not only highlights the fruits of his labor but also serves as a stark contrast to his past struggles.

In the verses, Staples paints a vivid picture of his past life, filled with danger and adversity. Lines like 'No sleepin', late nights no eatin', gun squeezing, I'm a real Artesian' and 'Another story of a young black man tryna make it up out that jam, God damn' reflect the harsh realities of growing up in a tough environment. The mention of '22 bus stop way back when' and 'with the 22, 5 shot eyes on scan' further illustrates the constant vigilance and survival instincts required in his earlier days.

Staples also touches on the psychological toll of his journey, with lines like 'Swimming upstream while I'm tryna keep my bread from the sharks make me wanna put the hammer to my head.' Despite these challenges, he remains focused on his goals, as seen in 'Compensation conversations what I'm all about, took the smart route, never been marked out.' The song ultimately conveys a message of resilience and determination, showcasing how Staples overcame his past to achieve success. The collaboration with Juicy J adds an extra layer of authenticity and depth, as both artists share similar backgrounds and experiences.