May I Flex (feat. Black Bag LA & Momoh Cobain)

In 'May I Flex,' XXXTENTACION, along with Black Bag LA and Momoh Cobain, delves into the duality of success and the accompanying paranoia. The song's repetitive hook, 'May I flex,' serves as both a rhetorical question and a declaration of the artist's newfound wealth and status. Flexing, in this context, refers to flaunting one's success, often through material possessions like money, jewelry, and luxury items. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of this lifestyle, with references to 'thirty grand around my neck' and 'ice on me like Gretzky,' highlighting the opulence that comes with fame.

However, beneath the surface of this ostentatious display lies a sense of unease. The repeated line 'I've been flexing so hard I'm feeling paranoid' reveals the darker side of success. The artist feels a constant sense of paranoia, unable to sleep and always on edge. This paranoia could stem from various sources, such as the fear of losing one's wealth, the pressure to maintain a certain image, or the distrust of those around them. The mention of a Ruger, a type of firearm, further emphasizes the need for protection in this high-stakes lifestyle.

The song also touches on themes of competition and authenticity. Lines like 'Your bitch always text me' and 'Them niggas looking broke' suggest a competitive environment where one's worth is measured by their material success. The artists assert their dominance and authenticity, contrasting themselves with others who are 'acting' and 'fasting.' This competitive spirit is a common theme in hip-hop, where artists often use their lyrics to assert their place in the hierarchy of success. Overall, 'May I Flex' is a complex exploration of the highs and lows of fame, capturing both the allure and the anxiety that come with it.