Released: 2013
Migos’ track “Since When” encapsulates themes of self-affirmation and relentless success. The song reflects the rapper’s lifestyle of wealth, fame, and defiance against skepticism. Through its lyrics, Migos confront those who doubt their accomplishments by listing their achievements and positing rhetorical questions about their hustle and prowess.
The hook of “Since When” consists of a series of rhetorical questions, a common device in hip-hop to assert dominance and address haters. The repetitive questioning emphasizes their achievements, like counting money (checks) and showing off (flexing). It conveys an incredulity toward any suggestion that they have ever not been successful. It’s a clear signal to naysayers that the group’s success is undeniable and ongoing.
Moving into the first verse, Quavo takes the mic, beginning with questions that challenge anyone who doubts his lifestyle, implying a past steeped in financial and material success. By mentioning brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci, he solidifies the image of wealth. When he refers to ‘sippin’ codeine and ‘rockin’ Louis,’ it’s a vivid portrayal of living lavishly yet recklessly, embodying the quintessential trap lifestyle.
Quavo also drops a historical nod when he mentions ‘Since ’91, I was gettin’ it in’, pointing to his roots and longevity in hustling. His brag about ‘250 for the lenses’ alludes to expensive eyewear, indicating the substantial income to support such luxuries. This imagery builds up an atmosphere of affluence while suggesting that these accolades were achieved against all odds.
When Quavo says he laughed at a doctor who advised him to lay off lean for his kidneys, it illustrates a brash, rebellious attitude towards authority. It further conveys the mentality of living in the fast lane, despite knowing the potential consequences. The mention of ‘two bitches in the kitchen, water whippin” ties back to themes of drug dealing and street entrepreneurship, crucial elements in hip-hop lore.
The verse continues to exude a sense of invincibility with lines like ‘Niggas try to rob me, I wouldn’t risk it.’ Here, Quavo implies that he’s too well-protected and prepared for any threats against his wealth or safety, further building on the theme of unassailable dominance. His rhetorical questioning further punctuates his standing, stating it as a fact rather than a point for debate.
The transition to Offset in the subsequent verse carries forward the same confidence and thematic essence. He raises similar rhetorical questions that highlight his affluent lifestyle, questioning ‘Since when I ain’t pull up in a Jag? Since when I ain’t pull up in a Benz?’ This reinforces his consistent ability to own luxury vehicles, underscoring wealth and success.
Offset touches upon relationships and encounters with women, typical of the genre’s emphasis on sexuality and desirability. ‘Since when I ain’t take your ho?’ speaks to the perception of his influence and desirability in personal relationships, emphasizing control and charisma.
His references to foreign cars and living life as if he’s in a ‘movie’ highlight the glamour associated with their lifestyle. Additionally, when he says, ‘Call me young Quavo, Tom cruisin’,’ it’s a wordplay on the actor’s name, insinuating a high-paced, action-packed lifestyle synonymous with that of Tom Cruise in his iconic movie roles.
In conclusion, “Since When” by Migos encapsulates a confident, almost braggadocious look at their successful lifestyle, reflected through money, luxury items, cars, and dominance in personal relationships. It dismisses any notion that their fame is unfounded, attributing their accomplishments to long-term hustle and determination. This track stands as an assertion of identity within the broader context of hip-hop culture, echoing traditional themes of wealth, influence, and legacy.
