Meaning of "Whatever" by Jeru The Damaja

The lyrics of "Whatever" convey Jeru The Damaja's frustration with artists who try to imitate his style and claim it as their own. He perceives these imitators as infiltrators who have betrayed his artistic camp. Jeru, however, is not deterred by their presence and confidently asserts that he will expose and defeat them. He describes his approach to music as both strategic and mathematical, suggesting that he carefully crafts his songs with precision and skill. By rotating so fast that he appears invisible, he implies his ability to surprise and outperform his competitors.

Jeru also emphasizes the importance of being grounded and balanced in one's artistry. He likens his style to a force that is both centrifugal and spiritual, suggesting a combination of inner strength and outward influence. He encourages those who encounter static or negativity to ground themselves, implying that he has mastered the ability to rise above any obstacles or distractions. While he acknowledges the importance of the mental aspect of his craft, he warns not to underestimate the physical aspect as well.

The artist also uses powerful imagery to convey his dominance and superiority. He compares his LP (album) to his adversaries', asserting that it surpasses theirs both in its content and its impact. He describes himself as a leader whose stroke is apocalyptic, suggesting his ability to deliver devastating blows to his opponents. Drawing on hostile imagery from the Arab-Israeli conflict, Jeru implies that he is relentless and fierce in his pursuit of success.

Furthermore, Jeru presents himself as a unique and unstoppable force in the music industry. He describes himself as ferromagnetic, suggesting that his talent is ingrained in him due to his genetic makeup. He contrasts his affinity for marijuana with alcohol, positioning himself as distinct from the norm. The mention of hip-hop today being like "hookers in politics" implies that the current state of the genre is corrupt and lacking style="color:inherit; font-weight:900; background-color: #ebfbd3;">authenticity. Jeru, on the other hand, claims to have hip-hop "locked down" like a convict, clearly positioning himself as a driving force behind the revitalization of the genre.

Overall, "Whatever" is a statement of Jeru The Damaja's style="color:inherit; font-weight:900; background-color: #ebfbd3;">dedication to his craft and his refusal to be overshadowed or undermined by imitators. He asserts his uniqueness, intelligence, and physical prowess while condemning the current state of the music industry.