Freddie Gibbs’ On The Set takes listeners on a journey through hip-hop’s past and present, as he delivers raw reflections on street life, fame, and the legends who came before him. Known for his honest, unfiltered approach to storytelling, Gibbs doesn’t hold back in addressing the controversies, mysteries, and losses that have shaped hip-hop culture. Through a combination of introspective lines and sharp social commentary, Gibbs creates a track that captures the pain, respect, and complexity of his environment.
Opening with, “God damn, they done got Diddy,” Gibbs introduces a feeling of disbelief and betrayal. This line sets a somber tone as he confronts the blurred lines between admiration and suspicion in the hip-hop industry. For Gibbs, Diddy symbolizes both the aspiration and controversies associated with reaching the top in music, and this line reflects the difficult reality of idolizing figures who are both celebrated and criticized. Gibbs’ words resonate as a reminder that fame comes with a cost and that the heroes of hip-hop often carry hidden burdens.
With “I used to look up to that na even when that na Pac dissed him,” Gibbs acknowledges his respect for Diddy, despite the infamous feud between Diddy and Tupac Shakur. This line is a tribute to the resilience and influence of hip-hop legends, as well as a nod to the loyalty that exists within hip-hop’s complex network of respect and rivalry. Gibbs reveals the challenge of honoring artists while navigating the loyalty and rivalries that define the culture—a line that hits home for fans who understand the weight of legacy in hip-hop.
In the line, “I wonder if he paid off Pac killers,” Gibbs touches on one of hip-hop’s most enduring mysteries. This line captures the conspiracies and lingering questions surrounding Tupac’s murder, a tragedy that continues to haunt the genre. By voicing these suspicions, Gibbs brings listeners into his thoughts, showing that even today’s rappers carry the weight of past events. It’s a bold line that adds depth to the track, emphasizing Gibbs’ willingness to confront uncomfortable truths and bring them into the spotlight.
“I wish them… I wish them n****s in LA ain’t never pop Biggie” is a powerful line that conveys a deep sense of loss and regret. Here, Gibbs pays homage to The Notorious B.I.G., one of hip-hop’s most influential figures. His sentiment underscores the heartbreak and frustration that fans and artists alike feel about the violence that claimed the lives of both Tupac and Biggie. By expressing his wish that these tragedies never occurred, Gibbs channels the grief that has shaped hip-hop and honors the legends who left too soon.
On The Set isn’t just a song; it’s a raw reflection on the industry’s most iconic figures and the street realities that continue to affect its artists. Freddie Gibbs’ powerful storytelling captures both admiration and pain, delivering verses that resonate with those who see hip-hop as more than just music—it’s a culture with deep roots, complicated relationships, and hard-earned lessons. With his unmistakable voice and fearless lyrics, Gibbs offers a tribute to legends lost, the questions left unanswered, and the complexities of surviving in a world where fame and danger go hand in hand. On The Set stands as both a tribute and a reckoning, honoring the spirit of hip-hop’s past while remaining unafraid to confront its unresolved truths.
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