Released: 2011 • Features: Cory Gunz
“6 Foot 7 Foot” by Lil Wayne featuring Cory Gunz, is a lyrical tour de force, exploring themes of power, hustling, and the pursuit of success against all odds. The song alludes to their rough upbringing and the strength they had to muster to fend off adversity.
The opening lines “Six-foot, seven-foot, eight-foot bunch” is a direct sample from Harry Belafonte’s “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song).” Here, it’s employed as a symbolism of domination and intimidation, speaking to Lil Wayne’s towering presence in the rap game. Wayne introduces himself with a series of metaphors and word play. The ‘F’ he refers to in “‘F’ is for finisher” stands for ‘Ferrari’, Wayne’s nickname in the streets of New Orleans.
Weezy further solidifies his stature in the industry with the lines “Young Money militia, and I am the commissioner,” referencing his own label, Young Money Entertainment. He deftly uses family as a metaphor to describe life’s harsh realities, throwing a pun on his independence in the industry line, “It’s all in the family, but I am of no relation.”
Wayne’s braggadocious side emerges in “Black and white diamonds, fuck segregation!” He’s boasting about his expensive, iced-out jewelry. He also takes time to taunt his competitors with his success, comparing them to “Honey Nut,” a lighter version of the original cereal, implying they’re not on his level.
The second verse sees Wayne getting self-reflective, admitting he’s had his heart broken and despite his fame, he hasn’t lost touch with his roots-“Just talked to Moms, told her she the sweetest.” He even incorporates a clever play on words, “Real Gs move in silence like lasagna,” a line that has since become quotable in hip-hop culture, referring to the silent ‘G’ in the word ‘Lasagna.’
The song’s final verse has Cory Gunz taking the mic, continuing the theme of grit and determination. He references his Bronx roots and his relentless grind to make it in the industry. He also gives a nod to Young Money boss Lil Wayne, with the line “Wayne signed a fiend,” cementing the bond between the two artists.
Overall, “6 Foot 7 Foot” serves as an assertive proclamation of Lil Wayne and Cory Gunz’ triumph over their struggles and their rise in the rap industry. It’s a testament to their resilience, and a tribute to those who helped them along the way.
