“Rockstar,” a chart-topping hit by American rapper and singer Post Malone featuring 21 Savage, has captured the attention of music enthusiasts since its release in September 2017. Featured on Post Malone’s second studio album, “Beerbongs & Bentleys,” the song features a hypnotic beat and catchy hooks that have contributed to its widespread appeal. In this review, we examine the meaning and significance behind the lyrics of “Rockstar.”
Musically, “Rockstar” combines elements of hip-hop and trap, characterized by its slow tempo, heavy bass, and minimalist production. The song’s haunting melody and dark undertones provide a fitting backdrop for Post Malone‘s introspective lyrics and 21 Savage’s gritty verse. Together, the two artists create an anthem that explores the darker side of fame and the rap lifestyle.
On the surface, “Rockstar” appears to be a celebration of the hedonistic lifestyle often associated with fame and success in the music industry. The chorus, “I’ve been fuckin’ hoes and poppin’ pillies / Man, I feel just like a rockstar,” depicts the excessive indulgence in sex and drugs that has become synonymous with the image of a rockstar.
However, a deeper examination of the lyrics reveals a more complex portrayal of fame and its consequences. Post Malone‘s verses touch upon themes of violence, emotional turmoil, and the challenges of maintaining relationships in the midst of a chaotic lifestyle: “I’ve been in the Hills fuckin’ superstars / Feelin’ like a popstar / Drankin’ Henny, bad bitches jumpin’ in the pool / And they ain’t got on no bra.”
The addition of 21 Savage’s verse adds another layer of ambiguity to the song, as he raps about his own experiences with violence and crime: “I been in the trap house like the Taliban / Fifty bands total in my left hand.” These lines suggest that, while the lifestyle may appear glamorous, it is not without its darker moments and inherent dangers.
Furthermore, the song’s repeated refrain, “All my brothers got that gas / And they always be smokin’ like a Rasta,” hints at a sense of camaraderie and loyalty among friends who share a similar lifestyle. This sentiment reinforces the idea that, despite the challenges of fame, there is still a sense of belonging and support within their circle.
“Rockstar” is an intriguing exploration of the complexities and contradictions that come with fame and success in the music industry. Post Malone and 21 Savage craft a song that is both a celebration and a critique of the rockstar lifestyle, offering a glimpse into the emotional highs and lows that accompany their experiences. The song’s hypnotic beat and introspective lyrics create a captivating listening experience that invites audiences to question the true nature of the rockstar image and the realities of fame.