Released: 2019
Yo, let’s dive into Lil Tecca’s joint “Ransom” that’s got the streets buzzin’. This track is all about Tecca’s swift rise in the rap game, flexin’ on his newfound wealth and the flipside of fame. He’s putting on blast those who doubted him and switching up the game by holding his unique flow for ransom — essentially saying his style’s so coveted, it’s like a hot commodity everyone’s after.
Kicking it off, “I got black, I got white, what you want?” sets the scene with Tecca flaunting his expansive wardrobe—or deeper than that, it’s a nod to his versatility in the game. Then he hits us with “Hop outside a Ghost and hop up in a Phantom,” — those are whips, luxury cars, ghosts and phantoms, talking about moving from one big-ticket ride to another, showcasing that high-roller lifestyle. “I know I’m ’bout to blow,” he’s aware his moment is now, his talent undeniable, and as his rep gets bigger, there’s folks out to jack his style. But Lil Tecca ain’t playing, he’ll take their attempts and flip it, making them pay up, holding it “for ransom.”
Then he rolls into “I got two twin Glocks, turn you to a dancer,” where “two twin Glocks” likely mean his protection—firearms—pointing out how he has to stay strapped ’cause of his status. But these bars could also be metaphorical; his lyrics and beats are making waves, making people move, like dancers. Peep the wordplay here, it’s slick. When he says “I see two twin opps, leave ’em on a banner,” these “opps” are his enemies, and “leaving them on a banner” can be taken as marking his territory, making an example out of anyone who steps to him.
Then we delve into the hook where Tecca’s flexing luxury brands — Chanel, Balenciaga, Louis V and Vuitton. He’s dripping in designer gear from head to toe, and when he hits Milan, it’s all about that Fendi, Prada. This is a young king talking about his rise from the “bottom” to living that lavish life where diamonds are so heavy, “they weigh a ton.” But it ain’t just about the shine; it’s also about the grind. The “opps” hate on him ’cause of his success, but they don’t even know him, just the rep of his hood.
Tecca also touches on fakes wanting to slide into his life now that he’s on top. “But you ain’t want me last year, so just get up out my face” — he’s calling out those who slept on him and now want to cozy up because he’s hot in the streets. They’re all trying to “get a taste,” but he knows the game, seeing through the phoniness, suggesting some might be wishing for his “downfall.”
The track keeps looping back to that hook, reinforcing the idea of his come-up and the shallow, clout-chasing culture that comes with fame. “I got two thick thots, wanna lick the gang, yeah” — it’s clear that Tecca’s talking about women trying to get close to him and his crew, emphasizing the superficial relationships prompted by his success.
Overall, “Ransom” by Lil Tecca ain’t just a track to nod your head to; it’s a story of transformation, an anthem for those who come from nothing to something. It’s about guarding your art, recognizing your worth, and not letting the leeches get a piece of your pie without paying the price. It’s clear Tecca’s wise beyond his years, understanding the pitfalls of rapid fame while enjoying the fruits of his labor. He’s laying it down, claimin’ his spot in the rap game and lettin’ everybody know he ain’t one to be played with.
