Released: 2017
The song “Culture” by Migos featuring DJ Khaled is essentially a triumphant declaration of success and influence within the hip-hop industry. The track reflects themes of overcoming doubt, material success, and asserting dominance over those who ever doubted the group’s influence or status. DJ Khaled’s energetic ad-libs enhance the grandeur and assertive nature of the message.
The hook kicks off the song with DJ Khaled announcing the Migos’ upcoming ‘CULTURE’ album. He is famous for his motivational style and recurring phrase “Another one”, which is present here. This introduction immediately sets a tone of celebration and declaration of success, targeting those who underestimated or tried to undermine Migos. The repetition of “Another one” emphasizes their consistent success and further establishes their dominant position.
The first verse sees Quavo, one of the Migos, laying out a scene of opulence and triumph over adversaries. Lines like “Spin off in the coupe, typhoon” and “Young rich nigga in the room” speak to the group’s luxurious lifestyle and financial success. Quavo uses slang like “skrt skrt”, mimicking the sound of tires squealing, to add a playful yet boastful tone to his declarations.
Continuing, Quavo employs metaphors to underline his lavish way of living. He references “wrappin’ that dope, cocoon” and “finesse a nigga, no raccoon”, blending street vernacular with vivid imagery. This hints at a history of hustle and strategic maneuvers in the street scene, indicating that they’ve earned their current status through wit and savvy.
He follows with lines that signify an ever-growing financial portfolio, mentioning “spendin’ M&M’s in June”. “M&M’s” refers to millions of dollars, highlighting his carefree expenditure and financial success. Taking “a trip to Cancun” serves as a classic image of wealth and leisure, rounding out this section of material boast.
DJ Khaled jumps back in to emphasize their accomplishment and hype the listener up with repeated affirmations. The frequent mention of the upcoming ‘CULTURE’ album within the lyrics builds anticipation and pride around their musical endeavors, presenting the album not just as music, but a cultural landmark.
In the second verse, Offset takes the reins, diving into a depiction of street survival and gritty realities juxtaposed with wealth. He illustrates these themes through metaphors of breaking the law, dodging authorities, and obtaining substantial wealth despite societal obstacles. Lines such as “I broke my wrist in the pot” convey illegal activities as a pathway to success.
Offset paints a picture of his street credibility with imagery such as “JJ Watt is on the block”, drawing parallels to football and intense street actions. Here, he mixes sports references to amplify the struggle and relentless effort needed to succeed. His boast of “Kept me runnin’ from the cops” portrays a defiance against authority, cementing his hard-earned success story.
In his lines, the blend of lifestyle contrasts is prominent, “Pourin’ lean on the rocks” depicts a leisurely yet reckless enjoyment of life. These descriptions embody a life balanced between grit and grandeur. By highlighting luxury with “mink fur, that’s a fox”, Offset merges elements of danger and decadence in his narrative.
The song closes with DJ Khaled and the Migos together reinforcing their status and the forthcoming album. DJ Khaled repeats “CULTURE album soon come”, marking the song not just as a boast, but a statement of cultural contribution. It stands as a bold testament to Migos’ growth from the streets to mainstream cultural icons, positioning them as flag bearers for their generation’s cultural sound.
