DEEP SETTLING
Deep Settling is an unflinching exploration of self-doubt, the weight of societal expectations, and the internal conflict between pursuing a passion and accepting the reality of adult responsibilities. The artist is clearly wrestling with the pressures of choosing between dreams and stability, offering a raw, introspective look into the complexity of balancing ambition with the harsh realities of life.
The opening lines—“Lately I’m thinking bout early retirement”—set the tone for a reflective journey, where the artist is questioning his place in both the rap game and society. He feels disconnected from the traditional expectations placed on him, particularly when it comes to fitting in with “rappers who actually from the environment.” This creates a sense of alienation, as he contemplates his identity and his place in an industry that often prizes authenticity tied to lived experiences over artistry.
The struggle between chasing dreams and facing the responsibilities of adulthood is palpable throughout the track. The lyric “Give it 3 years and you still ain’t got no results / You got some choices to make wanna keep chasing dreams or you live like a full adult” cuts to the heart of the dilemma many young creatives face—whether to keep pushing toward an uncertain future or to accept the more conventional path of stability and success. The line “I really thought I had the recipe / But now it just feels like the death of me” reflects the crushing weight of expectation and the fear of failure, leaving the artist feeling like their dreams may not be worth the cost.
There’s also a lot of tension in the track, especially in the interactions with the artist’s boss, who dismisses his aspirations in favor of a more traditional life—“You’re getting way too old to try and get your point across / plus you got yourself a good girl, are you really tryna toss her.” This moment highlights the struggle between external pressures and internal desires, as the artist is caught between the ideal of a stable life and the allure of his dreams. The boss’s words sting, especially when they tap into deeper insecurities, like the fear of being “too old” to pursue his art or of abandoning the people who care about him.
However, the recurring line “You better watch your mouth / Cause when those doubts come creeping” adds a layer of defiance, warning both the artist and the listener about the danger of letting those doubts take root. It’s a reminder that while doubts may creep in, they don’t have to define you—though, as the artist suggests, sometimes they do. The doubts are deep, they settle in, and they can be hard to shake off.
Musically, the track complements the lyrical themes perfectly. The melancholy tone of the beat mirrors the artist's introspective mood, and the repetitive nature of the hook emphasizes the persistence of doubt and internal struggle. The song doesn’t just speak to the artist's journey, but to anyone grappling with their own uncertainties about their path in life.
In the end, this track is about the tension between ambition and fear, between dreams and responsibilities. It’s an anthem for anyone who has ever felt stuck between what they want to do and what they feel they should do, offering a raw, real portrayal of the struggles that come with trying to figure out who you are and what you truly want out of life. It's a track that invites the listener to reflect on their own doubts and choices, and to confront the internal battles we all face when chasing our dreams.