Released: 2018
A Boogie Wit da Hoodie’s track “The Reaper” takes the listener through a chilling exploration of fear, street credibility, and loyalty. Throughout the song, he emphasizes his untouchable nature, cementing his presence as someone to be reckoned with. The theme revolves around survival in the dangerous world of street politics, showcasing his experiences, fears, and loyalty to his circle, while navigating fame and fortune.
The song begins with an eerie tone set by the repeated phrase “very afraid.” This opening hooks the listener, hinting at the gravity of A Boogie’s presence and reputation. By starting the song with this chant-like refrain, he suggests that there are individuals trying to tarnish his name, perhaps out of jealousy or rivalry. The notion of ‘dirt on my name’ underscores the tension and conflict often present in the life he describes.
A Boogie’s mention of driving luxury cars, like the ‘big body Mulsanne,’ immediately contrasts with his struggles, depicting his rise from nothing to enjoying the fruits of his labor. ‘Going right off the brain’ signifies his raw, unscripted flow and possibly the real-time nature of his thoughts and experiences that he channels into his music. This line suggests spontaneity and authenticity, which are hallmarks of his artistic persona.
As the lyrics progress, A Boogie touches on substance use, referencing Percocets. This admission acts as a commentary on the shared reality of escapism and self-medication prevalent in his environment. When he states, ‘who am I to judge you? I’m on the same thing,’ there’s an acknowledgment of his flaws, humanizing him despite the fearsome persona.
He reminisces about his past, mentioning ‘back block’ where crack was sold. Here, A Boogie paints a vivid picture of his former life and environment. This reflection offers authenticity to his narrative and serves as a testament to his gritty origins and eventual success. It adds layers to his current luxurious lifestyle, showing it’s not merely luck but a hard-fought battle.
Further into the song, A Boogie discusses relationships, both romantic and platonic. He suggests that material things like ‘Benz, Bentleys, and Beamer’ are priorities, hinting at his shift in focus towards wealth and status. The dismissive attitude toward a partner (‘if you could take my bitch, keep her’) underlines a detachment and a belief in his self-worth and possessions.
In the midst of all this, he repeatedly reinforces loyalty with the phrase ‘bros come before my hoes,’ highlighting the unbreakable bond he holds with his friends over romantic relationships. This speaks volumes about the significance of brotherhood in his life and in street culture generally. Loyalty to his crew comes first, a mantra that underscores the entirety of ‘The Reaper.’
He describes potential violence with a matter-of-fact tone: ‘Nigga just watch what you say’ and ‘niggas get shot every day,’ showing how danger and the potential for lethal conflict are ever-present. The nonchalance conveys the normalized chaos within his surroundings. However, his willingness to pray signifies an awareness of his precarious lifestyle, hinting at hope for redemption or protection.
A Boogie contrasts this grim imagery with markers of success—mentioning designer brands like ‘Christian Louboutins and Christian Diors.’ This blend of violence and luxury indicates a dual existence: one foot in the streets and one in high society, exemplifying a classic hip-hop dichotomy. Despite success, the street codes and the mentality from his origins continue to shape him.
“The Reaper” ends on a note reiterating his loyalty and fears: A Boogie lives by his rules, understanding that each move might be his last. The song is a testament to the struggle and fear that coexist with the riches he now has, serving as a poignant reflection of his journey and resilience. It’s not just about the material gains, but the stories, struggles, and truths behind them that craft his identity.
