Backboard Dollars
J. Arrr Lyrics

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I got the stats to match the eye test
Gambled on myself and maxed the side bets
Many careers was Terminated early hope they shoot and splash the Skynets
Assist the Trail Blazing like a Bowie pass to Clyde Drex
My eyes sweat when I think of the early rafter hangs
Those who couldn't manage the masquerades
Some could reach the dollars on the backboards just could never grasp the change
Some crafted pain into a classic game

Ask for fame
You might receive misfortune before or after
Feel like you're putting points on the board but it's scoring backwards
Sourcing paths for outlets but the plug is a poor adapter
When that vital element in yourself
Korbin Dallas
Pour the chalice til it overflows
For ones we lost to drug abuse I swear I'm overdose

Every one we lost to violence hope they hold the soul
They live forever as their stories being over told

Overall Meaning

In "Backboard Dollars," J. Arrr reflects on his own journey to success and the challenges faced by others in the pursuit of their dreams. The lyrics convey a sense of self-confidence and determination, as J. Arrr mentions "gambling on himself" and succeeding against all odds. He compares himself to a skilled basketball player, making reference to the NBA legends David Bowie and Clyde Drexler, highlighting his ability to assist and blaze a trail in his own career.

The lyrics also touch upon the struggles and hardships faced by those who couldn't navigate the complexities of life. J. Arrr mentions "masquerades" and "grasping change," suggesting that some people were unable to adapt or seize opportunities. He further explores the themes of fame, misfortune, and the paradox of feeling like you're making progress but actually going backwards in scoring. The reference to a "poor adapter" symbolizes the challenges of finding the right path or means to success.

The latter part of the lyrics take a more somber tone, paying homage to those lost to drug abuse and violence. J. Arrr vows to honor their memories by remembering and sharing their stories. The final lines suggest that even in death, their impact and legacies live on.

Overall, "Backboard Dollars" is a reflection on the struggles, triumphs, and losses experienced in the pursuit of success. It conveys a message of resilience, determination, and the importance of acknowledging and learning from both personal and collective struggles.

Line by Line Meaning

I got the stats to match the eye test
My statistical achievements prove that I am as talented as I appear

Gambled on myself and maxed the side bets
I took risks on my own abilities and succeeded beyond expectations

Many careers was Terminated early hope they shoot and splash the Skynets
Many people's careers ended abruptly, and I hope they find success elsewhere

Assist the Trail Blazing like a Bowie pass to Clyde Drex
I contribute to the success of the Trail Blazers basketball team, just like David Bowie throwing a pass to Clyde Drexler

My eyes sweat when I think of the early rafter hangs
I feel emotional when I reminisce about the early accomplishments and celebrations

Those who couldn't manage the masquerades
Those who couldn't handle the fake personas and performances

Some could reach the dollars on the backboards just could never grasp the change
Some could earn money, but couldn't adapt to the transformations in their lives

Some crafted pain into a classic game
Some turned their hardships into art and created a timeless masterpiece

Ask for fame
Seeking fame

You might receive misfortune before or after
Misfortune can come both before and after achieving success

Feel like you're putting points on the board but it's scoring backwards
It feels like I'm making progress, but it's actually leading me in the wrong direction

Sourcing paths for outlets but the plug is a poor adapter
Seeking different opportunities, but not finding a suitable fit

When that vital element in yourself
When an important aspect of your being

Korbin Dallas
A reference to the character Korben Dallas from the film 'The Fifth Element'

Pour the chalice til it overflows
Keep filling the cup until it's overflowing

For ones we lost to drug abuse I swear I'm overdose
I promise to honor those we lost to drug abuse by exceeding all expectations

Every one we lost to violence hope they hold the soul
I hope that those we lost to violence find peace in the afterlife

They live forever as their stories being over told
Their stories will be remembered and retold for eternity

Lyrics © DistroKid
Written by: James Hinnant

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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