Released: 2024
The song “Outside” by G Herbo featuring GloRilla and Mello Buckzz paints a vivid picture of life in the streets, centered around themes of violence, community presence, and asserting dominance in their environment. Each artist brings their own unique perspective, discussing their lifestyle, challenges, and triumphs as they navigate their worlds.
The hook of the song repeatedly emphasizes being ‘outside.’ This refers to the idea of being present, active, and dominant in their community and neighborhood. In street vernacular, ‘outside’ implies involvement in activities that may be illicit or dangerous, signifying that they are out in the open and unafraid of confrontation. The frequent call of “where” different groups of people are suggests a keen awareness of their social circle and rivals, highlighting the constant vigilance required in their lifestyle.
G Herbo’s verse begins with detailed instructions that simulate giving directions to an unknown accomplice, potentially indicating an operation or hit, signified by ‘turn right’ and ‘make a left.’ This line draws listeners into the reality of orchestrating plans, where movements are calculated and intentional. His line “how the opps keep dyin’?” is an expression of disbelief or possibly mockery, suggesting that his enemies or “opps” aren’t able to evade their fate because they ‘don’t be outside’ like he is, symbolizing their lack of readiness or capability.
Further into his verse, G Herbo boasts about his determination and resilience despite adversities (‘I’m gon’ grind when they hate’). His mentions of not wearing a mask can imply an air of fearlessness or invincibility, underscoring a hardened approach to his environment. There’s a clever wordplay on the relentless cycle of money, drugs, and violence (‘Money went, I came, drugs came…’) emphasizing the lifestyle many lead in these communities, perpetuated by systemic issues and street economy.
As the chorus reinforces the song’s central theme of being ‘outside,’ it juxtaposes the lifestyle of hustlers and those on the fringe of legality against a backdrop of social gatherings, hinted by ‘where the bitches at’ and ‘where the hoes at.’ This highlights a duality of their world — business and leisure co-existing on the streets.
GloRilla’s verse contributes a feminine perspective while maintaining the streetwise ethos. She makes references to feeling empowered (‘Do it for the culture, I be feelin’ like, I’m Cardi B’), underlining her influence and stature. Her reflection on relationships (‘I can’t keep a nigga…’) highlights the personal tolls and realities women face in such environments, often grappling with fidelity and loyalty issues.
Mello Buckzz brings energy and charisma to her verse, flaunting her confidence and capability (‘I get to clappin’ like the choir’). This analogy of violence to church choir clapping suggests the speed and precision with which they act, seamlessly merging an otherwise benign image with harsh street realities. Her remark on possessing a ‘switch’ implies her access to a gun, an unfortunate reality for many.
The repeated reference to “a homicide” throughout the song starkly underscores the potential and very real consequences of their lifestyle. The acknowledgement of these outcomes in the repeated chant almost ritualizes the occurrence of violence as a normalized element of their day-to-day.
In conclusion, “Outside” reflects not just on the hard truths of street life but also the intricate social dynamics within it. G Herbo, GloRilla, and Mello Buckzz paint a vivid picture of how being ‘outside’ involves staking one’s claim and constantly navigating threats, socializing, and thriving in an environment where strength is often gauged by presence and notoriety.
Ultimately, this song offers a glimpse into a world driven by loyalty, survival, and a stark confrontation with violence, highlighting the resilience required to maintain status and safety. Its historical context within hip-hop touches on long-standing traditions of storytelling, neighborhood pride, and the oft-celebrated bravado necessary to survive and excel in environments filled with both risk and opportunity.
