Released: 2024
G Herbo’s “Feel This” is a raw and candid exploration of the rapper’s rise from humble beginnings to living a life of luxury. It delves into themes of struggle, survival, and perseverance in a harsh environment, where street life is both a challenge and a teacher. Herbo contrasts his past with his present, demonstrating the dramatic transformation he has experienced, both personally and financially.
The hook immediately sets the tone for the song, emphasizing seriousness and determination with the phrase “When you see us, you know we mean business.” It’s an assertion of confidence and intent, showing that G Herbo and his crew are not to be underestimated. The mention of DJ Victoriouz further anchors the track within the realm of hip-hop credibility, as the DJ plays a crucial role in authenticating the message.
In the opening lines, Herbo juxtaposes grueling ’12-hour slave shifts’ with his current lifestyle, where he enjoys the freedom of luxury, specifically mentioning yachts. The reference to “slave ship” metaphorically represents a past of hardship, whereas his present-day life stands as a testament to his perseverance. It’s an inspiring leap from working class struggle to wealth, highlighting how far he has come.
Throughout the first verse, Herbo addresses the numerous enemies or “opps” he’s faced. Despite the threats, he reflects on surviving without offering an ‘explanation,’ indicating a tough resilience born out of necessity. The theme of war, particularly how it doesn’t have an expiration, speaks to the ongoing challenges he navigates. There’s a gritty acknowledgment of living on the edge and dealing with desperation through violence and retaliation.
Herbo paints a vivid picture of his youth, “lost, burnt exhaust, no destination,” with the absence of ‘OGs’—slang for older guides or mentors. His experiences have forced him to adopt a mentality where he must fend for himself, navigating the harsh realities of street life. The frequent imagery of carrying a gun “on my hip” underlines a readiness for conflict, further underlined by the insistence of no ‘hesitation.’
Imagination and patience are highlighted as key traits that have propelled Herbo to success. The ‘bag waiting’ symbolizes wealth or opportunities he seeks to attain. His reflection on hustling while others were lazy suggests a relentless drive to succeed against all odds. As the lyrics move through his achievements, such as upgrading from humble beginnings to now owning expensive watches, Herbo is showcasing the material proof of his hard-earned success.
Herbo returns to his childhood environment, describing it as devoid of role models and opportunities like ‘Wall Street,’ instead surrounded by ‘dope fiends.’ This stark contrast illustrates a neighborhood mired in poverty and drug culture. Yet, there’s an ironic nod to the value within it, “they money green,” subtly appreciating the grit required to survive and succeed in such circumstances.
Luxury and its implications take center stage as Herbo reveals how far-reaching his success is. Not only do people desire his wealth (‘they just want a buck from me’), but they also crave proximity to his lifestyle. His position necessitates caution, where distrust is second nature—indicated by his readiness to protect himself and the imagery of pulling a weapon ‘might up this bitch.’
The later verses reveal Herbo’s reflective nature. There’s a notable lament about loyalty and gratitude towards those who stayed by him, illustrating the treacherous dynamics within friendships and business in the streets. He discusses the value of money as a force that rules the world, bringing envy and potential threats. Yet, he expresses an acceptance of this as part of the reality he inhabits, concluding that he wants to be celebrated and crowned like a ‘king.’
In the end, G Herbo loops back to his humble origins, reiterating the cycle of poverty, gun culture, and dreams of success. The song encapsulates a journey through hardship, loneliness, and a yearning for a better life. “Feel This” is a call to empathize with the struggles faced and a demand for acknowledgment and respect, wrapping up a powerful narrative that blends raw emotion with triumph. It stands as a testament to the endurance required to transform dreams into reality.
