Released: 2024
YoungBoy Never Broke Again, or NBA YoungBoy, often reflects on his turbulent life and personal struggles through his music. In ‘Tears of War,’ the overarching theme is the inner battle he faces, dealing with the trauma of his past while striving to maintain his success amidst the chaos of street life and personal betrayal. The lyrics reveal a young man caught between his violent environment and his desires for something greater.
The hook in ‘Tears of War’ revolves around a haunting confession. The phrase “tattoo tears of war” signifies the deep emotional and psychological scars YoungBoy bears. These scars aren’t just reminders of battles he’s fought in his personal life, but also symbolizing the never-ending war he’s waging against external enemies and internal demons.
YoungBoy kicks off the verse by challenging anyone questioning his fearlessness, asserting that murder talk doesn’t scare him because his life has always been on the edge. Here, ‘slide for what?’ is street slang for retaliating against perceived threats or disloyalty. His mention of driving a brand-new Benz in Palermo sets a scene of solitude, highlighting his need for isolation even amidst luxury, portraying wealth not as comfort but a mere backdrop to his struggles.
He reflects on past relationships, notably with a woman named Vea, acknowledging past mistakes and contemplating his journey, using symbols of success like the ‘Wraith’ (a Rolls-Royce) to express aspirations while wrestling with regrets. YoungBoy implies he’s distanced himself from people who might exploit him, evidenced by clearing out his safe and dismissing ‘clowns’ from his life.
As the verse progresses, he delves into the strained relationship with family and former allies, naming figures like Stunna and Carter, showcasing betrayal and mistrust. The use of violent imagery like tearing a show up with .40s and wanting a baby despite disloyalty in relationships exposes the conflict between his destructive lifestyle and yearning for stability.
YoungBoy explores the depths of his personal agony, feeling abandoned and misunderstood by both loved ones and the public. ‘Blowin’ my strap several ways’ is a vivid depiction of engaging in violence and the sense of inevitability he associates with his dangerous lifestyle. It’s a reflection of how deeply ingrained the street mentality is within him, leaving little room for change.
The lyrics touch on how appearances deceive, highlighting the stigma against his appearance when he mentions his nails, only to undermine societal norms by embracing what makes him different. His candid vulnerability in ‘nail you to a cross’ suggests a mix of anger and defiance towards critics who question his authenticity and lifestyle choices.
Through evocative imagery and candid confession, YoungBoy recounts various events, from committing acts with friends like Boozilla to internal family struggles with figures like Meechy. Each narrative thread exposes the interplay of loyalty, deceit, and ambition, emphasizing the paradox of seeking solace within chaos. His willingness to admit vulnerability in love contrasts with his harsh exterior, revealing depth beyond the persona of toughness.
There’s an unmistakable resignation towards the end, where YoungBoy acknowledges the high stakes of his existence, epitomized in lines about expecting betrayal and bracing for his downfall. This admission isn’t just about external threats but internal vulnerabilities that keep him from achieving peace. It’s a stark acknowledgment of his awareness of life’s fleeting victories and losses.
Overall, ‘Tears of War’ paints a picture of a young man grappling with fame, loyalty, and inner turmoil. While he’s aware of his ability to shine, the ongoing struggle with his demons remains a prevalent theme. Historically, YoungBoy’s work echoes the experiences of many rappers from similarly volatile backgrounds, serving as a modern narrative of the enduring impacts of systemic inequality and street life.
