Released: 2024
“YOU CRY LOVE” by jev. delves into the realities of navigating life’s trials, as it explores themes of faith, survival, and the societal pressure that can be placed on individuals. This song contrasts spiritual reliance during hardship with the struggle of staying true to oneself amidst external challenges. Through personal reflection and evocative storytelling, jev. paints a vivid picture of his life and experiences.
The song begins with an atmospheric repetition of sounds “Uh Uh” and “Yeah yeah,” which sets the mood and lays a rhythmic foundation for the themes to unfold. The refrain “Only pray to GOD when they need a favour” suggests a critique of those who turn to faith selectively, highlighting a transactional view of spirituality. This can be seen as a broader societal observation where spirituality is sidelined unless individuals find themselves in dire straits.
In the subsequent lines, “In the court, hit a lick, like I see you later,” the lyrics transition into a portrayal of criminal acts as survival tactics, likening quick schemes or “hitting a lick” to securing a future moment of peace or success. “They was lying on that boy, that’s my nemesis” suggests an antagonistic force spreading falsehoods or attacking one’s reputation, showing how external opposition often threatens personal peace.
“Fuck the end, let me tell you about his genesis,” marks a pivot in the narrative, inviting listeners to delve into the origins of the protagonist rather than focusing solely on outcomes. The notion of a “genesis” invokes a fresh beginning or the essential backstory that informs present actions and identities, underlining the importance of past experiences.
jev. then uses vivid imagery in “Cleanse the evil spirits out my studio” and “it’s weighing heavy on my back, man I get scolio” to express the emotional and physical burdens carried in the creative space. This implies that the creative process is not only artistic but also therapeutic, as the studio becomes a place for confronting inner demons.
By stating “Been at the top for the longest, fuck your vertigo,” jev. speaks to the challenges of maintaining success, with ‘vertigo’ metaphorically illustrating the dizziness or disorientation from prolonged success and the expectations it brings. The artist’s acknowledgment of this sensation contrasts the fleeting highs of achievement with its accompanying pressures.
Referencing OVO, a well-known music label associated with success and credibility in the industry, jev. reinforces his desire to continually elevate his career with “I’m back to back with it, I should sign to OVO.” This line conveys his confidence and perseverance to push boundaries despite the hurdles encountered.
Reflecting on formative years, jev. recalls being “only 13 when I heard those screams” of violence, an initiation into a world where safety isn’t guaranteed. “Go ahead, get down they shooting” echoes real experiences of youth exposure to crime, where survival instinct is ingrained early, significantly impacting development.
A pivotal moment emerges when jev. mentions “Lil bro, barely ever come outside, I know he never tell.” This implies a bond strengthened through silence, possibly touching on loyalty in a world that pressures individuals to conform or betray. It’s a nod to the codes of trust that develop within certain communities.
As the track nears its conclusion, there’s a contemplative plea “Pray you find your peace fore the day you drop drop.” This serves as a call for introspection and finding tranquility amidst chaos. “Pray when you grow your wings you find that love love,” concludes with an optimistic hope for personal growth and fulfillment beyond life’s current struggles, highlighting faith and hope as continual sources of strength and guidance.
