In “99 Problems”, JAY-Z navigates through a maze of tribulations, ranging from scrutiny of his lyrics and racial profiling by the law enforcement, to street beef. Despite the chorus that claims “If you’re havin’ girl problems I feel bad for you son, I got 99 problems but a bitch ain’t one,” let’s underline from the jump that Hova ain’t implying that women are problems. Instead, the term “bitch” explores multitudinous scenarios where Jay’s met with adversities, none of which are romantic woes.
The first verse has Jay firing shots at critics who see him merely as a hustler-turned-rapper, disregarding his lyrical prowess and understanding of the business. When he raps “Foes that want to make sure my casket’s closed, Rap critics that say he’s ‘Money Cash Hoes’,” he’s challenging the narrative that his success is solely due to his hustler past. He emphasizes his intelligence andmusical craftmanship, unapologetically asserting his place in the game.
Verse two goes heavy on the law enforcement profiling him due to his race and success. The line “I heard ‘Son, do you know why I’m stoppin’ you for?’ ‘Cause I’m young and I’m black and my hat’s real low?” is a stark consequence of racial profiling faced by Black people in America. Jay refuses to be intimidated, standing his ground and knowing his rights during this encounter, a clear nod to the pervasive police harassment in Black communities.
The third verse delves into street politics, where Jay discusses dealing with individuals who try to provoke confrontation. Lines like “This is not a hoe in the sense of havin’ a pussy, But a pussy havin’ no goddamn sense try and push me” takes the recurring “bitch” metaphor and transforms it into an antagonistic character that causes trouble.
In the end, “99 Problems” is both a defiance and a celebration. JAY-Z, in his iconic style, takes the hardships he’s faced and turns them into a narrative of survival and success. He’s got 99 problems, but he isn’t backing down. The song is a testament to his resilience and his unapologetic ownership of his narrative. It’s quite clear, Jay ain’t trying to be the hardest or the toughest; he’s merely a man who’s conquered his environment and is ready to spar with anyone who questions his claim.
