Released: 2023
Yo, let’s dive into “Paint The Town Red,” a fiery anthem about ambition, identity, and self-assurance in the spotlight. This track is a masterclass in confidence, where the artist isn’t just stepping into the game; they’re claiming it with the audacity of a graffiti artist tagging up the city with vibrant colors.
The hook, “Yeah, bitch, I said what I said / I’d rather be famous instead,” is a bold declaration of intent. Here, the artist brushes off haters and critics, prioritizing fame and their path to it. They embrace the fact that success has gotten to their head, and they own it with the line “I don’t care, I paint the town red.” Painting the town red, in this context, means they’re out to make a splash, to leave a mark on the industry that nobody can ignore.
The repeated “walk on by” serves as a sly directive to those who can’t keep up or refuse to acknowledge the artist’s success — simply move along. “Mm, she the devil” flips the script on a classic trope, with the artist reveling in their rebellious and unapologetic spirit. When they say “She put her foot to the pedal,” it’s a metaphor for going full throttle on their career, and the title of “devil” here signifies a fierce independence, embracing a powerful and often-demonized femininity.
The line about being “so much fun without Hennessy” suggests that the artist doesn’t need alcohol to unleash their lively personality. In the rap game, where substance references are common, this represents a sense of control over their life and narrative. When they get at “You can’t talk no shit without penalties,” it’s a warning shot to anyone thinking they can criticize without consequences. The artist is ready to clap back if anyone tries to throw shade.
Next, they boast, “I’m going to glow up one more time” implying that we haven’t seen anything yet. Their “magical foresight” suggests they’ve got plans and visions beyond what others can see. “Trust me,” they assert — an invitation to believe in their ascension. References to courtside seats and an increase in wealth (“You gon’ see me eatin’ ten more times”) symbolize the luxe life that they are either experiencing or envisioning as a product of their success.
They throw a couple of jabs, too, like dismissing the need for a high-profile feature or changing their style for public approval with lines like, “I don’t need a big feature or a new sidekick,” and “I don’t need to wear a wig to make you like it.” It’s a testament to self-sufficiency and authenticity in an industry where many feel pressure to conform or cash in on collaboration clout.
The song closes out by cycling back to the hook and the repeated “she the devil” lines, reinforcing the idea that the artist refuses to settle or conform. With “Paint The Town Red,” it’s clear: the artist is here to make waves, stay true to themselves, and if anyone’s not down with that, well, they can just walk on by.
