Released: 2025
“By Myself” is a contemplative track that sees Lil Baby, Rylo Rodriguez, and Rod Wave reflecting on the journey from hardship to success, with a recurring theme of self-reliance despite facing betrayals and challenges. The song navigates the highs and lows of their journey, painting a picture of how past struggles have forged their resilience, and touches on themes of trust, betrayal, and loyalty. Each artist brings their personal narrative to the song, making it a heartfelt and introspective anthem.
The hook, primarily carried by Lil Baby, emphasizes the sense of isolation and betrayal the artist feels. The lyrics express his disbelief and hurt over how people he thought would support him have instead turned their backs. He highlights how despite achieving success, which he assumed would bring happiness and loyalty from others, he faces more jealousy and betrayal than before. The recurring mention of self-reliance is a central motif here, underscoring the artist’s message that he ultimately had to rely on himself.
In the first verse, Lil Baby sets the scene by describing the stark realities of his environment. The reference to “pounds all on the counter” signifies involvement in the drug trade, while “watchin’ the cameras” indicates the constant vigilance required in such a lifestyle. He addresses the risk inherent in his life choices, likening life to a gamble, a metaphor that captures both the uncertainty and stakes of his past and current life.
Lil Baby continues to convey the disconnect between expectations and reality. He expresses disillusionment over the lack of support from those he helped, noting how wealth has not insulated him from feeling “shambles” or discontent. The phrase “life in shambles” indicates turmoil, which contrasts sharply with the material success he’s achieved. There’s a poignant reflection on the idea that money can’t buy true loyalty or happiness.
The hook returns with an emphasis on Lil Baby’s perseverance. Despite being let down by others, he underscores his unwavering dedication to supporting family and staying true to himself. The line about giving his grandmother whatever she wants underscores his familial loyalty and sense of responsibility, illustrating the dual nature of his achievements—they empower him to help his family but also highlight the personal cost of his journey.
Rylo Rodriguez takes the spotlight in the next verse, bringing his own gritty narrative to the fore. He talks about loyalty, betrayal, and his interactions with the law, conveying a life steeped in the reality of systemic challenges and personal conflicts. His mention of cutting off a brother due to breaking the law shows how deeply he values principles, despite the personal pain it brings.
Rodriguez also delves into the theme of financial success and its complications, mentioning how money has both elevated and isolated him. The allusion to a “thousand on a tractor-trailer” and “doing it by myself” showcases both his entrepreneurial success and the burden of carrying his struggles independently. It’s a stark reminder of the isolating nature of his achievements—while his successes are grand, they are accompanied by solitude.
The final verse sees both reflection and ambition mingled. The lyrics mention Lil Baby’s progression from humble beginnings to a life that involves international travel and significant financial gain, depicted metaphorically through his “projects to loading up a PJ.” However, the celebration is tinged with caution as he remains acutely aware of potential downfalls, betrayal from close quarters, and the reality of legal threats looming over his life.
As the chorus re-emerges, there is a reinforced sentiment of self-reliance despite the longing for support. It acknowledges a blend of triumph and hardship, symbolized through familial shout-outs and the repeated phrase “did it by myself.” The song encapsulates a message that while community and familial ties are pivotal, self-dependence is crucial to navigating the complex and often treacherous world the artists inhabit.
In conclusion, “By Myself” serves as a powerful testament to Lil Baby, Rylo Rodriguez, and Rod Wave’s journeys. Each artist lends a personal touch to the song, resulting in a multifaceted exploration of themes such as perseverance, betrayal, and self-reliance. The track highlights the harsh reality of their experiences while showcasing their resolve to continue striving for success amidst adversities, cementing its place as an anthem of endurance in hip-hop.
