Released: 2018 • Features: Lil Uzi Vert
“Shoota” by Playboi Carti featuring Lil Uzi Vert exists as an anthem of ascendancy, showcasing two artists unafraid to bask in their success. It’s a triumphant preening of material wealth, braggadocious exploits, and overwhelming confidence, riding the wave of fame and notoriety in the hip-hop scene.
The opening verse from Lil Uzi Vert sets the stage with reminders of his evolution from an average joe to a celebrated hip-hop artist. Phrases like “Took your girl and I’ma score like I made the touchdown” deal with his newfound status and sexual prowess. When Uzi mentions driving a Lambo’ and wearing a bustdown, flashy symbols of wealth replace former desires like a G-Shock watch. He likens his car to “butter” – smooth, luxurious, and visually rich, reinforcing his elevated lifestyle.
When Uzi says, “Suicide, 1600, that’s the block,” he’s alluding to his roots and the tough neighborhood he emerged from. He also paints a picture of a woman who once ignored him but is now sexually attracted due to his fame.
The chorus is a powerful assertion of their status in the game, not to be messed with. “Woke up with my toolie, what it do?” refers to carrying a gun, a symbol of authority and power. “I got red shooters, I got blue” implies having people from different gangs (Bloods and Crips are often associated with the colors red and blue) ready to back them up. Pointing ‘that thing’ down is a direct threat — a show of power.
“Bentley or the ‘Rari, ho, let’s choose” shows Carti’s wealth to the extent he has luxury choices like selecting between a Bentley and a Ferrari. “We gon’ rob the bank, bring the loot” metaphorically expresses that they’re about to make major financial gains, possibly through a new project or album. It’s about capturing the rap game and coming out on top, schooling other artists while they’re at it.
“Money on the floor just like some shoes” signifies the abundance of wealth they’ve accrued through their stardom. It’s so plentiful; it’s disregarded, strewn about like a pair of shoes. Using “thot” (an acronym standing for “that hoe over there”) Playboi Carti is likely implying he’s no stranger to sexual encounters, another mark of his fame. The repeated line “Don’t talk to me, just talk to my lil’ dude” exhibits Carti’s elevated status where he doesn’t need to deal directly with those he deems beneath him.
All in all, “Shoota” is a high-energy boastful song. Carti and Uzi assert their eminence, celebrating their journey from the bottom to the top while warning potential adversaries to steer clear of their paths.
