Released: 2021 • Features: The Alchemist
Steering straight into the heart of hardcore street life, “Great Adventures” by Boldy James, featuring The Alchemist, is a relentless ride into the grimy realities of the hustle. Right from the opening lines, the rapper sets the stage, painting a picture of survival and struggle in a world often ignored by mainstream narratives.
Diving into the first verse, Boldy James starts with the description of a high-moving lifestyle, using metaphors like ‘hopping out that black van’, drawing comparisons to vigilante squads like the A-Team. He juxtaposes this by referring to himself as Batman, another symbol of rebellion, but from a darker perspective.
The line ‘Bleed ’em like a Tampax’ is an intense metaphor for robbing someone, showing just how gritty and unforgiving his world is. Boldy continues with ‘last pill I took, went on a bad trip’, potentially referencing a grim past laced with substance abuse. ‘Spot off on crack spit / We cop and crash whips’ further deepens this path of self-destruction and chaos.
Later, he makes references to ‘Chauncey Billups’ and ‘Chucky Atkins’, both NBA athletes, using them as symbols for seeking success and scoring big. Towards the end of the verse, he refers to a ‘drive-through trap on West Grand Boulevard’, painting the picture of an operation set in the underworld dealings of his city.
The second verse further delves into the grim details of gang life. ‘Just took the staples out his stomach ’bout a month ago / He took off with a cake and we chopped up his mother bungalow’, Boldy recounts violent reprisals and dangerous escapades. His lyrics also shed light on the risks that come with the game, including run-ins with authorities evident in the line ‘Got snatched up by the detectives, wanna know what I know.’
‘Had to line my ducks in a row / Tell ’em check the score’ insinuates strategic planning and the control he’s gained over his life circumstances, anchoring the focus back to his resilience amidst the chaos. Finally, the line ‘Three seconds left, inbound pass was Scottie Pippen’ is a clear reference to an iconic moment in sports, highlighting his ability to clutch the win in dire situations.
In its entirety, “Great Adventures” is a raw and unapologetic exploration of the struggles encountered in the cycle of street life, underscored by Boldy James’ undying survival spirit. Whether it’s crime, substance abuse, or the never-ending hustle, Boldy doesn’t shy away from making his listeners confront these realities head-on.
