The song features a sample of “Cry Together” by The O'Jays, which has been extensively sampled by AZ & Nas, Wu-Tang Clan, The Diplomats, Slick Rick, and more.
Over the song’s nearly six-minute length, Drake name-drops a slew of notable figures, ranging from NFL references to disses towards Serena Williams' husband, with a spoken word outro by Birdman providing a Cash Money finish.
Middle of the Ocean
Drake Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I'm in the Missoni room at the Byblos
The boat was rockin' too much on some Aaliyah shit
For real
We goin' from the Vava Cinquante-Cinq, then back to the Vava
If you know, you know, baby, I don't, I don't know what to tell you
Yeah
Ayy
Look
Long way from Sette Mezzo
Meet Tommaso and Ernesto
Short rigatoni with the pesto
These verses are my manifesto
Hallways got an echo
Me and Smigs on the loose in the city, you know how the rest go
Casual sex, I'm like, "Fuck a dress code"
The first martini is an espresso
Chill shot glasses with prosecco
Niggas so ignorant in our hood, they be like, "Why the fuck you makin' techno?"
I'm worldwide and this is just another cargo jet flow, I had to let go
Life insurance policies, you niggas 'bout to need the gecko
I got some meaner threats, though
Me, Spider-Man, and Leonardo, I'm back tomorrow
I had the chopper to a wedding out in Monaco or Monte Carlo
I'm losin' track of where we all go
I wouldn't trade my life for none of y'alls, it's an embargo
Fifty-nine bags on the 767, this is heavy cargo
Yeah
Fifty-nine bags on the-, ayy
Swedish jail cell smellin' like some Carby Musk
For your birthday, your boyfriend got a party bus
Bottle signs, club lines, should've come with us
We left that shit in '09 when we was comin' up
I mean, these just my suggestions of course
Em Rata here fresh off divorce
And I'm tryna look in her eyes, maybe express my remorse
If she wanna rebound with me, I'm down to go get her some boards
I'm here for the moral support
Whippin' the Vespa off of six tequilas
Big Benjamins like the Pittsburgh Steelers
Drake, you got it
Robert Kraft sent the jet for us, that shit was patriotic
You would think we live in Baltimore, the way they ravin' 'bout the latest product
Teachin' niggas how to mind they business, and my latest stuff
Might be the only teacher that gets paid enough
That's why I'm in Hyde Park buyin' like half of Harrods
You niggas are too concerned with makin' sure your outfits gon' match in Paris
If we don't like you, you payin' tax and tariffs
Come to the 6 and I'm like the actin' sheriff, deputy
First got to America, niggas wouldn't check for me
No chance the kid'll make it here like vasectomy
They underestimated my trajectory
But now they gotta pay that shit direct to me
I send the label bills, bills, bills like the other two women standing next to Bey
That shit was just-
Independent women is lovin' the new appearance
Matter of time before I go net a Bey like a Paris
Like, "Honey, you gotta know that I never wore Mike Amiris or never hopped in a Urus"
I got my head in the clouds, I'm serious
The lyrics begin to reveal themselves over time periods
Promise you'll get that shit when the sky clears
This shit designed for divine ears
My favorite two words from you white boys is, "Sign here"
And then comes the sound of glass clinkin' from a wine, cheers
Swear I'm pocket checkin' y'all for five years
And then we 'bout to kick this shit in high gear
Eight karats like vegetarians, nigga, the earrings are droopy
Contract Lord of the Rings, think it's a script for the movie
Shout out TVGUCCI, my cousin is spooky
I swear you don't even mean what y'all say like y'all dubbin' a movie
Sidebar, Serena, your husband a groupie
He claim we don't got a problem but
No, boo, it is like you comin' for sushi
We might pop up on 'em at will like Suzuki
Kawasaki, sushi, saké, the money grow on trees like shiitake
They tried to get spicy with me, so I wonder how they gon' stop me
I'm really on a roll like hamachi
The fuck would y'all really do without me?
For your birthday, your man got a table at Hibachi
Last time I ate there, Wayne was doin' numbers off the cup like Yahtzee
And Paris Hilton was steady duckin' the paparazzi
Quavo might've sent me a song that he called "Versace"
I really can't remember it properly
All I know is that God got me, I'm sittin' on large properties
Treat me like a newborn, Lucian not droppin' me
I'm goin' Pink Floyd, you niggas cannot rock with me
She could be givin' me head and somehow you not toppin' me
Niggas see the 6ix God pass, they high-fivin' me
Need to be high-sixin' me
Swear niggas highkey sick of me
They wifey on my head 'cause I vibe differently
Feel like an AMBER Alert the way that I can take her to the mall and she find Tiffany
I'm like a cup holder the way that these dimes stick to me
They should've been in the fountain based on what y'all wishin' me
I'm sayin'
Yeah
Million-dollar spot (brr, brr)
Ask them motherfuckers how CMB play it
Middle of the ocean (blatt)
Just like that (shine, shine)
All dark fresh green water
Land that thing
With 'bout a hundred hoes
We up and we livin' like that, boy
Fresh, fly, fresh like, you understand me, like, real G shit
You heard me? A neighborhood superstar
It's bigger than anything
You know, start from the bottom, then we come to the top
Get to the top and we stay up there
You hear me? (Ball, ball, ball, ball, ball)
We look down and we'll be down, but we stayin' up
And we rise up, we stay on 'em, you heard me? (Ball, ball, ball, ball, ball)
Big Florida water, big water ocean
On that type of time
You understand me?
Rich nigga, rich life, you understand me?
Come from the bottom, but we come from the bottom (rich life)
But we understand the bottom 'cause we come from it
And we live with it (you understand?)
Go to our grave 'bout this here, boy (yeah, yeah, yeah)
In "Middle of the Ocean," Drake paints a picture of his life of luxury and success. He's staying in the Missoni room at the Byblos, a prestigious hotel, and taking a break from his yacht to travel to different locations. He's on a cargo jet, carrying a whopping fifty-nine bags, and occasionally living it up in Monaco or Monte Carlo. Despite his vast wealth and extravagant lifestyle, he's still able to connect with people in the city and have casual encounters. He's confident in his abilities and knows that he's overcome people underestimating him in the past. Drake's lyrics showcase not only his wealth but also his power and dominance.
Drake's rhymes convey a sense of superiority and a subtle sense of arrogance. He knows that he's rich, and he's happy to show it off. He mentions shopping at Harrods and owning Lord of the Rings contracts, both representing his vast wealth. Drake also name drops various celebrities and people from his past to show how well-connected he is. However, sprinkled throughout his lyrics, there are moments of vulnerability and humanity. He's looking for love, and he isn't afraid to show remorse if he needs to. He's also able to look back on his past and appreciate where he came from despite his success.
Line by Line Meaning
I'm in the Missoni room at the Byblos
I'm residing in an upscale hotel suite adorned with luxury fashion designs, signifying a life of extravagance.
The boat was rockin' too much on some Aaliyah shit
The unstable movement of the boat reminds me of Aaliyah's style and essence, evoking nostalgia and a vibrant mood.
We goin' from the Vava Cinquante-Cinq, then back to the Vava
Our journey takes us between luxurious upscale spots in an exclusive lifestyle that not everyone can access.
If you know, you know, baby, I don't, I don't know what to tell you
If you're familiar with this elite lifestyle, you understand; otherwise, it's difficult to explain its complexities.
Long way from Sette Mezzo
Reflecting on how far I've come from my previous simpler experiences and surroundings.
Meet Tommaso and Ernesto
I'm connecting with noteworthy individuals in my circle, emphasizing my social status.
Short rigatoni with the pesto
Enjoying fine dining with gourmet meals, showcasing my refined tastes.
These verses are my manifesto
These lyrics represent my personal beliefs and ambitions, serving as a declaration of my identity.
Hallways got an echo
The echoing hallways mirror the vastness of my current life and experiences.
Me and Smigs on the loose in the city, you know how the rest go
Me and my friend are out living freely in the city, ready for whatever adventures come next.
Casual sex, I'm like, 'Fuck a dress code'
I embrace a laid-back approach to relationships, dismissing societal expectations.
The first martini is an espresso
Starting with something energizing and sophisticated, symbolizing my refined taste and lifestyle.
Chill shot glasses with prosecco
Enjoying moments of celebration and relaxation with friends, emphasizing a carefree attitude.
Niggas so ignorant in our hood, they be like, 'Why the fuck you makin' techno?'
People in my community often fail to understand my artistic choices and influences, questioning my unique path.
I'm worldwide and this is just another cargo jet flow, I had to let go
My reach extends globally, and I'm embracing this lifestyle, shedding anything that holds me back.
Life insurance policies, you niggas 'bout to need the gecko
I'm playing on the idea that my lifestyle may require protection, implying potential dangers of fame.
I got some meaner threats, though
Implying that I face more serious challenges than what seems apparent.
Me, Spider-Man, and Leonardo, I'm back tomorrow
I’m associating with iconic figures and returning stronger, highlighting a blend of fantasy and reality.
I had the chopper to a wedding out in Monaco or Monte Carlo
Indicating the luxury of traveling by helicopter to glamorous events, reinforcing my affluent lifestyle.
I'm losin' track of where we all go
As my life gets busier, it becomes harder to keep up with everything around me.
I wouldn't trade my life for none of y'alls, it's an embargo
I'm proud of my unique journey and wouldn't swap it with anyone else's; it's off-limits to them.
Fifty-nine bags on the 767, this is heavy cargo
My possessions symbolize my success, and they represent a weighty significance in my luxury lifestyle.
Swedish jail cell smellin' like some Carby Musk
A juxtaposition of confinement with luxury, alluding to a particular scent associated with high-end brands.
For your birthday, your boyfriend got a party bus
A reminder of celebratory excess in relationships, showcasing the lifestyle of indulgence.
Bottle signs, club lines, should've come with us
Recognition of the VIP lifestyle; if you don’t live it, you’re missing out on experiences and connections.
We left that shit in '09 when we was comin' up
Reflecting on past struggles as foundational steps toward current success and popularity.
I mean, these just my suggestions of course
Offering thoughts casually, suggesting that they are not directives but personal insights.
Em Rata here fresh off divorce
Alluding to a well-known figure's recent personal changes, hinting at their vulnerability and new beginnings.
And I'm tryna look in her eyes, maybe express my remorse
Seeking connection and emotional honesty, possibly expressing regret for past actions or misjudgments.
If she wanna rebound with me, I'm down to go get her some boards
Open to a new relationship, I’m willing to treat her and take her out, showing my accommodating nature.
I'm here for the moral support
Positioning myself as a reliable presence for those going through tough times.
Whippin' the Vespa off of six tequilas
Indulging in life’s pleasures and adventures, imbibing and having fun with little care.
Big Benjamins like the Pittsburgh Steelers
Referencing large amounts of money, equating my wealth with the prominence of a successful football team.
Drake, you got it
Acknowledgement of my own success and recognition from peers for my endeavors.
Robert Kraft sent the jet for us, that shit was patriotic
Highlighting the privilege of receiving high-profile treatment from influential figures, underscoring my status.
You would think we live in Baltimore, the way they ravin' 'bout the latest product
Commenting on the city’s known enthusiasm for trends, drawing a humorous parallel to my lifestyle.
Teachin' niggas how to mind they business, and my latest stuff
I’m promoting self-awareness and focusing on my own endeavors rather than engaging in gossip.
Might be the only teacher that gets paid enough
Referring to my role as an influencer and artist, underlining the value of my contributions.
That's why I'm in Hyde Park buyin' like half of Harrods
Signifying my financial power and ability to purchase luxury items without restraint.
You niggas are too concerned with makin' sure your outfits gon' match in Paris
Critiquing others for prioritizing superficial appearances while I focus on substantial achievements.
If we don't like you, you payin' tax and tariffs
Implying that if someone doesn't fit in with my circle, they face consequences socially or financially.
Come to the 6 and I'm like the actin' sheriff, deputy
Presenting myself as an authority figure in my city, commanding respect and influence.
First got to America, niggas wouldn't check for me
Reflecting on past struggles for acceptance and recognition upon arriving in a new country.
No chance the kid'll make it here like vasectomy
Alluding to the improbability of succeeding in a competitive environment, like being unable to father children.
They underestimated my trajectory
People doubted my potential and direction, failing to see how I would rise to success.
But now they gotta pay that shit direct to me
Those who doubted me now have to acknowledge my success and contribute to my wealth.
I send the label bills, bills, bills like the other two women standing next to Bey
Addressing the financial demands of the industry while referencing famous women associated with luxury.
Independent women is lovin' the new appearance
Strong, self-sufficient women are appreciating my evolution and how I present myself.
Matter of time before I go net a Bey like a Paris
Anticipating significant partnerships with high-profile figures, much like Beyoncé, in the fashion world.
Like, 'Honey, you gotta know that I never wore Mike Amiris or never hopped in a Urus'
Stating that despite my success, I'm down-to-earth and stay true to my personal style and preferences.
I got my head in the clouds, I'm serious
While I envision lofty goals for the future, my ambitions are deeply rooted in reality.
The lyrics begin to reveal themselves over time periods
My messages and deeper meanings in my music often become clearer as time passes.
Promise you'll get that shit when the sky clears
Assuring listeners that understanding will come with patience, and clarity will arrive eventually.
This shit designed for divine ears
Implying that my music carries profound truths meant for those who truly appreciate it.
My favorite two words from you white boys is, 'Sign here'
Reinforcing my demand for recognition and contracts from those in power, especially in the music industry.
And then comes the sound of glass clinkin' from a wine, cheers
Celebrating successes that often accompany high-profile life events and victories.
Swear I'm pocket checkin' y'all for five years
Implying that I've been watching and assessing others’ moves closely over a significant time.
And then we 'bout to kick this shit in high gear
Ready to accelerate and elevate my career and lifestyle to new levels.
Eight karats like vegetarians, nigga, the earrings are droopy
I’m showcasing wealth and luxury with extravagant jewelry that captures attention.
Contract Lord of the Rings, think it's a script for the movie
Reference to complicated agreements that shape my career, likening them to a grand narrative like 'Lord of the Rings.'
Shout out TVGUCCI, my cousin is spooky
A nod to an artist or brand closely related to me, emphasizing family ties within the industry.
I swear you don't even mean what y'all say like y'all dubbin' a movie
Critiquing others for lacking authenticity in their words, like dubbing over a film.
Sidebar, Serena, your husband a groupie
A playful jab at a well-known personality, insinuating their partner overly admires my success.
He claim we don't got a problem but
Claiming superficial peace while hinting at undercurrents of tension behind the scenes.
No, boo, it is like you comin' for sushi
Drawing an analogy to indicate that some situations might be more challenging than they appear.
We might pop up on 'em at will like Suzuki
Highlighting an unexpected and powerful presence in any situation, much like Suzuki’s agility.
Kawasaki, sushi, saké, the money grow on trees like shiitake
Combining indulgent references to wealth and luxuries, suggesting that my successes come easily.
They tried to get spicy with me, so I wonder how they gon' stop me
Contemplating how adversaries might attempt to challenge my success and presence.
I'm really on a roll like hamachi
I’m hitting a streak of success and confidence, comparing it to the smoothness of quality sushi.
The fuck would y'all really do without me?
Expressing my importance and the void my absence would create in the scene.
For your birthday, your man got a table at Hibachi
Dedicating luxurious experiences to those close to me, emphasizing celebration and community.
Last time I ate there, Wayne was doin' numbers off the cup like Yahtzee
Recalling a previous experience full of success and fun, with a reference to a popular celebrity.
And Paris Hilton was steady duckin' the paparazzi
Reflecting on how famous figures manage their public personas, emphasizing the glitz and struggle of fame.
Quavo might've sent me a song that he called 'Versace'
Mentioning collaborations with prominent artists, highlighting my interconnectedness within the music industry.
I really can't remember it properly
Indicating the excess and busy lifestyle that sometimes clouds my memory of experiences and collaborations.
All I know is that God got me, I'm sittin' on large properties
Expressing faith in a higher power while enjoying the fruits of my labor with vast assets.
Treat me like a newborn, Lucian not droppin' me
Implying that I deserve care and nurturing within the industry; I'm valued and protected by influential allies.
I'm goin' Pink Floyd, you niggas cannot rock with me
Employing a metaphor to illustrate my uniqueness; my artistry cannot be imitated or compared.
She could be givin' me head and somehow you not toppin' me
Suggesting that even intimate encounters cannot eclipse my status and success.
Niggas see the 6ix God pass, they high-fivin' me
People acknowledge my presence and success with excitement and admiration.
Need to be high-sixin' me
Desiring deeper respect and recognition, aiming for greater acknowledgment.
Swear niggas highkey sick of me
Recognizing that my success and persona may provoke jealousy or annoyance among others.
They wifey on my head 'cause I vibe differently
Women are attracted to my unique energy and style, even if their partners may not approve.
Feel like an AMBER Alert the way that I can take her to the mall and she find Tiffany
I'm adept at impressing women, akin to a safety alert, drawing attention and admiration.
I'm like a cup holder the way that these dimes stick to me
Women are naturally drawn to me, just as items fit snugly in a cup holder; I attract admiration.
They should've been in the fountain based on what y'all wishin' me
Implying that people’s wishes or dreams for me are so grand they should be manifested in a luxurious setting.
Million-dollar spot (brr, brr)
A lavish location that signifies substantial wealth and status.
Ask them motherfuckers how CMB play it
Inquiring how the collective I belong to operates and thrives in success.
Middle of the ocean (blatt)
A metaphor for being in a vast, exclusive space, free from constraints.
Just like that (shine, shine)
Emphasizing the ease and confidence with which I navigate this lifestyle.
All dark fresh green water
Highlighting the beauty and tranquility of my surroundings, embodying a luxurious setting.
Land that thing
Signifying the arrival at a destination, symbolizing achievement and grounding.
With 'bout a hundred hoes
Surrounded by a multitude of admirers or companions, underlining my popularity.
We up and we livin' like that, boy
Celebrating a lifestyle filled with experiences of luxury and enjoyment.
Fresh, fly, fresh like, you understand me, like, real G shit
Proclaiming my style and authenticity, emphasizing that I embody genuine success.
You heard me? A neighborhood superstar
I have become a local legend, illustrating my impact and recognition in my community.
It's bigger than anything
My accomplishments and lifestyle extend far beyond typical expectations or limitations.
You know, start from the bottom, then we come to the top
Reflecting on my journey from humble beginnings to significant success.
Get to the top and we stay up there
Once achieving success, my focus is on maintaining that level of accomplishment.
You hear me? (Ball, ball, ball, ball, ball)
Reiterating the importance of my message, emphasizing confidence and self-assuredness.
We look down and we'll be down, but we stayin' up
Acknowledging both highs and lows of life while remaining resilient in terms of success.
And we rise up, we stay on 'em, you heard me? (Ball, ball, ball, ball, ball)
Emphasizing our continual growth and determination to succeed against challenges.
Big Florida water, big water ocean
Referencing the vastness of resources and opportunities available, particularly in affluent settings.
On that type of time
Adopting a mindset focused on enjoying the present and seizing moments of luxury.
Rich nigga, rich life, you understand me?
Affirming my wealth and high-quality lifestyle, emphasizing my achievements.
Come from the bottom, but we come from the bottom (rich life)
Recognizing our humble origins, while enjoying and appreciating the wealth we've created.
But we understand the bottom 'cause we come from it
Our deep comprehension of struggles enables us to appreciate our current success.
And we live with it (you understand?)
Living authentically with the lessons learned from our past experiences.
Go to our grave 'bout this here, boy (yeah, yeah, yeah)
Expressing the depth of commitment to this lifestyle, indicating dedication even unto death.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC, Spirit Music Group, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Aubrey Drake Graham, Cameron Giles, Darryl Pittman, Joseph Jones, Kenneth Gamble, Laron L. James, Leon Huff, Louis Vincent Leibfried, Nik Dejan Frascona, Noel Cadastre, Ozan Yildirim, Tim Friedrich
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@blaccpanther777
Middle of the Ocean is an instant classic Drake song and it will age beautifully.
@Chitowngogoonin21
The AZ beat he resampled aged SO WELL
@Warewulf360
No chance tha kid will make it here like vasectomy 🤯
@wtwtwtwtwt
@@Chitowngogoonin21 Also Dipset sampled it.
@touchdown8909
Niga said it like he a historian
@2tonejay461
Very beautifully
@simplyesvinplayz9703
We need an entire album of songs like this classic vibe
@NunYaa504
Man been sayin this since his transition (after If your reading this) An album of real Drake bars no Singing, no island boy, no features, just songs like this and diplomatic immunity
@fortuneaniyi8601
@@NunYaa504 yessir!
@Ayee-Vonn
@@NunYaa504 facts