The lyrics of "Like That" by Future, Metro Boomin, and Kendrick Lamar weave together a tapestry of thoughts and experiences reflecting their distinct backgrounds and artistic perspectives.

Future's Verse:

• Background: Future's lyrics reflect his experiences growing up in Atlanta's streets, navigating the drug trade and the fast-paced life of a hustler.
• Themes:
  • Materialism & Excess: He boasts about his wealth, expensive jewelry, and extravagant lifestyle.
  • Sexual Dominance: Future's lyrics are sexually charged and depict a relationship where power and control are key.
  • Street Code & Loyalty: He emphasizes the importance of following the "code" and staying loyal to his crew.
• Thoughts: Future's verses paint a picture of a lifestyle defined by risk-taking, immediate gratification, and a relentless pursuit of success, even if it means pushing boundaries and engaging in dangerous activities.

Kendrick Lamar's Verse:

• Background: Kendrick's verses are more introspective and address deeper themes of survival, resilience, and the struggle for authenticity within the rap industry.
• Themes:
  • Paranoia & Violence: He expresses his distrust of others and the constant threat of violence within the hip-hop world.
  • Authenticity & Legacy: Kendrick challenges rappers who he perceives as inauthentic or seeking fame without substance.
  • Survival & Struggle: He acknowledges the losses he's endured and emphasizes the need to stay vigilant and protect himself.
• Thoughts: Kendrick's verses offer a glimpse into the mental and emotional toll of navigating the complexities of fame and the pressures to maintain a strong image in the face of scrutiny. He uses his lyrics to critique the industry while asserting his dominance and commitment to artistic integrity.

Collaboration & Overall Message:

• Synergy: The collaboration between Future and Kendrick Lamar, two artists with vastly different styles, creates a unique dynamic that emphasizes the duality of success and struggle.
• "Like That": The repeated phrase "like that" acts as a call and response, signifying a sense of shared experiences, risks, and attitudes among those who are "like that" - those who hustle, strive for dominance, and navigate the perilous terrain of street life.

The song's narrative is not a celebration of drug dealing or violence but rather a complex reflection on the realities of a life where these elements are intertwined. It delves into the pressures, temptations, and sacrifices involved in navigating a world where success is often intertwined with danger and questionable choices. Ultimately, "Like That" offers a raw and unflinching look at the lives of two artists who have come from different backgrounds but have both been shaped by the same realities of the streets.