The Political and Personal Meaning Behind Kanye West’s “Hurricane” (featuring Lil Baby & The Weeknd)
The Inspiration Behind “Hurricane”
Music serves as a form of self-expression for artists, and Kanye West is no exception. His music has always been influenced by his upbringing, experiences, and personal beliefs. In 2021, Kanye West released his highly anticipated 10th studio album, “Donda.” One of the standout tracks on the album is “Hurricane,” which offers a glimpse into Kanye’s thoughts on his personal struggles and political beliefs.
The Political Message of “Hurricane”
Kanye West has always been politically vocal, and “Hurricane” is no exception. The song addresses the injustices that black people face in America. In the opening verse, Kanye raps about how the U.S. criminal justice system treats black people unfairly. He also references Colin Kaepernick’s peaceful protests against police brutality and social inequality.
“The system penalized the man, never the leader
I know Obama was heaven-sent but ever since Trump won
It proved that I could be President”
Kanye references the presidency and his previous statement that he plans to run for president in 2024, as well as highlighting the social change that is needed for a better future.
The Personal Meaning of “Hurricane”
Kanye West has openly discussed his mental health struggles in the past. “Hurricane” touches upon his struggles with bipolar disorder, anxiety, and paranoia, which he has publicly spoken about in the past. In the second verse, Kanye raps about his fear of losing his family and friends, and how his mental health struggles have impacted his relationships.
“I got my family and I got all my sisters with me
They gon’ pull up with no problem, we gon’ do this s*** like family
I got all my people with me
I just fear that I’m in too deep”
Kanye’s struggles with mental health are an essential part of his artistic journey. The song is a reflection of his experiences in dealing with mental health, which is relatable to many people who face similar challenges.
The Collaboration with Lil Baby and The Weeknd
“Hurricane” features Lil Baby and The Weeknd, adding additional layers to the song’s meaning. Lil Baby’s verse offers a different perspective on police brutality and systemic oppression, where he raps about his personal experiences growing up in a low-income community in Atlanta.
The Weeknd, known for his soulful and emotional ballads, provides a smooth transition between the verses and chorus, adding a touch of lightness to the song. It’s not surprising that Kanye chose to collaborate with Lil Baby and The Weeknd. Both artists have been vocal about social justice and mental health issues, making them excellent additions to the “Hurricane” track.
The Impact of “Hurricane”
“Hurricane” has been a critical and commercial success, receiving high praises from fans and critics alike. The song debuted at number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it Kanye’s 23rd top-ten hit, The song has become popular on social media, with many people using the song’s lyrics as captions in their posts about their personal struggles.
Moreover, “Hurricane” has started a conversation around social issues and mental health. Kanye’s use of music as a form of self-expression has sparked a broader discussion about how artists can use their platform to address social issues.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Hurricane” by Kanye West is more than just a song. It’s a personal and political statement. Kanye’s introspective lyrics give listeners a glimpse into his mind, highlighting his struggles with mental health and his perspectives on social justice issues. The collaboration with Lil Baby and The Weeknd has further elevated the song, making it an iconic addition to Kanye’s musical journey. “Hurricane” serves as a reminder that music can be a powerful tool in raising awareness and starting critical discussions that can drive social change.
