a lot – 21 Savage ft. J. Cole

Released in December 2018 as part of 21 Savage’s sophomore album I Am > I Was, “A Lot” featuring J. Cole quickly became one of the most celebrated songs in the modern hip-hop scene. The track stands out due to its introspective lyrics, soulful sample, and the undeniable synergy between 21 Savage and J. Cole. The song’s subject matter addresses the hardships, regrets, and the harsh realities of life, reflecting on everything from personal struggles to societal issues. “A Lot” not only showcases 21 Savage’s growth as an artist but also solidifies J. Cole’s status as a lyrical heavyweight capable of delivering socially conscious bars.

The Musical Composition: A Soulful, Reflective Backdrop
The production of “A Lot,” handled by DJ Dahi, is rooted in a sample of East of Underground’s 1971 track “I Love You.” This sample forms the backbone of the instrumental, creating a soulful, almost nostalgic vibe that contrasts with the typical hard-hitting trap beats associated with 21 Savage’s earlier work. The lush strings, soft piano chords, and gentle backing vocals evoke a sense of introspection and melancholy. It sets the perfect stage for both 21 Savage and J. Cole to reflect on their experiences and offer commentary on the world around them.

The use of this soulful sample shows a significant departure from 21 Savage’s usual sound, marking his artistic growth. It invites listeners to focus on the message of the song, which is delivered through poignant lyricism. The track’s laid-back tempo further emphasizes the reflective nature of the song, encouraging the audience to absorb each word and contemplate the emotions being conveyed.

21 Savage’s Verses: Growth and Vulnerability
In “A Lot,” 21 Savage opens with the recurring question, “How much money you got? (A lot) / How many problems you got? (A lot),” creating a contrast between material wealth and the personal struggles that often come with success. While many rappers use their platform to boast about wealth, 21 Savage turns the conversation towards the consequences of success, expressing the weight of the problems that continue to follow him.

His verses delve into personal hardships, including the loss of loved ones, the struggles of growing up in impoverished neighborhoods, and the emotional toll of fame. One particularly striking moment in the song comes when he reflects on the loss of his brother, comparing it to the pain of losing “innocence” to the streets. This kind of vulnerability is not something 21 Savage typically showcased earlier in his career, but “A Lot” marks a turning point for the rapper, revealing a more introspective side that fans and critics have come to appreciate.

There’s also a subtle but powerful critique of the justice system. 21 Savage touches on how people from his community are often trapped in cycles of incarceration and poverty, stating, “I went from rags to riches quickly, the feds they had got me.” This commentary on systemic injustice and the surveillance of Black communities in the U.S. adds a socially conscious layer to his narrative, making “A Lot” much more than a personal confessional—it becomes a reflection on broader societal issues.

J. Cole’s Verse: A Masterclass in Lyrical Storytelling
When J. Cole enters with his verse, the tone shifts slightly, becoming even more politically charged and focused on societal commentary. Known for his introspective and thought-provoking lyrics, Cole doesn’t hold back. He begins by addressing the pressures of the music industry, specifically touching on how record labels exploit artists: “The label got him holdin’ a check, but he missin’ his soul in the music.”

Cole’s verse is a deep dive into a wide range of issues, from systemic racism to the violence plaguing inner cities, to the superficiality of the music industry. One of the most powerful moments of his verse is when he reflects on his peers who have lost their way or fallen victim to violence: “Pray for Tekashi, they want him to rot.” This line is a reference to Tekashi 6ix9ine, who, at the time, was facing serious legal trouble and had become a controversial figure in hip-hop. Cole’s plea for Tekashi shows a level of compassion and understanding, reminding listeners that even flawed individuals deserve empathy.

Another standout line from Cole’s verse is when he addresses how society often turns a blind eye to the struggles of Black people: “How many times the city makin’ me leave out a lot?” This line serves as a commentary on the systemic issues that have plagued communities of color for decades. Cole continues to be a voice for the voiceless, highlighting issues that are often ignored or minimized by mainstream media.

J. Cole’s delivery is precise and powerful, his ability to weave personal anecdotes with larger societal critiques is what makes his verse stand out. It’s no surprise that his contribution to “A Lot” has been praised as one of the best features of 2019, as it perfectly complements 21 Savage’s more personal approach, creating a balanced and deeply thought-provoking track.

The Music Video: A Visual Representation of Dual Realities
The official music video for “A Lot”, directed by Aisultan Seitov, further emphasizes the themes of duality present in the song. The video takes place at a lavish family gathering in a mansion, complete with elegantly dressed guests and fine dining. However, as the camera pans through the party, flashes of hardship and struggle break through the glamorous façade. We see images of people dealing with police harassment, incarceration, and emotional pain, contrasting sharply with the wealth and luxury of the setting.

This duality mirrors the song’s theme of the dichotomy between external success and internal struggle. No matter how much money or success someone might accumulate, the problems and hardships of life remain. The video’s muted color palette and dramatic cinematography add a layer of depth, reinforcing the song’s message that wealth does not solve all problems, and societal issues persist even amidst personal success.

Cultural Impact and Legacy
“A Lot” was a critical and commercial success, peaking at number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning a Grammy Award for Best Rap Song in 2020. Its success is a testament to how powerful lyricism and socially conscious themes can resonate with a wide audience, even in an era dominated by trap beats and party anthems.

The collaboration between 21 Savage and J. Cole represents a perfect marriage of two different yet complementary styles. Savage, with his blunt, emotionally raw delivery, and Cole, with his more intricate, intellectual approach, come together to create a song that not only entertains but also provokes thought and reflection.

“A Lot” is more than just a rap song; it’s a commentary on life, success, and the struggles that come with both. It’s a reminder that no matter how much you have, the challenges and pain of life are inescapable, and true success lies in how you navigate those difficulties.

(I love you) turn my headphone down a little bit, yeah
(For so many reasons) yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
(I do) yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
(I love you) ah, ah, ah, woah, woah, woah
Yeah

How much money you got? (Straight up)
How much money you got? (Straight up)
How much money you got? (Straight up)
How much money you got? (A lot)

How much money you got? (A lot)
How many problems you got? (A lot)
How many people done doubted you? (A lot)
Left you out to rot (a lot)
How many pray that you flop? (A lot)
How many lawyers you got? (A lot)
How many times you got shot? (A lot)
How many niggas you shot? (A lot)
How many times did you ride? (A lot)
How many niggas done died? (A lot)
How many times did you cheat? (A lot)
How many times did you lie? (A lot)
How many times did she leave? (A lot)
How many times did she cry? (A lot)
How many chances she done gave you
Fuckin’ around with these thots? (A lot)

Every day that I’m alive, I’ma ride with the stick
I’d rather be broke in jail than be dead and rich
Told my brothers: Take my breath if I turn to a snitch
But I’m 21 4L, ain’t no way I’ma switch

I break it down (I love you)
I break it down
I break it down
I break it down (for so many reasons)
I break it down
I break it down
I break it down
I break it down

Penitentiary chances just to make a couple bucks
My heart so cold I could put it in my cup
Gang vers’ the world, me and my dawg, it was us
Then you went and wrote a statement and that really fucked me up
My brother lost his life and it turned me to a beast
My brother got life and it turned me to the streets
I been through the storm and it turned me to a G
But the other side was sunny, I get paid to rap on beats

(I break it on down)
(I break it on down)
Yeah
I just came from the A, I drove back home
Six-hour drive, six-and-a-half
(I break it on down)
Before I left, I stopped by to see my nigga 21 in the studio
He had two of his kids with him right in the studio, that’s when I knew
You a stand-up nigga, I love seein’ shit like that

Question
How many fakin’ they streams? (A lot)
Gettin’ they plays from machines (a lot)
I can see behind the smoke and mirrors, niggas ain’t really big as they seem (mmm)
I never say anything (nah)
E’rybody got they thing (true)
Some niggas make millions
Other niggas make memes (mmm)

I’m on a money routine
I don’t want smoke, I want cream
I don’t want no more comparisons ’cause this is a marathon
And I’m aware I been playin’ it back from a lack of promotions
I never was one for the braggin’ and boastin’
I guess I was hopin’ the music would speak for itself, but the people want everything else
Okay, no problem, I’ll show up on everyone album
You know what the outcome will be
I’m battin’ a thousand, it’s got to the point that these rappers don’t even like rappin’ with me
Fuck it, ’cause my nigga 21 Savage just hit me and told me he saved me a spot on a new record he got
He call it a lot, I open my book and I jot
Pray for Tekashi, they want him to rot
I picture him inside a cell, on a cot
‘Flectin’ on how he made it to the top
Wonderin’ if it was worth it or not
I pray for Markelle ’cause they fucked up his shot
Just want you to know that you got it, my nigga
Though I never met you, I know that you special
And that the Lord blessed you, don’t doubt it, my nigga
Dennis Smith Jr., stay solid, my nigga
I’m on a tangent, not how I planned it
I had some fans that hopped and abandoned ship
When they thought that I wasn’t gon’ pan out, I got a plan
They say that success is the greatest revenge, tell all your friends
Cole on a mission, cementin’ the spot as the greatest that did it
Before it all ends, nigga

I break it down (I love you)
I break it down
I break it down
I break it down (for so many reasons)
I break it down
I break it down
I break it down
I break it down

I break it down (I love you)
I break it down
I break it down
I break it down (for so many reasons)
I break it down
I break it down
I break it down
I break it down
I break

(I love you)
(For so many reasons)

21 Savage J Cole