Song meaning of A Donkey Named Cheetah by Outlandish (Ft. Majid)

"A Donkey Named Cheetah" by Outlandish (Ft. Majid) is a powerful and introspective song that delves into the struggles and complexities of identity, family, and pursuing one's dreams in the face of societal expectations and pressures. The chorus sets the tone for the song, expressing the protagonist's frustration and exhaustion with being scrutinized and judged by others, symbolized by the haunting "dark eyes" that keep watching.

In the first rap verse by Isam, he confronts the challenges of straddling two cultures and feeling disconnected from his father's heritage. The imagery of riding a donkey named Cheetah with barrels of water reflects the burden of carrying the weight of his dual identity. Isam's desire to provide for his family and honor his roots is evident in lines like "Enough cash to send grandma first class to Mecca" and "Trying to raise a kid up here like they do down there." The verse captures the struggle of balancing tradition with modernity and the pressure to succeed while staying true to oneself.

The second rap verse by Lenny delves into themes of resilience and self-acceptance. Lenny rejects the idea of assimilation and embraces his individuality, despite facing criticism and scrutiny. His defiance against conforming to societal norms is highlighted in lines like "Integrate, don't assimilate" and "If I can't learn how can I teach you." Lenny's determination to stay true to himself and prioritize what is important to him shines through in his defiant attitude.

Majid's verse explores the internal turmoil and self-doubt that can arise when pursuing a passion in the face of practical concerns and familial expectations. The pressure to succeed in a competitive industry while balancing personal responsibilities is palpable in lines like "So stressed when I gotta do this shit" and "Many things on my mind I can't think straight." Majid grapples with feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty about his path, questioning whether he is weak or simply following a higher calling.

Overall, "A Donkey Named Cheetah" is a poignant and thought-provoking song that delves into the complexities of identity, family dynamics, and the pursuit of one's dreams in the face of external pressures. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the internal struggles and external challenges faced by the protagonists, ultimately conveying a message of resilience, self-acceptance, and perseverance in the face of adversity.