Released: 2024 • Features: Fridayy
Ayo, let’s dive deep into “Get Back Up” by Pressa, a gritty narrative that slides through the blinds of street life, breaking all the rules and unapologetically revealing the raw realities that are often only talked about in hushed tones. Weaved around the central theme of resilience and loyalty, two foundational pillars of hip-hop, the track is a testament of Pressa’s and Fridayy’s triumph against trials, defining their path in the unforgiving world of the streets.
The plot thickens right off the bat when Pressa spits “I had to cut an ounce in pieces, I was onto somethin’/I flip a brick a couple times to really see a profit”. Here, he’s essentially talking about his early days hustling, trying to multiply his money by dealing drugs, a confession that sets the tone for the rest of the song. The comparison between falling in love with chains and becoming more infatuated with watches draws attention to his materialistic desires, a common theme in hip-hop representing status and success achieved against the odds.
Our homie then channels his inner spiritual vibe with “There’s times I manifested things and also prayed for it/I knew eventually come, I had to wait for it”. This speaks to his belief in the power of attraction, the patience needed, tied to the motifs of faith and destiny which lace his verses. He’s forthright about the risks he’s taken to make it, juxtaposing it with a sly wordplay when he states, “See, I’m a Taurus with a Glock but I don’t do Taurus”. Here, he’s referring to both his zodiac sign and a popular firearm brand, but clearly stating his aversion to drama.
The chorus takes a turn into a deeper sentiment when he says “If you ever fall down, I would pick you back up”. This could possibly be interpreted as a call to loyalty, reaching out to his squad, promising them unconditional support as they navigate the tough terrain of the streets and the game. The sentiment is continued with the reassurance “and if I’m never not around, you know where to find me”, offering a sense of comfort amidst the chaos.
As the song progresses, Pressa touches on various aspects of street life and the struggle for survival with lines like “He ain’t kill nobody but the feds hold him accountable”. Here, he’s critiquing the system which often holds individuals responsible for actions they didn’t commit, a harrowing reflection of the miscarriages of justice common in marginalized communities. At the same time, he doesn’t shy away from the cold realities of the streets when he says, “You see my block is like a zoo, it’s full of animal”.
By the third verse, Pressa shifts gears to his newfound fame and prosperity. He drops bars on his acquisitions – his Escalade, the love in the hood, the respect that came with his rise – all while playfully intertwining cultural references “They paintin’ pictures in the hood, just like Picasso”. Yet, he takes the time to remember his roots, expressing love for his homies and calling them family.
Overall, “Get Back Up” is a gritty celebration of survival and the embodiment of street life triumphs, paralleled by the constant promise of support and brotherhood. The lyrics are a raw reminder of the tenacity it takes to transform struggle into success, but also a sincere pledge of loyalty that rides the highs and lows of life on the streets.
