Meaning of "City Of Stars" by Logic

The meaning behind "City Of Stars" delves into the themes of growth, self-discovery, and resilience in the face of obstacles. The song begins with the narrator acknowledging the toxic nature of their past relationship. They emphasize that the song is not a love song but rather a goodbye to the toxic partner. This sets the tone for the rest of the lyrics, where the narrator reflects on how their life was better before the toxic partner entered it. The decision to ignore their attempts to reconnect symbolizes the narrator's newfound strength and their willingness to move forward.

The lyrics also touch on the struggles and challenges faced by Logic as an artist. He expresses gratitude toward his record label, Def Jam, but also reflects on the industry's failure to fully recognize his talent. He alludes to the racial bias present in the music industry, where rap is often judged by race rather than the quality of the artist's work. Logic confronts this issue head-on, asserting that he will continue to innovate and dominate despite the hate and criticism.

Within the song, Logic also explores his love-hate relationship with hip-hop itself. He criticizes the hypocrisy of fans who hold different standards for different artists and perpetuate stereotypes within the genre. He calls attention to the fact that iconic figures like Tupac also rapped about similar topics, yet were praised for it. This reflects his frustration with the industry's selective judgment and reveals his desire to be recognized for his artistic merits rather than be confined by stereotypes.

Furthermore, the lyrics touch on the theme of racial injustice and systemic oppression. Logic references racism on television and in magazines, highlighting the need for change and equality. He also mentions the responsibility of paying taxes to support soldiers, highlighting the discrepancies in society that demand attention and reform.

Overall, "City Of Stars" is a reflection of growth, resilience, and the pursuit of one's dreams. It discusses the personal journey of moving on from toxic relationships and the challenges faced by an artist in the music industry, including racial biases and stereotypes. It conveys a message of resilience and determination to rise above obstacles and carve one's path to success.