Released: 2021
Big K.R.I.T.’s song “Piece On Chain” primarily revolves around themes of wealth, success, and legacy. Through vivid imagery and intricate wordplay, the rapper delves into the celebration of his accomplishments, represented symbolically by the chain. The chain is more than a mere accessory; it’s a testament to his hard work and stature in the hip-hop industry.
The hook of the song sets the tone for what Big K.R.I.T. aims to convey throughout the track. By repeatedly mentioning “I put the piece on chain,” he’s emphasizing his success and self-worth, akin to crowning himself a king in his own right. The chain becomes a powerful emblem, signifying both financial achievement and personal identity.
Big K.R.I.T. declares his kingship not just through wealth, but by solidifying it as part of his identity and legacy—”Forever a king, I put that on my name.” In hip-hop culture, jewelry like chains often symbolize success and power. K.R.I.T. uses this imagery to assert his place in the industry.
When he speaks about “If she ’bout that pole she keep it going around and around,” it’s likely referring to a stripper working the pole, a common theme in hip-hop that relates to the hustle and making money. The ‘going around and around’ might suggest a cyclical nature of this lifestyle, akin to how K.R.I.T. perceives his own grind and constant movement.
In the first verse, Big K.R.I.T. dives into his skills and efforts in the rap game with the lines, “If rapping is acrobatics, I’m making it flip.” Here, he’s metaphorically suggesting that his rap skills are dynamic and adaptable, like acrobatics, enabling him to ‘flip’ or succeed regardless of circumstances. The following line about things shining “like a light” might symbolize the spotlight on his achievements and craft.
Continuing his lyrical journey, K.R.I.T. reflects on his experience and ambition with “I was sharpening mine, tryna’ go for the kill.” This line speaks to his dedication to honing his craft in order to reach the top and amass wealth. The line “try to get me a mill, fly a private Alliance” underlines his financial aspirations and the lifestyle he’s pursuing through his art.
In another powerful image, K.R.I.T. places himself on “Mount Olympus,” a mythical representation of his superior status. This paints him as a godlike figure in the rap game, one who is “highly anticipated” and ever motivated. This not only underscores his ambition but also highlights the recognition he seeks for his efforts.
There is a notable transition to introspection when K.R.I.T. reminisces “Since I was in Granny’s kitchen I knew I’d get grater later.” The homophone of “grater” plays on words, suggesting both a kitchen tool and a metaphor for becoming “greater.” It showcases his long-term vision and self-confidence from a young age.
Moving forward, Big K.R.I.T. doesn’t shy away from showcasing his lavish lifestyle with mentions of “the whip on swang,” an indicator of Southern car culture and wealth. The use of “swang” points to cars being a status symbol, where the artist connects his success with his upbringing in the South, an integral part of his identity and storytelling.
In wrapping up the song, K.R.I.T. underscores the authenticity and roots of his success. The notion that “It ain’t worth getting if you don’t get it right out the dirt” highlights the importance of hard work and perseverance in achieving true success. It’s an assertion of his integrity and belief that one should earn their accolades through effort rather than shortcuts. Thus, the song comes full circle, ending where it began: celebrating his relentless grind, continuous motion, and the legacy he’s building as a king in his domain.
