Released: 2022 • Features: Benny The Butcher, Westside Gunn
“John Woo Flick” by Conway The Machine, featuring Benny The Butcher and Westside Gunn, is a bold assertion of dominance and power, with a strong undercurrent of menace. These artists intertwine a narrative of the gritty and often dangerous realities of street life with their success in the rap industry. The song reflects their journey from a life shrouded in violence and struggle to their current fame and status, while not forgetting their roots and the price they paid for success.
At the heart of the song is a recurring phrase – “Sprayed 80, the baby woke up” – a chilling portrayal of gun violence intertwined amongst everyday life. They make use of distinct slang – “sprayed” refers to firing a gun, specifically an automatic one that “sprays” bullets rapidly. The stark contrast between the violent act and the mundane detail of a baby waking up, repeated throughout the piece, serves to highlight the harsh reality of the environment they come from, where violence is so commonplace it becomes woven into the fabric of daily life.
Words and phrases like “bakin’ soda” and “MAC and a K” are street terms for drugs and guns, respectively. The artists cleverly weave these into their lyrics to give listeners a glimpse into their past lives. The sense of danger and street credibility is emphasized through their comparisons to intimidating figures like Larry Johnson and Aaron Rodgers, both known for their power and dominance in their respective sports. Conway portrays himself as the “Kobe Bryant” of his team, exuding confidence and leadership.
Benny the Butcher’s verse adds more insight into himself and his crew’s background. He talks about being ready to act if threatened and the seriousness of the choices they’ve had to make – choices that could result in life imprisonment or even death. His clever wordplay around things like “Wayne Perry shit” versus “Wayne Bradys”> contrasts real tough characters with softer, safer images in popular culture, emphasizing the tough realities they’ve lived through.
Westside Gunn’s lines are filled with references to luxurious brands like “Off-White” and “Dior Homme” – a stark contrast to the gangster lifestyle narratives in the previous verses. He also mentions religious terms like “ahk” (an Arabic term for brother), and “Insha Allah” (God willing), suggesting his Muslim background. This mix of luxury, faith, and street life offers a complicated but authentic portrait of his journey.
Overall, “John Woo Flick” presents a vivid snapshot of these artists’ story, their rise from volatile beginnings to their present success without forgetting where they came from. It’s a testament to their survival, ambition, and ultimate accomplishment, all wrapped in a powerful hip-hop anthem.
