Released: 2020
Boldy James, a notable voice in the Detroit hip-hop scene, delivers a contemplative and raw narrative in “Bentayga.” The song navigates through the grittier sides of street life, reflecting on experiences of hustle, loyalty, and survival. Boldy uses his lyricism to portray the realness and harsh truths of his environment, delivering lines filled with vivid imagery and cultural references.
In the song’s introduction, “BoJack” is mentioned, which might hint at BoJack Horseman, a popular TV character known for his complex and troubled nature, setting a tone for introspection and internal conflict. This instantly sets a gritty, street-wise scene where Boldy prepares to lay down his story. The opening line “Let’s get it” is a rallying cry, establishing momentum and setting the listener up for a lyrical journey through the realities of his world.
Boldy quickly dives into life on Van Dyke, a well-known area in Detroit, aligning his hustle to that of a seasoned baseball pitcher, “pitchin’ like Verlander.” This comparison suggests a skilled, calculated, and successful approach to his hustle, similar to the mastery of famed MLB pitcher Justin Verlander. He references never being a “stair glancer,” suggesting he stays focused, undistracted by fleeting success or dangers in his environment.
The line “So anti with the pole, last of the Airbenders” implies a readiness to defend himself, likening himself to a warrior from the animated series “Avatar: The Last Airbender.” This metaphorically paints him as unique and powerful in a field of ordinary people, emphasizing his toughness and determination. The phrase “wipe his nose, these niggas square dancers” carries a dual meaning: “wiping one’s nose” is slang for taking out an opponent, and “square dancers” may refer to those who lack realness or authenticity, moving predictably and foolishly.
When Boldy mentions “Burnin’ Dolce dough, no, this ain’t my first rodeo,” he conveys familiarity and comfort in handling wealth or power, while turning around “like a hoedown” indicates maneuvering deftly in a tight situation. The following line further reflects on experiences “down in the okey-dokes,” meaning places or scenarios fraught with challenges or deceit, reminiscent of deceptive “hokey pokey” games.
The lyrics continue to highlight opulence juxtaposed with street savvy through a vision of success—”Never seen a marina with Selena laid up on the coast.” Here, Boldy illustrates a lifestyle of luxury and indulgence, mentioning fashion staples like “Valentino” and “Supremo,” pointing to a world of high fashion and conspicuous wealth.
With a transition back to gritty reality, “My scale dusty, weed and my clientele musty” reflects on his history of dealing and street trades, acknowledging the reality that the job is as grimy as it is lucrative. Trust and loyalty are fundamental in Boldy’s narrative, emphasized in “Give a fuck how niggas feel as long as Arielle trust me,” highlighting personal connections as vital amidst a precarious lifestyle.
“On the run from that federal cell in the country” evokes a feeling of paranoia and tension, acknowledging the legal dangers looming over street activities. He sharply notes the grim outcome for many—”if you ain’t dead or in jail, then you lucky,” a candid assessment of life on the streets, filled with perils.
The emotional weight is particularly present as Boldy reflects on “feelin’ lonely ever since the death of Duffy,” alluding to personal loss that adds layers of depth to his music. “All my nigga wanted was a Rollie and a pair of Buffys” sums up the simple dreams often crushed by reality—a luxury watch (Rollie) and Cartier glasses (Buffys), marking aspirations amidst struggles.
Overall, Boldy James in “Bentayga” gives us a profound look into his world through lyrical prowess, drawing vivid portraits of his life and times. His words tell stories of ambition, sorrow, and the grind of street life, artfully balanced between showcasing triumphs and acknowledging losses. This track reflects not just personal experiences but echoes broader narratives familiar to those within similar environments.
