Released: 2024
Young Nudy and Metro Boomin come together on ‘John Wayne’ to deliver a raw, gritty anthem. The track captures a street-hardened persona, inspired by the legendary cowboy John Wayne, but flipped into a modern gangster narrative.
The song starts with a nostalgic note, remembering teenage dreams stolen by street life. The hook sets the tone, comparing Nudy to John Wayne with ‘two guns on my side, I’m ready to slang somethin’,’ signaling his readiness for action.
In the verses, Nudy details his lifestyle with vivid imagery. ‘I don’t rock no skully, this a ski mask, bitch, I’m on my shit’ paints a picture of his readiness for anything. The ski mask represents his life in crime, ready to act fast and stay hidden.
He emphasizes his dominance and willingness to use violence if necessary. ‘First nigga move, blaow, bitch nigga, get down’ shows he’s not afraid to take down anyone who steps out of line. This no-nonsense attitude reflects the tough street life he’s part of.
The mention of ‘Big Slime’ throughout the song ties into Nudy’s persona. ‘Big Slime, boy, you on somethin’,’ highlights his unpredictable nature. It’s a nickname that underscores his influence and reputation in the streets.
Lines like ‘I’m a real slimy ass bastard’ and ‘greasy ass trapper’ indicate his pride in being a crafty and untrustworthy figure. It’s a badge of honor in his world, where cunning and ruthlessness are necessary for survival.
Nudy also addresses his involvement in the drug trade. ‘Selling ’em that rabbit food, bitch nigga, I’m a classic goon’ shows his pride in tricking others with low-quality drugs, reinforcing his sly, street-smart persona.
The repeated references to guns and violence, like ‘I’m ready to stretch me a nigga out,’ emphasize his readiness to defend his turf at any cost. It’s a grim reality where every moment could turn deadly.
Despite the harshness, there’s a sense of pride and acceptance in Nudy’s tone. He knows the game he’s in and plays it without remorse. This unapologetic stance is a core part of his identity.
Metro Boomin’s production enhances the gritty feel of the song. The dark, heavy beats create an atmosphere that matches Nudy’s tough, unyielding lyrics. It’s a perfect backdrop for this street narrative.
