Released: 2023
Trippie Redd’s song “1716 Osage” paints a vivid picture of bravado, personal loss, and ambition, combining intense imagery with reflective undertones. At its core, the song grapples with themes of violence, success, and personal evolution, while peppered with references that display a blend of vulnerability and defiance.
The repeated refrain “You, you, you (yeah, yeah, yeah)” acts as a haunting echo, giving the listener an eerie feeling, perhaps illustrating an omnipresence of a person or a feeling that looms large over the narrative. It serves as an intro and backdrop that lays down the thematic foundation for the song’s storyline.
The verse opens with Trippie Redd vividly depicting his readiness for confrontation with the phrase “March like a motherfuckin’ band with that K.” Here, “K” likely refers to an AK-47, suggesting he’s prepared for battle. It’s a metaphorical march that conveys a strong sense of movement and determination. His mention of “standin’ on shit” implies steadfastness in his convictions or lifestyle, hinting that his opponents or adversaries “lay” where they stand.
“You in that way, you gon’ die today,” further reinforces the themes of danger and the high stakes associated with his lifestyle. This could be seen as a message to those who cross him, reflecting the precarious balance he navigates. It indicates a willingness to confront any threats to his peace or progress head-on.
The mention of “Goth Money” and “Kray” likely nods to both subculture influences and a sense of nostalgia or identity tied to them. Kray is a reference to Fredo Kray, a rapper and friend, highlighting the importance of camaraderie and collective identity in Trippie’s life. Getting “high” while “fadin’ away” introduces a dual theme of escapism and mortality.
He alludes to Tina Turner’s famous “eat the cake” line in “Tryna eat that cake like Anna Mae,” connecting themes of indulgence and potential disrespect. Blue racks in the safe suggest wealth accumulation, aligning with common motifs in hip-hop of flaunting success, security, and power. “Play with me, you lay” is a refrain indicating that meddling in his affairs would result in serious repercussions, reaffirming the aggressive posture seen earlier.
Trippie reflects on the pace of his life, crafting verses “up in a day,” hinting at his prolific creativity and success. An “Ocean view” and having the “wave” suggests his vantage point in the industry, implying both a sense of calm and the force behind his influence.
A noteworthy segment is Trippie’s contemplation on love and pain, where he mentions being “tired of love,” a metaphor for disillusionment, culminating in throwing his heart into “VIP.” The line “I’m Lil Wayne but my gun walk, walkin’ with a limp” is a clever juxtaposition, showcasing both influence from Lil Wayne and his gritty, weapon-toting reality. It’s this blending of metaphorical and literal references that creates a dynamic portrait of his identity.
Acknowledging “R.I.P. to Nip'” is a powerful moment where he respects the late Nipsey Hussle, showcasing his awareness of hip-hop’s broader community and history. The mention of foreign luxury, high-profile relationships, and substantial financial goals underscore Trippie’s dreams and the pressure to succeed, post-personal loss.
The concluding segments reflect Trippie’s acknowledgment of life’s chaos and his desire for transcendence—both in fame and internally. Lines about “hitting trees” with “Mary Jane” tie into recreational use of marijuana as a form of escape. Ultimately, the song cycles back to introspective thought, emphasizing how the trappings of success intersect with existential questioning and personal introspection.
