Meaning of "Huey" by Earl Sweatshirt

The lyrics of "Huey" by Earl Sweatshirt delve into the struggles and complexities of the artist's life and mindset. The opening lines, "Foot and hand on the gates, We was jumping, oh fuck, I'm like quicksand in my ways," suggest a feeling of being trapped or stuck. The reference to quicksand conveys a sense of sinking deeper into a troubled way of life. The notion of being stuck is further emphasized in the lines, "Was always stuck and I'm stuck until an ambulance came, The first time I changed fast through Los Angeles lanes." This could be a reference to a transformative experience, potentially involving drugs or a dangerous situation.

The lyrics also touch on addiction, with the line, "And my bitch say the spliff take the soul from me," indicating that the narrator's significant other believes that smoking marijuana is taking a toll on his soul. The use of "the 'lo rugby" as a metaphor suggests a tight-knit group of friends who engage in questionable activities together. The line, "I'm off the lancy, I reek of reefer and show money," suggests that the narrator is high on marijuana and is surrounded by people who are involved in the music industry and its associated wealth.

Earl Sweatshirt also explores the tension between critics and himself, as well as the struggle to gain recognition. The line, "Critics pretend to get it and bitches just don't fuck with him," highlights the frustration of being misunderstood and underappreciated by critics and women, respectively. The mention of missing his grandmother and the reference to drinking wine and Colt 45 allude to a desire to cope with emotional pain. This could also be seen as a form of self-medication or escapism.

Overall, the lyrics of "Huey" paint a picture of a complex and conflicted individual dealing with personal struggles, addiction, and the pursuit of recognition in the music industry.