Drake, a lyrical genius, did it again! ๐ Let’s dive into the deep waters of “8AM in Charlotte” – the latest single from his album FOR ALL THE DOGS. By the way, did you hear about his other smashing hits from the same album? Check them out here:
The Canadian rap superstar drops another banger, and MandyNews is here with the tea! Let’s get into it! ๐ถ
At A Glance
| Key Takeaways | Details |
|---|---|
| Album | FOR ALL THE DOGS |
| Producer | Conductor Williams |
| Key Themes | Ambition, Legacy, Life Realities, Fatherhood |
| Lyrical Highlight | The intertwining narrative of Drake’s life and Adonis’s childlike tales |
| Deep Dive Topics | The meaning of SBW, Drake’s reflection on his journey and his ongoing dominance |
Juicy Intro
Hold up, fam! The 6 God, Drake, just dropped “8AM in Charlotte”, and it’s pure ๐ฅ. Following the success of Search & Rescue and Slime You Out, this track promises to keep your speakers booming and minds thinking.
๐ต Lyrics & Insights ๐ต
[Skit: Drake & Adonis Graham]
This skit sees a candid conversation between Drake and his son, Adonis, about a piece of artwork Adonis created. The mention of “Daddy Goat” can be seen as Adonis acknowledging his father’s claim to being the Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T) in the music world.
[Intro]
Here, Drake sets the tone, hinting at a raw emotional outpouring. The mention of being “out here on the road” and the shift in his voice reveals the struggles of life on tour and the challenges of fame.
๐ต Verse 1 Breakdown ๐ต
- “The money speakin’ for itself, I call it fortune-tell“:
- Meaning: Drake’s success and wealth are so evident, they predict and dictate his future, much like a fortune teller. It’s a boastful claim of how money has defined his path and can “speak” for his accomplishments.
- “Fire top from a bitch that work in corporate sales“:
- Meaning: Here, Drake is likely making a double entendre. On one level, heโs talking about receiving attention (possibly sexual) from a woman in a professional setting. On another, he’s emphasizing the contrast between his world of music and the corporate world.
- “Chinchilla ushanka, we skiin’ out in Courchevel“:
- Meaning: A picture of luxury and opulence. Drake mentions wearing a chinchilla ushanka (a luxurious fur hat) while skiing in Courchevel, a high-end ski resort in the French Alps known for attracting the rich and famous.
- “Breakin’ news, they tried to kill him, but the boy prevails“:
- Meaning: Here, he could be talking about both literal and metaphorical attempts to bring him down. Throughout his career, Drake has faced criticisms, beefs, and controversies, yet he always seems to come out on top.
- “I leave for tour and my niggas fuckin’ go to jail“:
- Meaning: Highlighting the personal sacrifices and challenges he and his close ones face due to his career. Even as he ascends in the music world, his friends face their own troubles.
- “Preachin’ to the dogs ’bout wantin’ more for themselves“:
- Meaning: Drake has often played the role of mentor and adviser, pushing those around him to strive for better and aim higher, reinforcing the theme of wanting more and doing better.
- “It’s weighin’ heavy on my moral scale“:
- Meaning: He is reflecting on his actions and the decisions he’s made, indicating that they have consequences on his conscience. A moment of introspection.
- “Knowin’ they gon’ sell another citizen ‘cane, they think they Orson Welles“:
- Meaning: A clever play on words. The “citizen ‘cane'” is a play on “Citizen Kane”, a critically acclaimed film by Orson Welles. Drake might be critiquing the media or other rappers, suggesting they’re peddling stories (or perhaps drugs, given the wordplay with ‘cane’ which can allude to cocaine) thinking they’re master storytellers or artists, comparing themselves to the likes of Orson Welles.
- “Walk in Chanel, they like, “How the fuck you need more Chanel?”“:
- Meaning: This highlights the never-ending appetite for luxury and the surprise or judgment he encounters because of it. Itโs also a nod to his love for high-end brands and fashion.
- “I got these cats tuckin’ tails on fourth-quarter sales“:
- Meaning: In the business world, fourth-quarter sales are crucial. Drake is hinting that his success and presence make others (competitors in the rap game or business ventures) nervous or intimidated.
- “I’m used to seein’ tears drop over enormous meals“:
- Meaning: A contrasting image. The joy of success (represented by the ‘enormous meals’) is juxtaposed with the emotional weight or pain (‘tears drop’) that sometimes accompanies it.
- “The restaurant clears out faint echoes of Lauryn Hill“:
- Meaning: A homage to Lauryn Hill, a legendary figure in hip-hop and R&B. Drake might be hinting at how a track or the mere mention of Lauryn Hill can command respect and attention, clearing out distractions.
- “I say, “We gotta talk about us,” I feel like Jordan Peele“:
- Meaning: A reference to filmmaker Jordan Peele, known for movies that prompt deeper societal discussions. Drake is pointing to a need for a serious conversation, perhaps about his relationships or his place in the industry.
- “Could tell I’m gettin’ under your skin like an orange peel“:
- Meaning: Heโs becoming an irritation or concern for someone, much like how an orange peel can get stuck under one’s nails. Itโs a boastful claim, suggesting his influence and dominance.
- “‘Cause your words don’t match your actions like a foreign film“:
- Meaning: Critiquing someone for being insincere or not following through on their words. The comparison to a foreign film might hint at how, in some foreign movies, the dubbing doesnโt match the actorsโ lips.
- “And now it’s silence, tell the sirens that the war is healed“:
- Meaning: After all the battles, be it personal feuds or industry beefs, things have settled, and peace has been restored. A statement of resolution.
๐ต Verse 2 Breakdown ๐ต
- “Diamonds do the silly dance, I raise up the wine glass“:
- Meaning: Drake’s jewelry (diamonds) is so flashy and attention-grabbing that it seems to be “dancing”. While others admire his bling, he’s toasting to his success, unbothered.
- “Metal detectors beepin’ and security bypass“:
- Meaning: His fame and stature come with heightened security. Despite the alarms, he’s given preferential treatment, indicative of his high-profile status.
- “The numbers goin’ up, someone pull up the line graph“:
- Meaning: His success, whether it’s sales, streams, or profits, is on the rise. He’s asking someone to show him the stats to prove it.
- “The days are goin’ by, it’s like I’m living in time lapse“:
- Meaning: Time seems to fly for Drake, perhaps because of his busy schedule or how fast his career has progressed.
- “They talkin’ to Adel like he majored in finance“:
- Meaning: People are consulting Adel, possibly a close friend or associate, for financial advice. Despite Adel not being a finance professional, he’s trusted because of their shared experiences.
- “Shania Twain, note pad, I’m making it line dance“:
- Meaning: A clever wordplay referencing the country singer Shania Twain, known for her upbeat tracks. Here, Drake’s lyrics make people move, just like a line dance.
- “You tryna rob me and it’s gon’ feel like you sittin’ at your favorite restaurant, ’cause nigga, that’s where you dyin’ at“:
- Meaning: A stark warning. Trying to cross or betray him would end badly, likening it to an unexpected tragedy at a familiar place.
- “Mob ties, I swear we like a bitch with fine sisters and fine cousins, the family all bad“:
- Meaning: His crew is deeply connected, like the mafia (‘Mob ties’). The reference to a beautiful woman with attractive relatives means that everyone in his circle is top-notch.
- “I’m preachin’ to the dawgs about cleanin’ they images“:
- Meaning: Drake advises his friends and associates to maintain a good reputation, possibly drawing from his own experiences in the limelight.
- “I swear I’m like a young T.D. Jakes to my menaces“:
- Meaning: Comparing himself to T.D. Jakes, a prominent pastor, he positions himself as a guiding force for those who might stray into trouble.
- “Long kiss goodnight, PDA for my nemesis“:
- Meaning: A threatening farewell to his enemies, referring to the act of showing affection in public (PDA) as a display of superiority.
- “Three hunnid acres, PGA on the premises“:
- Meaning: Boasting about his vast property, hinting that it’s large enough for a golf course (referring to the Professional Golfers’ Association, PGA).
- “That’s what’s really brackin’ like this verse in parenthesis“:
- Meaning: Emphasizing what’s truly important or happening. The “brackin” could be a nod to Blood gang vernacular, indicating loyalty or allegiance.
- “I’m givin’ hits to niggas on some, don’t even mention it“:
- Meaning: He effortlessly produces hit songs for others, and it’s such a casual thing for him that he doesn’t even want credit or recognition.
๐ฅ Verse 3 Breakdown ๐ฅ
- “You young boys take some of that money and set it aside“:
- Meaning: Drake is advising the younger generation of artists to save their money, hinting at the unpredictable nature of the music industry and life’s expenses.
- “Not having enough to pay your tax is a federal crime“:
- Meaning: A straightforward caution against evading taxes. Many artists have faced legal issues because of unpaid taxes, and Drake warns against it.
- “You niggas obsessed with me and it’s not on no hetero vibe“:
- Meaning: Drake acknowledges that many are obsessed with him, analyzing his every move, but it’s not out of admiration or affection.
- “Handle beef so quiet, you think that I’m lettin’ it slide“:
- Meaning: When conflicts arise, Drake handles them discreetly, so much so that outsiders might assume he’s ignoring the issue.
- “Next thing you know, we tip-toeing past enemy lines“:
- Meaning: He moves strategically and silently, especially when dealing with foes, ensuring he always has the upper hand.
- “Diss me so long ago, we makin’ your memories fly“:
- Meaning: Drake’s opponents might have tried to bring him down in the past, but he’s so ahead now that those attempts seem distant memories.
- “Conspiracy theories start floatin’ around like the Kennedy guy“:
- Meaning: Referencing the countless conspiracy theories around President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, Drake notes that wild speculations surround his own life and actions.
- “I’ll prolly hold a grudge against you guys ’til I’m seventy-five“:
- Meaning: He doesn’t easily forget those who have wronged him, hinting that he might hold onto these grudges for a very long time.
- “Ayy, niggas lyin’ for a living, I couldn’t relate“:
- Meaning: Some people are deceitful to maintain their status or image, but Drake cannot resonate with such behavior.
- “We all gotta lay in the bed we make, but that couldn’t be Drake“:
- Meaning: Everyone faces the consequences of their actions, but Drake ensures his decisions won’t lead to unfavorable outcomes.
- “You forced a lot of fake love when real ones stood in your face“:
- Meaning: Some people pretend to show affection or loyalty when, in reality, they’re surrounded by genuine supporters whom they overlook.
- “That’s why you got deserted by your niggas, like pudding and cake“:
- Meaning: Just as pudding and cake can be deserted (or left behind) after a meal, disloyal individuals end up being abandoned by their supposed friends.
- “I got you on camera bowing down, but the footage is safe“:
- Meaning: Drake has evidence of someone showing him respect or submitting to him, but he keeps it private.
- “Thank God, another USB to put in the safe“:
- Meaning: Grateful for another successful project or valuable information, he’s metaphorically storing it safely.
- “Thank God, at the crib, dippin’ my foot in the lake“:
- Meaning: Gratitude for moments of peace and luxury, as he relaxes by a lake at his home.
- “I swear that y’all turning me into the villain, I couldn’t escape“:
- Meaning: Despite his intentions, public perception often paints him as the antagonist, a role he feels pressured into.
- “Not sayin that I’m the best at what I do“:
- Meaning: A moment of humility, acknowledging that he isn’t necessarily the absolute best.
- “I’m just saying it’s me versus whoever wanna lose“:
- Meaning: A competitive spirit. He’s ready to face off with anyone, confident in his winning streak.
- “Pick anyone of the “who’s who’s”, I got two 2’s for new crews“:
- Meaning: A challenge to any established figures in the industry, suggesting he’s doubly ready for newcomers.
- “R.I.P. to the DJ from Houston, we loose screws“:
- Meaning: Paying respects to a DJ from Houston, indicating a shared connection or trait of unpredictability.
- “Helicopters, cop lights, and news crews“:
- Meaning: The consequences or aftermath of some significant event or controversy.
- “Niggas steady cryin’ to my daddy, well, boo-hoo“:
- Meaning: People might complain or seek sympathy from his father, but Drake dismisses their concerns.
- “You probably heard a lot about the Boy, well, true-true, haha“:
- Meaning: Validating the rumors or stories about him, with a playful acknowledgment.
Other Notable Lines
- Cultural References: “Walk in Chanel, they like, ‘How the fuck you need more Chanel?'” – Drake’s relationship with luxury and his recognition in pop culture.
- Family: The inclusion of Adonis, referencing him in lines, paints a picture of a father proud of his child and trying to impart lessons.
- Shoutouts & Mentions: Shoutout to Oliver North and the nod to Jeremiah reveal Drake’s networking prowess. He’s connected and isn’t afraid to flaunt it!
The full lyrics to Drake ‘8AM In Charlotte’
[Skit: Drake & Adonis Graham]
Alright, Adonis, tell me about your beautiful piece of artwork that you sold me
So, it’s the same story
So, the goat was running away from the other mon- from the other monsters, and, and the other animals
And, um, a flower blocking the way
Um, so, the flower’s on fire
The racing car was maybe helping the goat
And there was this, some stairs, who’s like a jail stairs
And there was, and there was, um, one person who was like, on top and he got killed by the stai-by the trap
Okay, so it’s almost like a little story?
Yes
And what is SBW?
So, i-it’s not a word, but I just wanted to write SBW
Okay, you like those letters?
Si
And what, and-and Daddy’s name is next to the goat, does that mean that he’s the G.O.A.T.?
Yes, so it’s Daddy Goat
Daddy Goat? Yeah
That makes perfect sense to me
And you wanna, you wanna talk about how much, how much money you got for your beautiful drawing?
Oh, please (Laughter)
[Intro]
(Conductor, we)
Yeah
I’m out here on the road
You can hear it in the voice
Ah-em, still get this shit off, though
Look
You might also like
Slime You Out
Drake
Another Late Night
Drake
IDGAF
Drake
[Verse 1]
The money speakin’ for itself, I call it fortune-tell
Fire top from a bitch that work in corporate sales
Chinchilla ushanka, we skiin’ out in Courchevel
Breakin’ news, they tried to kill him, but the boy prevails
I leave for tour and my niggas fuckin’ go to jail
Preachin’ to the dogs ’bout wantin’ more for themselves
It’s weighin’ heavy on my moral scale
Knowin’ they gon’ sell another citizen ‘cane, they think they Orson Welles
Walk in Chanel, they like, “How the fuck you need more Chanel?”
I got these cats tuckin’ tails on fourth-quarter sales
I’m used to seein’ tears drop over enormous meals
The restaurant clears out faint echoes of Lauryn Hill
I say, “We gotta talk about us,” I feel like Jordan Peele
Could tell I’m gettin’ under your skin like a orange peel
‘Cause your words don’t match your actions like a foreign film
And now it’s silence in the Lamb’ like the horror film
Things get quiet after me statin’ the obvious
Things get kinky after fifteen years of dominance
That October sky is lookin’ ominous
The money is autonomous
Shoutout to Oliver North, he out in Rome doin’ Toronto shit
And Jeremiah the watchdog, you niggas know what time it is
I’m in and out of Houston Hobby so much, I’m a hobbyist
Hoes waiting on Cench in the lobby, that boy a lobbyist
Savage got a green card straight out of the consulate
Where I go, you go, brother, we’re Yugoslavian
Formal is a dress code, dawg, so many checks owed, I feel Czechoslovakian
Nigga, what the fuck?
[Interlude]
Nah, I’m movin’ different right now, for real, like
I feel like if Mike switched out the glove for the pen, like
This shit just too enticing right now, you know?
Look
[Verse 2]
Diamonds do the silly dance, I raise up the wine glass
Metal detectors beepin’ and security bypass
The numbers goin’ up, someone pull up the line graph
The days are goin’ by, it’s like I’m living in time lapse
They talkin’ to Adel like he majored in finance
Shania Twain, note pad, I’m making it line dance
You tryna rob me and it’s gon’ feel like you sittin’ at your favorite restaurant, ’cause nigga, that’s where you dyin’ at
Mob ties, I swear we like a bitch with fine sisters and fine cousins, the family all bad
I’m preachin’ to the dawgs about cleanin’ they images
I swear I’m like a young T.D. Jakes to my menaces
Long kiss goodnight, PDA for my nemesis
Three hunnid acres, PGA on the premises
That’s what’s really brackin’ like this verse in parenthesis
I’m givin’ hits to niggas on some, don’t even mention it
[Interlude]
Like, don’t even worry about it, like
You can hit me back whenever, or-
Or don’t, you know?
It is what it is I guess
Yeah, hm
Look
[Verse 3]
You young boys take some of that money and set it aside
Not having enough to pay your tax is a federal crime
You niggas obsessed with me and it’s not on no hetero vibe
Handle beef so quiet, you think that I’m lettin’ it slide
Next thing you know, we tip-toeing past enemy lines
Diss me so long ago, we makin’ your memories fly
Conspiracy theories start floatin’ around like the Kennedy guy
I’ll prolly hold a grudge against you guys ’til I’m seventy-five
Ayy, niggas lyin’ for a living, I couldn’t relate
We all gotta lay in the bed we make, but that couldn’t be Drake
You forced a lot of fake love when real ones stood in your face
That’s why you got deserted by your niggas, like pudding and cake
I got you on camera bowing down, but the footage is safe
Thank God, another USB to put in the safe
Thank God, at the crib, dippin’ my foot in the lake
I swear that y’all turning me into the villain, I couldn’t escape
Not sayin that I’m the best at what I do
I’m just saying it’s me versus whoever wanna lose
Pick anyone of the “who’s who’s”, I got two 2’s for new crews
R.I.P. to the DJ from Houston, we loose screws
Helicopters, cop lights, and news crews
Niggas steady cryin’ to my daddy, well, boo-hoo
You probably heard a lot about the Boy, well, true-true, haha
[Outro]
Yeah
Be grateful, that he was there
Final Thoughts
Drake’s “8AM in Charlotte” is more than just a song. It’s a testament to his journey, his struggles, and his undeniable mark in the music industry. Every line, every beat, every nod – it’s pure Drizzy. For those who’ve been riding with him since IDGAF, this one’s for you!
๐ฅFor more sizzling takes and deep dives into the world of music, stay tuned with Mandy at MandyNews.com. We’ve got the latest, the greatest, and the most definitive takes on all things buzzing! ๐ฅ
Share your story with us! Email MandyNews1@gmail.com
Source: MandyNews.com
