Meaning of "Remedy" by The Game
"Remedy" by The Game delves into the artist's persona and the world he comes from. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a culture deeply rooted in low-rider cars, drug use, and gang violence. The Game embraces his identity as a product of Compton, California, and uses it to showcase his toughness and resilience. The references to other influential figures like Dr. Dre and Kobe Bryant reinforce his status and authority within the community.
The song also addresses racial tensions and discrimination. The line "Better say you pro-black" suggests that in certain environments, embracing one's racial identity is crucial for survival. The mention of the Hollywood sign and Roscoe's, a famous fried chicken restaurant in Los Angeles, symbolizes the clash between the glamorous image of Hollywood and the gritty reality of gang activity. These lines demonstrate the artist's frustration with the perception and treatment of his community.
One of the underlying themes in "Remedy" is the artist's refusal to conform to societal expectations. He proudly proclaims, "You would do it if my name was Dre," referring to the fact that his name carries enough weight to demand respect. The lyrics imply that being young, black, and rich automatically makes him a public enemy, but he embraces this role. By juxtaposing his success and wealth with the struggles of his community, The Game asserts his defiance against the system and his commitment to represent his roots.
The title "Remedy" can be interpreted in multiple ways. On one level, it refers to the idea that music, particularly the West Coast hip-hop scene, offers a remedy or escape from the challenges faced by the artist and his listeners. The repetition of the scratching and the line "Just Blaze got the remedy" emphasize the healing power of music. Additionally, the song itself acts as a remedy for The Game, allowing him to express his frustrations, assert his identity, and find solace in his art.