Meaning of "The Hardest Way To Make An Easy Living" by The Streets

The lyrics delve into the harsh reality of the music industry, portraying the challenges faced by artists trying to make it big. The narrator grapples with the pressure to succeed, financial woes, substance abuse issues, and the toll it takes on personal relationships. The constant need to impress record labels, handle public relations, navigate media scrutiny, and deliver on promises weighs heavily on the narrator, leading to sleepless nights, strained family relationships, and a sense of impending doom. The lyrics also touch on the ephemeral nature of fame and the risk of financial ruin despite initial success. The mention of gambling and risking fortunes highlights the precarious nature of the music business and the high stakes involved. Overall, the song conveys the exhausting and often tumultuous journey of chasing dreams in an industry full of pitfalls and uncertainties.