21 Savage's debut studio album, Issa Album (2017), peaked at number two on the U.S. Billboard 200 and its lead single "Bank Account" reached number 12 on The Hot 100. He then released the collaborative album Without Warning (2017) with Offset and Metro Boomin, with the song "Ric Flair Drip" peaking at number 13 on the Hot 100. 21 Savage featured on Post Malone's 2017 single "Rockstar", which reached number one on the Hot 100 and nominated for Record of the Year and Best Rap/Sung Performance at the 2019 Grammy Awards. His second album, i am > i was (2018), became his first U.S. number one album and spawned the hit song "A Lot" (featuring J. Cole), which won Best Rap Song at the 2020 Grammy Awards.
21 Savage was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on February 3, 2019. Officials revealed his status as a British citizen who entered the U.S. in July 2005 and unlawfully overstayed a H-4 visa that expired in 2006. He was granted bond on February 12 and released the next day, pending the outcome of an expedited deportation hearing, which was initially scheduled for April 9, but was later postponed indefinitely, with 21 Savage's lawyers stating he was legally residing in The U.S. for several years prior to the 2005 H-4 visa. 21 Savage's highly anticipated third album, Savage Mode II (2020), a sequel collaboration with Metro Boomin to their 2016 EP, debuted atop the Billboard 200, and spawned the U.S. top 10 singles "Runnin" and "Mr. Right Now" (featuring Drake).
On November 4th, 2022, 21 Savage would release "Her Loss", a collab album with Drake. It debuted at No.1 on the US Billboard 200. All 16 of its songs debuted on the Hot 100.
On January 10, 2024, 21 Savage announced his third studio album American Dream. On January 12, 2024 the album was released and featured guest appearances from Travis Scott, Young Thug, Doja Cat, Brent Faiyaz, Lil Durk, Summer Walker, Mariah the Scientist, Burna Boy and Metro Boomin. Upon release, the album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 with 133,000 units, marking Abraham-Joseph's sixth top ten entry and his fourth consecutive album to top the charts. American Dream was supported by the singles "Redrum" and "N.H.I.E." with Doja Cat, both of which debuted at number five and nineteen on the Billboard Hot 100
dark days
21 Savage Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Who would have thought I would emerge from all that gun smoke?
This for all the teenagers that wanna gun tote
'Cause they cheaper in the hood than in the gun store (on God)
You gon' lose a lot of your friends and that's what hurt the most
You can't do nothin' but reminisce about y'all crackin' jokes
You feelin' like nobody love you, I know how that go
You gotta love yourself, lil' nigga, that's gon' help you glow (on God)I know it might sound lame, but just stay in school (21)
They got a place that they put people who don't follow rules (yeah)
You probably got your mama scared, don't wanna watch the news
Ready to risk your life and freedom for a pair of shoes
Yeah, you say you love your switch, but they don't love you back
You can hug that block all night, it ain't gon' hug you back (facts)
Some of your friends gon' reincarnate and come back as rats (pussy)
And after your candlelight, they ain't gon' give your mama jack
Now your brother kids askin' where they daddy at
So you gotta lie and tell 'em he just took a nap (damn)
You done failed in the streets, so now you tryna rap
But that ain't really workin' for you, so it's back to trap, damn
When it's all said and done
There's some things you can't run from
It's hard to decide
Either live or you die
I, I ask myself was it all worth the risk
'Cause I can't pretend (yeah)
I can't stand the thought of losing you
I know how it feel to see your dawgs stretched out (on God)
And watch him struggle tryna let his last breath out (damn)
You don't wanna do it, but you lost some real niggas that you gotta step out
One more seat left in the car, you gotta help out (yeah)
Niggas stressed out (yeah, yeah)Probably why I tell the kids to put the guns down (oh, facts)
Gangsta but I still cry when nobody around
Tryna numb the pain, drinkin' bottles 'til I drown ('til I drown, 21)
Never do no suicide
But I'd be lyin' if I said it hadn't crossed my mind
I hurt on the inside and I still act like I'm fine
Why the judge give my nigga Paul all that time? (Free Paul, hey)
Heard they lockin' niggas up for what they put in rhymes
Standin' on this shit (oh), fuck it, I'm still writin' mine (fuck 'em, oh)
This what growth look like, no more committin' crimes (21)
I stayed out the way and made a way for us to grind (21, 21)
When it's all said and done (all said and done)
There's some things you can't run from
It's hard to decide
Either live or you die (live)
I, I ask myself (ask myself) was it all worth the risk (was it all?)
'Cause I can't pretend (yeah)
I can't stand the thought of losing you
All my dawgs too
Forever-ever Eastside (Eastside)
This shit 'posed to be for life (supposed to be for life, 4L)
Jumpin' shit since we was five (21, five)
We got that fire, we was nine, nine
Even though I'm up, up
You can see the pain in my eyes
I mean like fuck love (on God)
But either way, I'm still gon' try
Got me fucked up (21)
Seein' my twin on Channel 5
I, 'cause even gangsters cry
I, I, I
Gangsters cry
Even gangsters cry
I, I, I
Even gangsters cry
(I, I, I)
21, 21
My son, this is your time
I know your heart
And I've watched you rise above many challenges
And you have made me so proud
I pray for many more fulfilling experiences
As you elevate to new levels of growth, purpose, and success
Dreams really do come true
By the grace of the source of life, so be it
In the song "Dark Days" by 21 Savage, the lyrics delve into the struggles and consequences of a life surrounded by violence and crime. The artist reflects on the fame and fortune he has achieved, but acknowledges the toll it has taken on his relationships and his own well-being.
The first verse touches on the allure of guns and the prevalence of violence in certain communities. 21 Savage acknowledges that many teenagers feel the need to carry guns for protection because they are more accessible than in legal stores. However, this lifestyle leads to loss and pain as friends are lost and the weight of isolation sets in. The artist emphasizes the importance of self-love and education as a means to break free from the cycle.
The chorus highlights the difficult decisions faced by those caught in this lifestyle. It questions whether the risks taken are really worth it and expresses the fear of losing loved ones. 21 Savage admits to the emotional pain he feels, indicating that he can't bear the thought of losing someone important to him.
In the second verse, the artist discusses the experience of witnessing friends dying or struggling due to violence. He explains the conflicting emotions that come with the loss of loved ones and the feeling of responsibility to help those who remain. He encourages listeners to put down their weapons and expresses his vulnerability and personal struggles, including thoughts of suicide. He also remarks on the injustice of long prison sentences for friends involved in criminal activities.
The second chorus further emphasizes the internal struggle and pain that 21 Savage experiences. He talks about growth and trying to leave the criminal lifestyle behind, remaining committed to his own path and not repeating past mistakes. He frames his success as a result of staying out of legal trouble and creating opportunities for himself and his community.
The final verse takes a more reflective tone as 21 Savage addresses his own experience in the context of his Eastside neighborhood. He acknowledges the hardships and pain he's faced, illustrating the conflict between wanting love and facing the harsh reality of the streets. The artist recognizes the challenges faced by himself and those around him, yet he remains resilient and determined to keep trying despite the odds.
The outro is a spoken word message that appears to be a personal note from a parental figure, expressing pride in the artist's growth and success. It serves as a reminder of love, support, and the hope for continued fulfillment and achievement.
Overall, "Dark Days" is a introspective song that explores the struggles, consequences, and internal conflicts associated with a life entrenched in violence, while also offering a glimmer of hope and encouragement for growth and success.
Line by Line Meaning
I finally got the fame and fortune that I prayed for
I have achieved the level of fame and success that I have always desired and prayed for.
Who would have thought I would emerge from all that gun smoke?
It is surprising that I have been able to overcome the dangerous and violent situations I have been involved in.
This for all the teenagers that wanna gun tote
This song is dedicated to all the young people who engage in carrying guns.
'Cause they cheaper in the hood than in the gun store (on God)
Guns are more affordable and accessible in the neighborhood than in legal stores.
You gon' lose a lot of your friends and that's what hurt the most
When involved in a dangerous lifestyle, you will inevitably lose many friends, and that is the most painful part.
You can't do nothin' but reminisce about y'all crackin' jokes
All you can do now is cherish the memories of the time spent together, laughing and joking.
You feelin' like nobody love you, I know how that go
You may feel unloved and worthless, and I understand that feeling very well.
You gotta love yourself, lil' nigga, that's gon' help you glow (on God)
You need to find self-love, my young friend, as that will bring out your inner radiance and strength.
I know it might sound lame, but just stay in school (21)
I know it may not sound exciting, but it is important to stay in school and get an education.
They got a place that they put people who don't follow rules (yeah)
If you don't follow the rules, there is a place where they send you as punishment.
You probably got your mama scared, don't wanna watch the news
Your actions may have made your mother fearful, and she doesn't want to see any harm come to you.
Ready to risk your life and freedom for a pair of shoes
You are willing to jeopardize your life and freedom just to acquire a pair of shoes.
Yeah, you say you love your switch, but they don't love you back
You claim to love the street lifestyle, but it doesn't reciprocate that love or care for you.
You can hug that block all night, it ain't gon' hug you back (facts)
You can spend countless hours on the neighborhood block, but it won't provide you with the same comfort and support.
Some of your friends gon' reincarnate and come back as rats (pussy)
Some of your friends will betray you and become informants to the authorities.
And after your candlelight, they ain't gon' give your mama jack
Once you are gone, those who attend your funeral won't give any support or help to your grieving mother.
Now your brother kids askin' where they daddy at
Your brother's children are wondering about the whereabouts of their father.
So you gotta lie and tell 'em he just took a nap (damn)
To protect them, you have to fabricate a story and say their father is just sleeping.
You done failed in the streets, so now you tryna rap
Since your ventures in the streets have not been successful, you are now attempting a career in music.
But that ain't really workin' for you, so it's back to trap, damn
However, your music career is not yielding the desired results, so you find yourself returning to drug dealing once again.
When it's all said and done
When everything is finished and concluded
There's some things you can't run from
There are certain things that you cannot escape or avoid.
It's hard to decide
It is difficult to make a decision
Either live or you die
It's a choice between continuing to live or facing death.
I, I ask myself was it all worth the risk
I question whether all the risks I took were truly worth it.
'Cause I can't pretend (yeah)
Because I cannot pretend anymore.
I can't stand the thought of losing you
The idea of losing you is unbearable for me.
All my dawgs too
And all my close friends as well
Forever-ever Eastside (Eastside)
Representing the Eastside for eternity
This shit 'posed to be for life (supposed to be for life, 4L)
This lifestyle was meant to last forever, representing the loyalty and brotherhood of 4L (4 Loyalty).
Jumpin' shit since we was five (21, five)
We have been involved in dangerous activities since a very young age.
We got that fire, we was nine, nine
We possessed a dangerous and fearless energy, even as nine-year-olds.
Even though I'm up, up
Despite my success and elevated status
You can see the pain in my eyes
You can still observe the pain and suffering I carry within me.
I mean like fuck love (on God)
To be honest, I have a negative view towards love.
But either way, I'm still gon' try
Regardless, I will continue to make efforts and strive for better.
Got me fucked up (21)
I am frustrated and confused.
Seein' my twin on Channel 5
Witnessing the news of my close friend or brother being featured on the news.
I, 'cause even gangsters cry
I say this because even tough and hardened individuals shed tears.
Gangsters cry
Even gangsters experience moments of emotional vulnerability.
21, 21
A repetition of the artist's name, emphasizing his identity.
My son, this is your time
My child, this is now your moment to shine and succeed.
I know your heart
I understand your innermost feelings and desires.
And I've watched you rise above many challenges
I have observed your ability to overcome numerous obstacles.
And you have made me so proud
Your accomplishments and growth have filled me with immense pride.
I pray for many more fulfilling experiences
I hope for you to have many rewarding and enriching moments in your life.
As you elevate to new levels of growth, purpose, and success
May you continue to progress and achieve higher levels of personal development, finding your true purpose and accomplishing success.
Dreams really do come true
The aspirations and dreams you have can indeed become a reality.
By the grace of the source of life, so be it
With the blessings from the divine forces of life, let it be so.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, DIGITAL ROYALTY DISTRIBUTION, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Sheyaa Bin Abraham-Joseph, Mariah Buckles, Yousef Sameh, Kavi Lybarger, Atia Boggs, Ahmar Bailey, Yakki Davis
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@lukee76
I'm sorry, man. I lost mine in 2019, it does get better. For me, it was like life started over again and I'm relearning how to do everything without him. We were really codependent--like ran a business together, talked every day, never lived more than a few blocks from each other. He was my only family, we just have our parents--and we didn't trust them. I haven't seen or talked to my dad since he died, i talk to my mom more, but I've only seen her twice since 2019. Makes me feel like they'd rather have him alive instead of me, and they've always been extremely mean, and intentionally isolated us from any support systems, friends, other people we're technically related to. My dad has a sister and she probably doesn't even know my brothers dead, we haven't seen her in a decade, he doesnt talk to anyone in his family & neither did we. I found out last weekend that my dad had an aunt with the same name as me--i knew he named me after his grandmother, but i never knew about the aunt. It was a trip seeing my name on a tombstone.
I think we're sort of a weird family case, we didn't have a funneral, like why would we? It'd just be the three of us, and we haven't been in the same room together since 2017. Besides, we wouldn't want outsiders there anyway. Apparently, it's weird that we didn't. His ashes are still sitting on a shelf at my moms house--and he would have hated that lol. She literally told me like a year ago that I was disturbed for feeling like it's hard just living every day without him, let alone planning for the future. And she's supposed to be his mother. Almost everytime we talk, she tries to prepare me for when she dies, because she's assuming she'll die younger than she planned because of the stress of losing a child & how it took 10 years off her life. Like, bitch, what do you think it did to me? He and I had a weird relationship and he sort of put me in a mother role sometimes, but most of the time, he liked to play older brother and take care of me. And my mom is way nicer than my dad. Sooooo we needed each other
seriously, though, if you have a support network, use it. Everything I've read says its really helpful for grieving. If you can afford therapy, everyone says it helps, i didnt like it, but i lie & dont remember a lot of things from before i turned 18--my brother was 4 years younger than me and i sort of relied on him to tell me things about our parents --so i didnt do a very good job at opening up or listening. And if you guys had a trauma bond & came from an abusive household, it's going to be harder. Just try to stay alive, he wouldnt want you dead too, he'd probably want you to keep going and find some happiness and peace in life. And you have to give it time, its really horrible, but it'll hurt less as time passes and you readjust to a new, nightmare of a reality. You're going to have days for the rest of your life where the grief just takes over. Which sucks, but thats reality now. If you're spiritual, take some more solace in that, try not to isolate yourself and try to talk about him and how you feel and how you're actually doing. And just try to focus on what he'd want for you.
I'm not sure how you lost him, but mine was sudden, and i still haven't really....adjusted. i also isolated myself from the friends i do have and just use work as an excuse. My fiance has done the most to get me through it, and we're at the point where i have to try therapy or something again because it all just bubbles over in like roid rage moments where i hurt myself by burning photos i have of him or breaking shit from our childhood just to cope.
So, try to take care of yourself and do the right things. You're still in the acute phase of it. I did a lot more damage by just trying to avoid thinking about him, or talking about him, staying high to avoid bad thoughts. If you're up to it, listen to mr morale...i did recently and it shook me up, made me think about how backwards my coping is. I've been sober for 2 months and it's been miserable lol. I can't listen to any of the music i used to listen to, so getting into rap has been a godsend.
Wishing you well, sorry for the long text wall. Hope it doesn't come off as preachy. Try to take care of yourself and if you have people you trust, try to let them take care of you too.
@camronsmusic
"Never do no suicide but id be lyin if I say it havent cross my mind" one of the realest lines in the song
@WHiTExNOiR
Fr man
@thecringeslayer
Real
@andrea54000
Nah fr…
@GolDVYT
U for real cuh? like on gaaahd is u talking about CUH
@camronsmusic
@@GolDVYT yous a bih qui talkin crazy
@Belligerence.
This song is what our generation needs to hear
@Maison-sp3im
this song is so good but not even da best that’s how good it is
@brainblast2193
So be it
@ShaolinMonk95
@@Maison-sp3imyea this will help every problem 😂 😢 👏 🤦♂️