Meaning of "Survival" by Drake

The lyrics of "Survival" delve into Drake's personal journey and the price of fame. He begins by acknowledging the disorder and chaos that surrounds him, referring to the crown as broken but still in his possession. This signifies that although he has faced challenges and setbacks, his success and resilience prevail. He questions who truly loves him, hinting at the skepticism and doubt that fame brings. Drake's mention of his own Mount Rushmore, with four different expressions, suggests that he has multiple facets to his identity and talent.

Drake then reflects on his return on investment, highlighting the success and impact of his music and brand. He questions how anyone could doubt his achievements, especially after a successful run, suggesting that his track record speaks for itself. He talks about his encounters with fellow artists, mentioning "shots" that they send each other, hinting at rivalry and competition. Drake also alludes to his encounters with Bad Boy Entertainment, suggesting that these scuffles were not just for show.

The lyrics further explore the sacrifices and struggles Drake has faced. He mentions having too many sleepless nights to count, implying the dedication and hard work he has put into his career. Despite his success, he still feels underrated and underappreciated, referring to falling back a hundred times when he doesn't receive the credit he deserves. Drake expresses his anticipation of certain outcomes, as he has seen this movie unfold before, suggesting that he's experienced similar situations in the past. He realizes that sometimes drastic measures are necessary to end conflicts, implying that someone must "die" metaphorically to put an end to certain situations.

Drake asserts his status as a top-tier artist and distinguishes himself from others in the industry. He mentions his wealth and success, with houses on both coasts and a life immersed in the music charts. He metaphorically sees in the dark and suggests that he was destined for success from the beginning. Despite this, Drake reveals a vulnerable side, acknowledging that there is a hole in his heart. This suggests that fame and success do not necessarily equate to happiness and fulfillment.

The lyrics also touch on loyalty and freedom. Drake mentions his reliance on himself, stating that he is still independent despite having a label. He alludes to friends or associates who have been involved in illegal activities, expressing his desire for their freedom and mourning those who have lost their lives due to those circumstances.

In the latter half of the song, Drake references his own journey and growth. He mentions his father's sense of style and independence, revealing that he has stopped questioning himself and started embracing his own self-worth. He acknowledges the drama that comes with success and the need to prioritize self-care and self-reflection.

Overall, "Survival" explores the challenges and triumphs of Drake's career, questioning the true meaning of success and reflecting on the sacrifices and pressures that come with fame.