Meaning and Lyrics of SO WHAT by midwxst

Midwxst’s “SO WHAT” is a track that masterfully encapsulates the braggadocio and emotional complexity often found in contemporary hip-hop, all while rooting itself firmly in the chaos of youth culture and the pursuit of authenticity. The artist, who has made significant waves with a dynamic blend of emo-rap and cloud rap influences, utilizes this song as a sonic canvas to showcase not only his lyrical prowess but also his evolving artistic identity.

From the outset, the intro sets a tone of unabashed confidence. The phrase “wxstwrld, bitch” acts as a personal manifesto, affirming his reign in his self-created universe—one where he is both king and student, constantly learning while shaping his kingdom. This ethos permeates the track, overlaying each line with a sense of evolved self-awareness.

Moving into the chorus, the defiant rejection of materialism is striking: “I don’t want your cash, bro, huh, I got too much.” Here, Midwxst flips the script on conventional rap themes by asserting that he is beyond financial desires, signaling a deeper dissatisfaction or emotional emptiness despite outward success. This line resonates with listeners—a reminder that wealth does not equate to happiness. The subsequent line, where the female protagonist labels him an “asshole,” is met with a nonchalant “So what?” illustrating a carefree attitude towards perception and criticism. It’s a proclamation of freedom, reinforcing that his journey and self-expression are above reproach—he’s committed to his path, irrespective of others’ judgments.

In the first verse, Midwxst brings in stark imagery and clever wordplay to delineate his space within the music landscape: “Stay with the winnin’ team while you n****s be losin’.” This juxtaposition highlights the competitive nature of the industry, insinuating that he chooses loyalty and authentic connections while others flounder, a nod to both his resilience and his crew’s loyalty. The line about his music being likened to nicotine draws an interesting parallel, suggesting that his sound is addictive—a necessary fix for his fans, underscoring his impact on their lives.

Transitioning to the bridge, Midwxst delivers a layered complexity when he states, “Gang got more sticks than forces in Iraq.” This boasts not only a bravado typical of hip-hop but also places him in the broader conversation of violence and bravado—often the backdrop of young adulthood, especially in modern rap narratives. His insistence on disengagement (“I don’t text back”) speaks volumes. It implies he is overwhelmed with demands and distractions, a modern-day rockstar dodging hangers-on, which feels oddly relatable to anyone besieged by the incessant buzz of social media notifications.

With the repetition in the chorus, Midwxst creates a chant-like rhythm, enhancing the track’s catchiness while reinforcing themes of independence and ownership. The phrase “Told ’em, ‘Hold up,'” becomes more than a directive; it morphs into a refrain embodying pause, reflection, and perhaps the caution he advises himself against the pitfalls of fame and groupie culture.

The second verse introduces a darker, more nihilistic undertone, as he compares his life to “yin and yang,” suggesting a balance of good and evil or the highs and lows of his existence. His seamless flow continues, fusing a sense of danger with nonchalance, particularly with lines like “Half you n****s don’t even f****n’ know me, no, I don’t need to explain sh*t.” This highlights the dualities in his persona—celebrated and misunderstood simultaneously.

As the track progresses, the outro maintains the energy, repeating “Told ’em, ‘Hold up,’” driving home the necessity to pause and critique. It underlines the consumerist culture of the music industry, reminding listeners that amidst the chaos, there’s a need for introspection.

Ultimately, “SO WHAT” serves as a declaration of artistic independence from Midwxst. It’s a rich blend of bravado, introspection, and emotional candor, inviting listeners into a world where the essence of living is intertwined with creative expression. With this entry, he not only affirms his place amidst the pantheon of rising stars in hip-hop but also captures a moment of vulnerability that could resonate far beyond the frustrations of youth, reminding us all of the struggles that come with self-discovery and the pursuit of authenticity in an often superficial world.