Released: 2017
Kodak Black ain’t just dropping bars; he’s laying down his street cred in “Why They Call You Kodak.” This track is straight-up about Kodak explaining his name’s origin through a lens that’s not about photography but about being heavy in the streets. He opens up with questions on his name’s origin, setting the stage for some real talk.
Right off the bat, Kodak sets the scene with “Everywhere I go, I got my shooters with me,” making it clear he’s never alone and always has backup. The Ruger he mentions? That’s his firearm of choice, symbolizing his readiness for confrontation and hinting at why he’s called Kodak – not for taking pictures, but for shooting, though not with a camera. This dual meaning of shooting underscores his reputation on the streets versus the literal action of taking a photo.
The hook and the verses blend together, telling tales of Kodak’s lifestyle which includes facing legal issues, still being out on the streets, and making it known he’s always prepared for any beef. Words like “probation“, “violate“, and “thirty-eight” paint a vivid picture of his daily reality and mindset, ruled by survival and dominance. The repeated lines “Ain’t no cameraman, but I’ll shoot a nigga” hammer in the stark contrast between his world’s use of a ‘shoot’ and its everyday meaning. Through mentioning his avoidance of beef like he’s a vegan, Kodak cleverly plays with language to stress his focus on more significant issues than fleeting conflicts.
Moving deeper, Kodak dives into his psyche and approach to life and threats, “I shoot a pussy nigga like I’m doing a film,” showcasing his readiness to defend his stature and respect. The imagery of him not playing football but still being in the field, and not doing a show without his gun, underlines a life where danger is constant, and staying armed is not a choice but a necessity. Kodak closes with a reflection on his notoriety and how he views the world, aligning his actions and reputation with his artist name in a way that’s both literal and metaphorical.
In essence, “Why They Call You Kodak” ain’t just a song; it’s Kodak Black’s raw testament to his life, choices, and how deeply intertwined his identity is with his experiences in the streets. Through clever wordplay, stark realities, and a hard-hitting beat, Kodak not only answers the question posed at the start but also leaves a lasting impression of what his name truly represents.
