first class

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of a braggadocious lifestyle centered around wealth and disregard for conventional paths. The narrator, 4am, explicitly states, "I dropped out to chase them racks" and "Don't give a fuck about no class," immediately establishing a theme of prioritizing financial gain over education or social standing. This is juxtaposed with the idea that this very success is what attracts others, as seen in "She wan' fuck cuz we got class," implying that their wealth and status are the primary drivers of desire. The dominant tension arises from this pursuit of "racks" and the resulting lifestyle, which seems to involve a casual dismissal of others' perceived lack of success or authenticity. Lines like "That boy cap he not in Saks" and "I know damn well you ain't on shit" highlight a critical, almost contemptuous, view of those who aren't participating in this high-stakes world. The repeated emphasis on "class" – both in terms of social standing and the literal "first class" travel – underscores a desire for elevated status achieved through material wealth rather than traditional merit. A striking element is the stark contrast between the narrator's pursuit of wealth and the violent imagery introduced by sholoh. While 4am focuses on financial success and social climbing, sholoh brings a more menacing, almost nihilistic, tone with lines like "Choppa take him to the holy division" and "turn him to a chicken." This lyrical shift introduces a darker undercurrent, suggesting that the "racks" are protected or acquired through means far removed from the mundane, creating a jarring dissonance that amplifies the overall aggressive and self-aggrandizing narrative. Ultimately, the effectiveness of these lyrics lies in their unapologetic embrace of a materialistic and confrontational worldview. The directness of the language, the repetition of themes like wealth and status, and the stark juxtaposition of luxury with violence create a potent, if abrasive, statement. The outro's assertion, "We created this... All we are is proud and passionate," attempts to frame this aggressive pursuit as a form of creative achievement, doubling down on their self-made narrative despite its potentially controversial elements.