Meaning of "SWAMP" by Brockhampton

The lyrics of "SWAMP" delve into the artist's experiences with facing criticism and judgment from others. The song begins with a repeated plea for someone to reveal what the artist needs to know, emphasizing a desire for honesty and transparency. The reference to the name Roberto suggests a connection to their personal identity and journey to success. The lyrics then shift to discussing the artist's past, including their father teaching them about selling drugs and their familiarity with criminal activities such as breaking into empty homes. Despite these references to a troubled past, the artist asserts their resilience and ability to rise above negative circumstances. They reject the negativity directed towards them and maintain a focus on success. The lyrics also touch on themes of loyalty, with the artist expressing love for a partner who has shown their commitment by tattooing the artist's name on their body. The song continues to explore the artist's aspirations and dreams, highlighting their decision to pursue a career in rap and their perseverance despite setbacks such as failing in other areas of life. The lyrics reference the paradox of wanting to please others while also engaging in illicit activities like white collar crime.

The artist expresses a desire to share their inner thoughts and emotions with others in order to improve themselves and their relationships. They acknowledge the pressure they face and the lack of support they feel from others, but also affirm their determination to protect their own heart and feelings. The lyrics convey a sense of frustration and defiance towards those who speak negatively about the artist, emphasizing the consequences and potential violence that could arise from disrespecting them. The song concludes by highlighting the artist's resilience and commitment to personal growth, advocating for a focus on personal success and the pursuit of financial gain rather than paying attention to the opinions and judgments of others.