Meaning of "Hip Hop Kids" by Portugal. The Man

The lyrics of "Hip Hop Kids" explore themes of generational differences and individuality. The narrator reflects on their experiences as they take a walk with their baby daughter, symbolizing passing on their perspective to the next generation. The mention of the coat from Paris suggests a desire to give their child the best, but the absence of swans to feed represents how things have changed or moved on. The repetition of "Yeah yeah, the punks are tough, but those rock and rollers" highlights the divide between different subcultures and their respective values. The hip hop kids are portrayed as caring too much about what others think, with the narrator asserting their indifference and individuality. This indifference is emphasized by the repeated lines of "we don't" throughout the song. The line "I'm your mother's son, that fucking holy roller, and I just stand still, watch the world grow colder" suggests a sense of resignation and acceptance of the passage of time. The narrator feels powerless to change the world and acknowledges their inability to change who they are. The final lines of the song, "You love those rock and rollers," imply a recognition that others may have their own preferences and subcultures that they connect with.

The overall meaning of the lyrics appears to be a reflection on the passage of time, changing cultural landscapes, and the individuals' sense of self within it. It explores the tension between generations, addressing the differing values and interests of different subcultures. The narrator, while feeling disconnected and indifferent towards the opinions of the hip hop kids, still exhibits a sense of individuality and defiance in embracing their own identity.