Meaning of "Don't Die" by Killer Mike

"Don't Die" delves into themes of police brutality, systemic oppression, and the power of rap music as a tool for resistance. The song starts with the artist waking up to confrontational police presence in his home. He immediately questions the legitimacy of their actions and refuses to back down. This confrontation escalates into a physical altercation, highlighting the excessive force often used by corrupt cops. Killer Mike links his struggles as a rapper to those faced by historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr., emphasizing the system's attempts to silence voices that challenge its authority.

The lyrics also highlight the artist's personal history, with his father being a cop. This background gives him a unique perspective on identifying corrupt law enforcement officers. It drives home the point that not all cops are to be trusted, as there are individuals within the system abusing their power and contributing to the oppression of marginalized communities.

Killer Mike's lyrics express his frustration with the government's attempt to control and censor rap music, which he sees as a powerful vehicle for social commentary and resistance. He rejects the allure of wealth and fame and instead focuses on speaking truth to power, even if it means being labeled an outlaw and facing the consequences. The repeated refrain of "Fuck the police" serves as a defiant statement against oppressive authority structures and echoes the sentiment of the infamous N.W.A. song.

Overall, "Don't Die" is a powerful and confrontational protest song that addresses issues of police brutality, censorship, and the resilience of the human spirit. Killer Mike's lyrics challenge the status quo and call for a revolution against oppressive systems.