Released: 2019
“The Box” by Roddy Ricch embodies the grind and hustle of street life while flaunting the successes that come from it. Ricch melds a narrative of defiance, luxury, and unfaltering ambition throughout the track, backed by a hauntingly catchy production that had everyone and their mama trying to hit that ‘ee-er’ sound.
The song kicks off with Ricch pulling out a coupe from the lot, painting a picture of a fresh ride straight outta the dealership—a symbol of success. “Fuck 12, fuck SWAT” is a clear and unapologetic dismissive attitude towards law enforcement, where “12” is slang for police. “Bustin’ all the bells out the box” likely refers to moving weight, possibly kilos, from a ‘box’ or a safe spot, signifying Ricch’s involvement in the drug game. “I just hit a lick with the box” implies that he’s made a significant amount of money through a deal or robbery associated with this ‘box’. “Had to put the stick in a box” switches it up to mean he’s had to stash his gun, staying ready for any potential confrontations.
Ricch then talks about his work ethic, “Pour up the whole damn seal, I’ma get lazy.” He’s referring to sipping lean, which is a mix of codeine cough syrup and soda, and it’s known for its sedative effects, indicating he’s unwinding after putting in work. However, Ricch’s “lazy” is different—the man stays productive. “I got the mojo deals, we been trappin’ like the ’80s” reflects his success in what we can interpret as modern-day drug dealing, drawing a parallel to the crack epidemic of the ’80s which was a time of intense and lucrative drug trade.
In the hook, he mentions a transaction so good it’s as if the girl “sucked a nigga soul”—it’s that deep. “Gotta Cash App” here is literal; it’s the modern way of receiving payment quickly and directly. “Told ’em wipe a nigga nose” adds layers—either talking about taking care of potential snitches (“wiping noses”) or referring to gunplay, using “slatt, slatt” as an ad-lib that’s associated with gang culture and brotherhood. Ricch stands firm, “I won’t never sell my soul,” which is a testament to his integrity in an industry that’s notorious for its compromises.
The following verses delve deeper into Ricch’s lifestyle and mindset. He moves around in a bulletproof Cadi’, emphasizing the need for protection given his status and the “water” or wealth that others covet. Mentioning the “Draco with me, Dwayne Carter” is an ode to Lil Wayne and a reference to packing heavy heat. The shoutout to Vince Carter with “I done put my whole arm in the rim” is a nod to success and ballin’ out, suggesting he’s deep in the game like Carter’s iconic dunks. Ricch doesn’t miss the chance to drop luxurious imagery with “double C’s” for Chanel and a “pink slip,” which means he owns his cars outright, no lease, no loans.
He flexes his excessive spending on the “Patek” (a luxury watch brand) and his influence to the point he’s “about to get the key to the city.” The audacity jumps out when he says, “I’m a 2020 president candidate,” showing us there are no limits to his aspirations, even referencing putting bands on Zimmerman—a direct statement on the value of Black lives by highlighting the infamy of George Zimmerman, the controversial figure in the Trayvon Martin case.
In the end, Ricch asserts his rise from the mud and his drug-hustling past to becoming “street-wealthy.” It’s a narrative of resilience, of a street-savvy individual elevating to the pinnacle of hip-hop success while remaining true to his roots. Ricch’s lyrics in “The Box” are layered with slang and references that might fly over the average head, but they’re a testament to his reality, a reality soaked in the relentless pursuit of success, defiance against the system, and the gritty glamor of the hustle.
