First Things First!

Song Meaning

The lyrics to "First Things First!" immediately establish a world of unapologetic ambition and defiance. The speaker prioritizes financial gain and asserts dominance over perceived rivals. There's a clear "us vs. them" mentality, fueled by success and a dismissive attitude toward "haters." A central tension arises from the speaker's dual focus: aggressive self-promotion and a more intimate, almost protective, address to a romantic interest. While the chorus is all about external validation and material wealth, aiming to "get a lil' bag," the verse shifts to offering a different kind of security: "I'll be your home, be your shelter." This contrast suggests a complex individual navigating both public bravado and private connection. The most compelling craft element is the abrupt tonal shift between the chorus and the verse. The chorus paints a picture of a "rockstar" figure, surrounded by "enemies" and flaunting connections, even casually mentioning a "white boy plug, I be calling him Brad." Yet, the verse pivots, offering a seductive intimacy: "Call me when you're all alone / Name a place and we can go." This switch reveals a speaker capable of both fierce independence and a surprisingly tender, albeit still controlling, desire for connection. These lyrics are effective because they present a multifaceted character without explicitly stating it. The raw, confident language of the chorus, full of dismissals like "going out sad" and boasts such as "I'm at the top," is undercut by the vulnerable, yet still assertive, invitation in the verse. This blend of street-level swagger and a yearning for a specific, private connection creates a compelling portrait of someone who defines their own rules, whether in business or in love.