Meaning of "Wheelz Of Steel" by OutKast

"Wheelz Of Steel" explores the journey and growth of the artists, reflecting on their humble beginnings and the struggles they faced. The lyrics highlight the contrast between their current success and the hardships they endured in the past. The mention of being robbed for their tennis shoes demonstrates the poverty they experienced in their youth. Despite these struggles, they maintained a strong work ethic and learned valuable lessons, such as not trusting strangers and remaining cautious.

The lyrics also touch on societal issues, such as the surveillance and scrutiny they face as public figures. OutKast implies that they are being observed closely, even though they are not involved in any illegal activities. This suggests a sense of unfairness and a lack of privacy that comes with their fame.

The reference to the Pope and his scrutiny symbolizes the pressure they face from authority figures who make assumptions based on stereotypes. OutKast emphasizes that they are not involved in drug dealing and do not contribute to any nefarious activities. This highlights their integrity and challenges the judgments placed upon them.

The chorus, "Touched by the wheelz of steel," can be interpreted as a metaphor for the impact and influence of their music. It signifies the power of their art to connect with listeners and provoke emotion. They are asking the audience to show them how their music has affected them, emphasizing the importance of the connection between artist and listener.

Overall, "Wheelz Of Steel" conveys a deep sense of introspection and reflection. OutKast chronicles their journey, expressing their growth, perseverance, and resistance against adversity. The song tackles issues of social inequality, judgment, and the transformative power of music.