Released: 2019
Calboy’s “Chariot,” featuring Meek Mill, Lil Durk, and Young Thug, serves as a bold proclamation of triumph over adversity. The song vividly captures the lifestyle that emerges from a combination of street hustle, affluence, and relentless ambition. Throughout the track, the artists portray themselves as embodiments of resilience and success, displaying a combination of street-savvy narratives and opulent imagery.
The hook of “Chariot” serves as the backbone of the song, asserting Calboy’s unapologetic attachment to his hustler roots. Lines such as “Fresh out the trap and they know how I carry it” signal his mastery over his domain. His proclamation of “Fell in love with the game and I married it” encapsulates the theme of commitment to a lifestyle born from struggle but leading to wealth.
Calboy opens the first verse with vivid descriptions of his rise. He narrates spending ‘two hundred thou’ for the walk on a Saturday’ and maneuvering a luxurious Phantom through the projects. Here, the metaphor of a “chariot” underscores a kingly return to his neighborhood, flaunting his accomplishments through “diamonds on diamonds.”
In this verse, Calboy highlights how his background shaped him, crediting the trenches for his savvy. The artist reveals the tension between his roots and the persona he embodies, especially as wealth prompts others to see him as “acting different.” Despite the riches, there’s a rawness that remains in his transactions, showcasing an authentic bond with the streets.
Meek Mill jumps in with verses that blend raw storytelling with tales of wealth accumulation. His lyrical flex about “racks” spent and opulent lifestyle choices reinforces the hard-won affluence. By mentioning staying armed and the preparedness for war, Meek illustrates the continuous undercurrent of danger, portraying wealth as both an achievement and a protective shield.
The collaboration of Meek, Young Thug, and Lil Durk on this track adds a rich diversity of experiences and street credibility. Each brings their own flavor to the song, turning it into a collaborative testament to success, despite adversities. Meek, known for his own battles, layers in personal struggles that mirror those faced by many of his fans.
Lil Durk’s input focuses on loyalty and authenticity. Through lines that dismiss distractions and highlight a focus on making money, Durk’s segment stresses priorities in life shaped by street hustle. His commitment to his crew and disdain for ‘lil shawty’ type relationships capture the gritty reality and focus needed to thrive in this world.
Young Thug’s verses paint an extravagant lifestyle with a distinctive twist, detailing everything from “Nipsey blue Range Rover” to a colorful ‘gay parade’ of diamonds. Young Thug’s portrayal is more of a fantastical reflection of the heights one can achieve, once more reinforcing the theme of elevated status.
The narrative closes on a strong note, reiterating themes of struggle and success, resilience and opulence. Calboy’s reference to his trap roots juxtaposed with high luxury serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between one’s beginnings and the lofty aspirations they strive to achieve.
Historically, songs like “Chariot” can be seen as cultural signifiers, depicting a generational struggle that extends beyond mere materialism to capture themes of survival and perseverance. This track fits into the broader context of hip-hop as a platform for stories of overcoming and ultimately celebrating hard-won victories.
