Best Dressed Demons (feat. Mach Hommy)

Westside Gunn's "Best Dressed Demons (feat. Mach Hommy)" is a complex tapestry of cultural commentary, street life, and high fashion. The song opens with a repeated assertion that iconic rock figures like Elvis Presley and The Rolling Stones appropriated the styles of Black musicians such as Muddy Waters and Lil Water. This sets the stage for a broader discussion on cultural theft and the erasure of Black contributions to music and culture. By repeating these lines, Gunn emphasizes the ongoing nature of this appropriation and the lack of recognition for the original creators.

The lyrics then transition into a vivid portrayal of street life, juxtaposed with high-end fashion brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada. This contrast highlights the duality of Gunn's world, where luxury and danger coexist. The mention of "best dressed demons" suggests that even those who are deeply entrenched in a life of crime and violence can present themselves with a veneer of sophistication and style. The references to specific fashion items and brands serve to underline the importance of appearance and status in this environment.

Mach Hommy's verse continues this theme, blending imagery of luxury and violence. Lines like "Silk collars I'm gettin' fed trough, see through Chanel visors" and "Mini TEC and the Grateful Dead Mike Amiri's" create a surreal picture of opulence mixed with street credibility. The mention of "Gore-Tex season" and "Chrome Heart jeans with the crosses on the knees" further emphasizes the importance of fashion as a form of self-expression and identity. The song concludes with a return to the theme of cultural appropriation, reinforcing the message that the contributions of Black artists are often overlooked or stolen by mainstream culture.

"Best Dressed Demons" is a powerful commentary on the intersections of culture, fashion, and street life. It challenges listeners to recognize the origins of cultural trends and to appreciate the artistry and struggles of those who create them.