Released: 2023 • Features: A$AP Rocky, Roisee
“Am I Dreaming” by Metro Boomin featuring A$AP Rocky and Roisee hits the ground running as an existential contemplation wrapped in a slick, atmospheric beat. At its core, the track is a narrative of resilience, self-reflection, and the universal search for like-minded souls navigating the tumult of life’s adversities. It’s a sonic journey through doubt, struggle, and the unyielding human spirit to rise above.
The song opens up with a heavy heart, the lyrics echoing the internal monologue of someone who’s been through the wringer yet refuses to lay down the gloves. “Not done fighting, I don’t feel I’ve lost” sets the tone—this is not a defeatist anthem but a declaration of indefatigability. The repeating question, “Am I dreamin’, is there more like us?” speaks to the isolation often felt by those who bear their battles quietly, desperately seeking kindred spirits. The crux of these opening lines is a raw, unfiltered look into the soul of anyone who’s ever felt beaten but not broken.
A$AP Rocky dives in, grounding his verse in the reality of his ascent from hardship to high life, yet never losing sight of his roots. “Wakin’ up, feelin’ like the thankful one” isn’t just a line—it’s an acknowledgment of gratitude amidst the chaos. Rocky’s reflection on his journey from “down bad in my folk’s crib” to “laughin’ to the bank” illustrates the transformational arc of struggle to success. However, it’s not just about financial ascent; it’s about the community, “My rich friends and my broke friends co-exist,” highlighting the melding of worlds and the universal human experience regardless of background.
The hook reiterates the theme of resilience and the relentless pursuit of dreams against all odds. It’s a call to arms for those wrestling with self-doubt and external pressures, a reminder that giving up isn’t an option. The metaphorical battle depicted here transcends the individual, touching on a collective longing for understanding and acceptance in a world that often feels too heavy to bear alone.
As the song progresses, the message becomes clearer—facing adversities head-on, embracing oneself, and the courage to stand alone if necessary. “I can’t find it in myself to just walk away” isn’t only about persistence; it’s a deeper dive into self-discovery and the unbreakable will to keep moving forward. There’s an undercurrent of defiance against the forces that wish to see one fail, an assertion of self-worth and determination.
The closing verses and repeated choruses serve as an emotional crescendo, reinforcing the song’s soul-stirring message of hope, perseverance, and the never-ending quest for connection. “Am I Dreaming” isn’t just a song—it’s a resonant call to those who have fought their demons and dared to dream, encouraging listeners to remain steadfast, no matter the odds.
At its essence, “Am I Dreaming” is a beautifully crafted reminder that even in our darkest hours, we’re not alone in our struggles. It champions the human spirit’s capacity to endure and thrive amidst adversity, making it a timeless piece in the annals of hip-hop and a beacon of light for anyone in search of solace and strength.
