Released: 2017
In ‘Never Lose,’ Meek Mill offers a hard-hitting anthem that radiates determination and resilience. The track pulsates with the spirit of overcoming adversities, making it clear that defeat isn’t in Meek’s dictionary. With Lihtz adding a gritty feature, the song weaves a tale of persistence through struggles and triumphs against the odds, aiming to inspire anyone who listens.
The song kicks off with a repetitive chant, “I will never lose,” immediately setting the tone of tenacity. It’s a mantra, both simple and powerful, echoing the artist’s relentless drive and unwillingness to succumb to life’s pressures. Meek emphasizes that losing is not an option, reflecting a mindset that has helped him survive and thrive.
Diving into the first verse, Meek speaks about authenticity and living his truth. He boasts of luxury with lines like “Flooded Rollie, tryna kill time,” which portrays wealth and the lifestyle that accompanies his success. The imagery of timepiece brands such as “Raf Simons” signifies not just opulence, but also the hard work behind affording such luxuries. Through these lines, he asserts that no matter the external pressures, his internal light will shine unaltered.
Lihtz’s contribution provides a deeper dive into the themes of survival and overcoming adversities. He discusses his journey from “selling crack” to becoming successful. Here, the imagery of his early life contrasts with the lavishness he enjoys now, showcasing a ‘rags-to-riches’ storyline. His lyrics reflect a stark honesty about his past and an unshakeable commitment to betterment.
The hook reiterates a central theme of perseverance, showcasing a straightforward message: resilience in the face of challenges. Repeated assertions that he will “never lose” work to engrain the listener with the same mindset, reinforcing the determination he exhibits throughout his verses. It’s an auditory emblem of never backing down, no matter the adversity.
In the second verse, Meek reflects on past hardships and betrayals. Phrases like “seen my dawgs turned their backs” underscore feelings of mistrust and betrayal by those he once considered close. It’s a vivid depiction of navigating through personal trials while building an empire and maintaining authenticity despite adversities.
Meek further delves into experiences with the music industry and his critics. Mentioning his battle with Reed and partnership with Rick Ross provides context to his professional journey. His progression from street battles to rubbing shoulders with big names is testament to his growth, while the line “all this controversy I’ve been through” highlights resilience amidst public scrutiny.
By the song’s end, the hook reiterates, and the intensity of Meek’s delivery seems to rise. It’s as if every time he repeats, “I will never lose,” it gains more weight, speaking directly to his fans and those who doubt him. The repetition doesn’t just solidify his message; it resonates as a personal and public reminder of his commitment to perseverance.
This track isn’t just a flex of material success; it’s an homage to the struggle, paying respects to fallen friends with lines like “Rest in piece to Snupe, Scooter, and Truz.” These mentions reflect both grief and a reminder of the battles fought alongside him, underscoring the narrative that success comes at the cost of losses.
Overall, ‘Never Lose’ encapsulates Meek Mill’s indomitable spirit, painting a portrait of success won through sweat and resilience. It’s not merely a victory song but a battle cry for anyone rising above their circumstances. Whether addressing street cred, personal vendettas, or life achievements, Meek Mill wraps all these narratives in one strong, unified message of victory against all odds.
