Song meaning of 8-Ball by Pop Smoke (Ft. Kid Cudi)

"8-Ball" by Pop Smoke featuring Kid Cudi delves into themes of resilience, self-preservation, and the struggles of navigating life's challenges. The chorus sets the tone for the song, emphasizing the idea of making the most out of difficult situations and turning them into personal gains. Pop Smoke reflects on his past struggles and the hustle mentality that propelled him forward, as seen in the lines, "That was all profit, robbin', robbin', robbin / 'Cause I never used to have nothin'."

The lyrics also touch on the importance of perseverance and staying true to oneself, as highlighted in the lines, "Mama told me, 'Keep your head above water', keep your head above water / Never take your first offer, it's gon' come around again." This advice serves as a reminder to maintain composure and integrity in the face of adversity.

Kid Cudi's verse adds a layer of introspection to the song, exploring inner struggles and the temptation of succumbing to negative influences. He grapples with the concept of facing one's demons and the constant battle to stay on the right path, as evidenced by the lines, "Dancing with the Devil, pray I make it alright / I don't know why, just a nigga living wild."

Overall, "8-Ball" is a powerful collaboration that combines Pop Smoke's gritty storytelling with Kid Cudi's introspective musings, creating a compelling narrative of resilience, self-discovery, and the relentless pursuit of success despite the odds. The repeated reference to the "8-Ball, corner pocket" serves as a metaphor for overcoming obstacles and emerging victorious in the game of life.