The lyrics of Kali Uchis's Gotta Get Up depict the struggle we all face every day when our minds and bodies crave rest and comfort, but the demands of work or life inevitably pull us out of our slumber. The song portrays the conflict between the desire to stay in bed and the urgency of taking action to achieve meaningful goals. The opening lines reflect the speaker's weariness of sleeping in, suggesting that they are feeling unproductive and uninspired as a result. However, the second line suggests that the speaker finds more satisfaction in their dreams - perhaps they have a vision of what they want to achieve, but they struggle to translate that into reality. The ticking of the clock and the sound of the alarm build a sense of pressure and anxiety, highlighting the importance of making the most of every moment.

The chorus repeats "gotta get up" several times, emphasizing that motivation and determination are crucial in achieving success. The line "get me something real" suggests that the speaker is searching for authenticity and fulfilment in their life, rather than simply going through the motions. This idea is reinforced by the use of the word "real" - it suggests that there is something insincere or unsatisfactory about the speaker's current situation, and that they are striving for something more genuine or substantial. Overall, the song encourages listeners to pursue their goals with passion and dedication, even when it feels like a struggle to get started.