Released: 2024
Future’s song “SKI” captures the unrelenting pursuit of wealth, power, and indulgence, all wrapped up in a backdrop of lavish lifestyles and street culture. With heavy references to drugs, luxury, and the consequences of living life on the edge, the track conveys a high-energy atmosphere and confidence inherent in Future’s music. It’s a mix of bravado, survival, and an unapologetic embrace of the hustler lifestyle.
The hook in “SKI” – “I’m ready to slide, ski, ski / I’m ready to surf, ski, ski / I’m goin’ berserk, ski” – epitomizes a readiness to dive into action. The term ‘ski’ here may represent quick movements and agility, paralleling a life full of fast-paced decisions and daring actions. The repetition underlines an insatiable energy and eagerness, portraying Future’s attitude of being ever-prepared to tackle challenges, whether in the club or in the streets.
Opening with the line, “Ain’t gon’ let up on these niggas like I’m Yola,” Future establishes his relentless drive. Yola, a street term for cocaine, hints at a consistent high level of intensity. Dropping “another eighth inside my soda” indicates codeine syrup consumption, reflecting both his luxury habits and a certain dependence, which ties into a broader narrative about the vices accompanying fame.
Future takes listeners on a shopping spree with, “We inside the Prada store, it’s cowabunga.” Here, ‘cowabunga’ evokes excitement, emphasizing the thrill he gets from lavish spending. This spending isn’t just about the material goods but the freedom and status it represents, particularly when he’s able to flaunt this lifestyle at will.
Further down the lyrics, Future mentions, “Droppin’ the top on the ‘Vert / I been pushin’ the coupe through the slums.” The ‘Vert refers to a convertible car, symbolizing wealth and freedom. This juxtaposes the ‘slums,’ highlighting the dichotomy of his past versus present, or a lavish life rising from humble beginnings, showing both resilience and transformation.
When Future raps, “Fuckin’ the check up and get it right back,” it points to the ephemeral nature of wealth. While the line seems to reflect carelessness with money, it also displays his confidence in earning it back, a nod to his success and persistent hustler spirit. His assurance of always regaining lost wealth illustrates both his financial savvy and bravado.
He declares, “I polluted my cup, ain’t no love for no slut,” demonstrating a rejection of superficial relationships. The phrase “polluted my cup” likely refers to the mixing of codeine syrup into his drink, again emphasizing indulgence and escape through substances. There’s a clear disconnection from deeper relationships, replaced by the quick thrill and satisfaction that money and substances can bring.
References to designer brands like Chrome Hearts highlight Future’s affinity for opulence and high fashion. He consistently juxtaposes street life and luxury, weaving them seamlessly into his narrative. His frequent mentions of wealth and branded accessories also underscore the persona of success he cultivates both in the music industry and beyond.
In “Sippin’ on red / Two choppers sittin’ by the bed,” Future paints an image of preparedness and indulgence. “Sippin’ on red” implies consuming a specific type of cough syrup with codeine (a common drink in hip-hop known as “lean”), whereas “choppers” refers to guns. These lines indicate a lifestyle that’s both extravagant and vigilant, living in a world where luxury coexists with danger.
Concluding with a reflective tone, “Took a chance, had to ride with the slatt,” where ‘slatt’ is a term often used in association with gang loyalty and unity. The line suggests taking risks alongside close allies, highlighting themes of loyalty and brotherhood amidst the chaotic, fast-paced life he leads. This camaraderie underpins the solo persona often depicted in his songs, adding depth to his otherwise flashy and self-centered lyrics.
Future’s “SKI” stands as a bold statement of self-assuredness and indomitability in the face of the luxury and dangers inherent in his lifestyle. Reflecting the larger hip-hop narrative of triumph over adversity and the pursuit of material success, Future integrates both the highs of financial accomplishment and the accompanying lifestyle choices into this vivid musical piece. In doing so, he stays true to the complex tapestry of emotions and experiences that characterize modern rap, grounded in authenticity and lived experiences.
