Paper Trail$
LIVING ROOM - Joey Bada$$ Lyrics

Before the money, there was love
Prior to achieving financial wealth, there was love and affection.

But before the money, it was tough
However, prior to obtaining financial success, times were difficult.

Then came the money through a plug
Eventually, money was acquired through a contact or supplier.

It's a shame this ain't enough, yo
Despite the wealth, it is unfortunate that this is still not sufficient.

Sitting back plotting, jotting information on my nation
Reflecting and strategizing about my country and community.

Really started from the bottom, boy, cotton
Originating from the bottom, similar to cotton crops.

But they still planting plantations, we keep buying in
However, despite the negative history of plantations, society continues to invest in them.

Closed-minded men, pride is higher than the prices on your pradas
Narrow-minded individuals with egos higher than luxury brand prices.

Balenciagas, balance my soccer with the henny agua
Balancing high-end fashion with everyday activities and alcohol.

Me and my niggas tryna eat, you pussies empanada
My group is striving for success while others are complacent.

The flow like plenty lava
My lyrical delivery is hot like molten lava.

With just a penny I could multiply my worth
Even a small investment in myself can result in significant returns.

And make you work for me for twenty hours
I am so valuable that people are willing to work for me for extended periods of time.

I swear these niggas wanna copy, thanks for listening
Others attempt to imitate my style, but I appreciate their attention.

This kid ain't been the same since Biggie smacked me at my christening
I have been influenced and inspired by The Notorious B.I.G since I was young.

Watch your tradition and please play it safe
Be aware of your background and take caution in your actions.

Cause your position on the top is switching right in front your face
Your status and position of power can change suddenly and drastically.

Rocking on this bass with rhymes, I'm bustin' out
Delivering powerful and energetic rap performances with an emphasis on bass.

He duckin' down, got some issues now, headed for your house
My success has led to individuals feeling threatened and resulting in conflicts.

So put the pistols down, got that red dot on your nose
Cease violent actions, as the law enforcement has their sights on perpetrators.

Who put the clown on lock, jaws like the blue knows
I have detained the fool, with a grip strong as a pitbull's jaw.

Froze, keep your mouth closed or you can see the soap, dog
Stay silent or face repercussions, like being beaten with soap bars.

I got connections that guaranteed to see closed doors
I have the ability to deny access or opportunities to others.

You hear that underground sonar
Listen closely to the distinctive sound of my music.

The way I flows, this wisdom
My lyrical delivery is filled with intelligence and knowledge.

The Pros been on a mission
The Professionals are striving to complete a task or objective.

Listen into the chamber, get hyperbolic
Pay attention to the lyrics and become excessively enthusiastic.

They raisin' max, I raise stakes to keep the brolic
Others are simply trying to maximize profit, while I am trying to maintain strength and power.

My bitches is macrocosmic, pass the chronic
My female companions are grand in scale and pass me the marijuana.

The mastered sonics is lightyears above your conscious
My perfected sound is far beyond the understanding of the average listener.

You're novice, but I got notes that strike nerves
You lack experience, but my lyrics are impactful and resonate.

I promise your minds ain't sharp like my swords
I am confident that my intellectual ability exceeds yours.

So cut the BS, and don't worry where my jeans is
Eliminate the nonsense and focus on what truly matters, not my fashion choices.

And PS: Your bitch a genius, learnt from my penis
An additional note, your female partner is highly intelligent due to our sexual encounters.

I got dreams filling arenas and breaking brackets
I aspire to perform in large venues and surpass expectations.

Tend this racket, while I'm cracking a Serena
Working on this music project, while simultaneously pursuing a romantic interest.

God damn, God bless the heaven that sent you
Expressing admiration and gratitude towards a significant other or love interest.

But now I'm breezing out, baby, cause my rent's due
Despite my attraction towards you, I must leave due to financial obligations.

Shit is really real out here
The current situation is truly serious and difficult to navigate.

I said shit is really real out here
It is important to emphasize how challenging the circumstances are.

Just trying to get a deal out here
My objective is to secure a musical contract and achieve success.

I'm screaming cream
I am strongly motivated to earn money and become wealthy.

Who fucking with the rap supreme?
Who is attempting to compete with the top hip-hop artist?

Joey Bad, the big preem came to collect the green
Joey Badass, the renowned musician, is here to accumulate wealth.

I got a dollar and a dream, know what I mean?
I may not have much, but I have aspirations and determination.

And I gotta get my mama off the scene
A major motivation for financial success is to provide support for my mother and help her retire.

Cash ruined everything around me
The presence of money has negatively impacted many aspects of my life.

They say money is the root of all evil
It is often believed that the desire and acquisition of money leads to negative consequences.

I see money as the root of all people
However, I perceive money as a motivator and a driving force for all individuals.

Cause we all follow paper trails, paper trails
Because everyone is in pursuit of money and financial success.

And everybody gotta pay their bills, pay their bills
Regardless of financial status, everyone has expenses and financial responsibilities.

It's the dollar dollar bill, y'all
Money is the ultimate prize and incentive.

It's the dollar dollar bill, it's the dollar bill that kills, y'all
Money can also create conflict and harm relationships or individuals.