Released: 2022″X-Wing” by Denzel Curry is a blend of ambition, tribute, and raw life experiences, all wrapped up in a banger that hits hard on the speakers. Curry lays it out straight – he’s too original for mainstream radio, masks on like wrestling’s Rey Mysterio when he’s out, but off when he’s laying it bare in the studio. It’s a homage to the greats who left us too soon and a declaration that he’s here to carve out his legacy, no matter the odds.
The first verse hits with a gut punch of reality. Denzel pays respect to fallen icons Mac Miller, Tupac, and BIG, who didn’t live past their mid-20s, declaring his intention to not just survive but thrive. It’s a raw look at the cutthroat nature of his surroundings – friends turning foes, scarcity breeding envy. His reference to “niggas thirsty for help” amid a drought of genuine support paints a picture of the struggle inherent in climbing to the top. When Curry mentions “This game like Home Depot” with “keys, hoes, and hammers,” he’s speaking on the tools of the trade in both the streets (keys for drugs, hoes for women, and hammers for guns) and the music game, with an underlying warning about the duality of success.
The chorus then shifts gears, bringing a personal dream into focus. To Denzel, the X-Wing, a ship from the Star Wars saga, symbolizes not just success but transcending his former limits, dreams, and environment. He recounts his growth from a teen with modest aspirations, “focused on the cream,” to achieving a status where his dreams are no longer just about cars but something otherworldly – an X-Wing. This metaphor stretches beyond materialism, hinting at his desire for freedom, evolution, and breaking the mold.
As we move to the latter verses, Denzel contrasts his past and present, showing us the fruits of his grind. From dodging bullets and poverty to sporting diamonds and flexing his success without a hint of subtlety. Yet, it ain’t just about flaunting; it’s a testament to his perseverance and growth. When he mentions, “Fuck a TikTok, bought a new watch,” he’s emphasizing real achievements over fleeting internet fame. The line, “Nah, nigga, I’ma let the MAC pop,” could be read as refusing to soften for the mainstream (“keep it PC”) or as a nod to his readiness to defend his achievements. Curry doesn’t shy away from his ambitions, declaring his aim to not just reach but own the pinnacle of success – a metaphorical “Star Island.”
By the end, “X-Wing” stands as a multifaceted anthem. It’s about acknowledging the harsh realities and losses of the game, dreaming beyond one’s circumstances, and the relentless pursuit of transformation. Denzel Curry doesn’t just want more; he wants to redefine what “more” can mean. With each bar, Curry proves he’s not just in the rap game but is evolving it, aiming for the stars, both literally and metaphorically, with an X-Wing as his vehicle of choice.
