Beneficial Diary
iBall Lyrics

In "Beneficial Diary," iBall presents a raw and unfiltered perspective on his life experiences, steeped in both street wisdom and the struggles of personal evolution. The opening lines emphasize the importance of his message and the potential impact it could have on listeners. He acknowledges that there's much he has yet to express, hinting at the complexity of his thoughts and emotions. The invitation to listen becomes a call to attention, especially for those harboring negativity, suggesting that the artist prefers to surround himself with positivity. The mention of an "AR" signifies preparedness and resilience; it serves as a metaphor for being armed against both physical and emotional threats in his environment. The line about dying and wishing for his soul to be lifted from the "trenches" speaks to his desire for redemption and escape from a life filled with hardship.

As the verses unfold, iBall explores themes of trust and betrayal, particularly in relationships. He reflects on the challenges of keeping focus amidst distractions and toxic influences, particularly from women, suggesting that his past experiences have left him wary. The statement about leaving someone "reminiscing" illustrates a sense of finality; once he decides to cut ties, there’s no turning back, regardless of wealth or poverty. His reflections on poor choices suggest a sense of confusion and frustration with certain decisions made by himself and others. The "blueprint" metaphor illustrates an expectation of loyalty and adherence to shared plans, highlighting the frustration with those who betray trust for personal gain. The acknowledgment of losing friends as success increases—"with the bands"—shows the tension that often accompanies financial growth, where jealousy and competition can erode relationships.

Moreover, iBall’s storytelling style provides vivid imagery of his upbringing and formative moments, such as sharing shoes with his aunt and sipping lean for the first time. These experiences serve to humanize the artist, grounding his persona in relatable memories that reflect both joy and the complexities of his environment. The mention of his uncle as a protective figure juxtaposes nostalgia with a sense of danger, portraying the family dynamics that shaped him. The line about feeling like a zombie while smoking suggests an ongoing struggle with escapism, indicating moments of vulnerability amid an otherwise tough exterior. The artist's references to violence—wrapping someone "like a mummy"—further reinforce the darker themes present in his life, where conflict is a recurring element.

Ultimately, iBall’s "Beneficial Diary" serves as both a cautionary tale and an assertion of self-empowerment. The refrain encourages listeners to be open to the artist's lessons and insight, aiming for growth rather than stagnation in a world rife with negativity. The closing lines about rocking "Tommy" in Minnesota and the overall bravado in his lyrics reflect a yearning for success while living authentically within his zone. iBall juxtaposes themes of loss and hope throughout the track, navigating through personal adversity toward a sense of empowerment. By melding street narratives with introspection, he encapsulates the duality of striving for a better future while grappling with his past and present realities, making his declarations resonate deeply with those who can relate to his struggles.