Released: 2021
In ‘Bubble Bass’ by Joeyy, the artist explores themes of indulgence, self-assuredness, and living an unapologetic lifestyle. The track is peppered with references to substance use, navigating personal and professional spaces with confidence, and flaunting an ostentatious demeanor. The song embraces a confident narrative where the protagonist uses charm and charisma to maneuver through life.
The hook begins with Joeyy stating, “Sparrow, Ching the pilly ‘cus I only need half,” suggesting a minimalistic yet intentional approach to drug use. “Ching the pilly” can be interpreted as taking pills or using drugs. “Gift of Gab” indicates the ability to persuade and charm others, aligning with his desire to navigate life his way, discarding what’s unnecessary, much like taking only half of something needed.
The phrase, “If you’re two then I’ll take a hard pass,” showcases a discerning attitude. In hip-hop slang, calling someone “two” can imply they’re not up to par or just mediocre. By dismissing them outright, Joeyy reflects confidence in his personal standards and choice of associates.
The imagery in, “Cup full of mud with a 30 on my lap,” refers to codeine cough syrup (often called “mud” when mixed in a drink) and having a gun on his lap (the “30”). This creates a portrait of someone who’s deeply embedded in a lifestyle where drugs and danger coexist, a reality common in hip-hop narratives where vulnerability is masked by bravado.
“Transactions, I turned the Copelow to the trap” implies a transformation of an ordinary space into a hub for drug dealing or illegal activities. ‘Trap’ refers to places where drug sales occur, and the ‘Copelow’ could be interpreted as a once mundane or clean area turned into something lucrative and dangerous. This speaks to themes of adaptability and seizing opportunity.
With “Goody Two Shoes, drop the deuce in a glass,” Joeyy illustrates duality. The term “Goody Two Shoes” typically describes someone excessively well-behaved. However, ‘dropping the deuce’ or consuming drugs defies this persona, suggesting an embrace of vices while maintaining an outward facade of respectability.
The chorus reflects an ethos of reckless abandon as Joeyy professes his inability to refrain from spending his money, indicated by, “I’ll spend it all, can’t keep my grubby paws out my bag.” It paints a picture of a person who indulges without restraint, emphasizing his addiction to materialism and hedonism.
As Joeyy walks through ‘night school without a pass,’ he depicts himself as someone defying societal rules and norms. This imagery implies a certain rebelliousness and a refusal to adhere to standard educational pathways, possibly an analogy for navigating life on his terms.
The reference to Plankton, a character from “SpongeBob SquarePants,” by saying, “DTA keep one eye open, I’m Plankton,” portrays Joeyy as vigilant and slightly paranoid. In this line, “DTA” or “don’t trust anybody,” conveys a worldview where caution is key, and alliances are uncertain, drawing parallels to Plankton’s sly nature.
In closing, the song blends everyday scenarios with pop culture references and introspective commentary on living on one’s own terms, inviting listeners to appreciate both the struggles and triumphs within Joeyy’s reality. ‘Bubble Bass’ showcases Joeyy’s wit, lyricism, and the playful yet edgy style of storytelling common in contemporary hip-hop.
