Released: 2016
“White Iverson” by Post Malone is all about flaunting success and confidence, drawing comparisons to the legendary basketball star Allen Iverson. Malone paints a picture of living lavishly, overcoming challenges, and thriving despite doubters. The song mixes themes of personal achievement, flashy lifestyle, and resilience.
In the chorus, Malone starts with, “Saucin’, saucin’, I’m saucin’ on you.” Here, “saucin'” refers to showing off or being stylish. He continues, “I’m ballin’, I’m ballin’, Iverson on you,” likening his rising success to Allen Iverson’s dominance on the court. “Watch out” and “That’s my shot” emphasize his confidence and swagger, while “Spendin’ all my fuckin’ pay” underscores his carefree spending habits.
In the first verse, Malone says, “I got me some braids and I got me some hoes,” showing he’s embraced success and style. “Started rockin’ the sleeve, I can’t ball with no Joes,” highlights his inclination for luxury, scoffing at generic brands. “I’m with some white girls and they lovin’ the coca” references partying with women who use cocaine, a nod to the indulgent lifestyle often depicted in hip-hop.
“Double OT like I’m KD, smokin’ OG” compares his hard work to Kevin Durant’s performance, while “smokin’ OG” alludes to smoking high-quality marijuana. He proudly notes, “I’m the new three and I change out to my new 3s,” linking his transformation to Michael Jordan’s iconic number and his sneaker line. “When I started ballin’, I was young” spotlights his early ambition and love for money, likening it to a championship ring he never won.
The second verse opens with “Cigarettes and a headband,” depicting his laid-back yet intense vibe. “Commas, commas in my head, man” speaks to constant thoughts about money. “Slumped over like a dead man” refers to his relaxed, almost lethargic demeanor due to his lifestyle and perhaps substances.
Malone nails it with, “Lace up, learn a lesson,” implying you should be ready to compete and learn from him. He brags, “I’m ballin’, money jumpin’ like I’m Davis from New Orleans,” celebrating his financial gains. “Fuck practice, this shit just happens” challenges traditional notions of hard work, implying his success comes naturally. “It’s tragic, I make it happen, and all y’all Shaqtin'” reflects on his ability to succeed despite the odds, poking fun at others’ failures.
Throughout the track, Post Malone combines braggadocio with personal anecdotes, skillfully making his rise and lavish lifestyle an enthralling story. He infuses basketball metaphors and slang to paint a vivid picture of his journey and success, resonating deeply with fans and the broader hip-hop culture.
