1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:02,160 All right, hip hop nerds, welcome back for episode nine 2 00:00:02,160 --> 00:00:03,560 of the podcast. 3 00:00:03,560 --> 00:00:06,440 This time, we're taking a deep dive into something 4 00:00:06,440 --> 00:00:08,360 that honestly, when I first learned about it, 5 00:00:08,360 --> 00:00:10,120 kind of sent chills down my spine. 6 00:00:10,120 --> 00:00:12,240 And you guys know me, I'm all about those unexpected 7 00:00:12,240 --> 00:00:13,680 connections in music. 8 00:00:13,680 --> 00:00:18,000 So we're talking 21 Savage, his killer track, Re-Drum, 9 00:00:18,000 --> 00:00:20,440 and a tie-in to horror movie history 10 00:00:20,440 --> 00:00:21,960 that just might make you think twice 11 00:00:21,960 --> 00:00:23,520 about turning off the lights tonight. 12 00:00:23,520 --> 00:00:25,640 Yeah, it's fascinating how a single word 13 00:00:25,640 --> 00:00:27,600 can carry so much weight. 14 00:00:27,600 --> 00:00:29,440 Moving from the shadowy world of horror 15 00:00:29,440 --> 00:00:31,320 to the heart of contemporary hip hop. 16 00:00:31,320 --> 00:00:33,360 Right, we've all heard the word re-drum. 17 00:00:33,360 --> 00:00:34,960 But how many of us have actually stopped 18 00:00:34,960 --> 00:00:36,560 to think about where it came from? 19 00:00:36,560 --> 00:00:38,800 Like, what's the origin story of this word? 20 00:00:38,800 --> 00:00:40,320 So today, that's exactly where we're 21 00:00:40,320 --> 00:00:41,760 going to unpack that word re-drum. 22 00:00:41,760 --> 00:00:44,240 We're going to explore its journey from page to screen 23 00:00:44,240 --> 00:00:47,160 to song and what 21 Savage's use of it 24 00:00:47,160 --> 00:00:50,480 tells us about his artistry, and maybe even hip hop itself. 25 00:00:50,480 --> 00:00:52,960 So Red Drum dropped in January 2024 26 00:00:52,960 --> 00:00:56,320 as part of 21 Savage's American Dream album. 27 00:00:56,320 --> 00:00:58,080 And it quickly climbed the charts. 28 00:00:58,080 --> 00:01:00,880 It peaked at number five on the Billboard Hot 100, 29 00:01:00,880 --> 00:01:04,480 which is actually his highest charting solo track to date. 30 00:01:04,480 --> 00:01:05,800 And for good reason. 31 00:01:05,800 --> 00:01:09,480 The song has this undeniable pull, this darkness, 32 00:01:09,480 --> 00:01:11,720 that sets it apart from your typical trap banger. 33 00:01:11,720 --> 00:01:13,120 It's definitely got that dark energy. 34 00:01:13,120 --> 00:01:16,080 It was produced by the legendary Londonanda track. 35 00:01:16,080 --> 00:01:19,360 And it samples Serenade do Adéus by Brazilian singer 36 00:01:19,360 --> 00:01:20,440 Elza Laranjera. 37 00:01:20,440 --> 00:01:23,920 It gives it this haunting, almost melancholic vibe. 38 00:01:23,920 --> 00:01:26,720 And then you've got Usher adding his signature vocals, 39 00:01:26,720 --> 00:01:29,160 even reciting lines from The Three Little Pigs 40 00:01:29,160 --> 00:01:29,840 and The Shining. 41 00:01:29,840 --> 00:01:31,880 It's like a sonic tapestry weaving together 42 00:01:31,880 --> 00:01:34,960 these unexpected elements into something truly unique. 43 00:01:34,960 --> 00:01:36,440 And speaking of The Shining, this 44 00:01:36,440 --> 00:01:38,160 is where things get really interesting 45 00:01:38,160 --> 00:01:39,600 for a word of the day. 46 00:01:39,600 --> 00:01:41,240 Red Drum isn't just a catchy hook. 47 00:01:41,240 --> 00:01:45,040 It's a direct reference to Stephen King's 1977 novel 48 00:01:45,040 --> 00:01:48,720 and Stanley Kubrick's 1980 iconic film adaptation. 49 00:01:48,720 --> 00:01:51,000 You remember that scene with little Danny Torrance writing 50 00:01:51,000 --> 00:01:52,440 re-drum on the door and lipstick? 51 00:01:52,440 --> 00:01:53,160 Dude, chills. 52 00:01:53,160 --> 00:01:55,080 It's one of those scenes that's burned into your memory, 53 00:01:55,080 --> 00:01:56,360 even if you try to forget it. 54 00:01:56,360 --> 00:01:57,520 Exactly. 55 00:01:57,520 --> 00:02:01,000 And the brilliance of that scene lies in the slow reveal. 56 00:02:01,000 --> 00:02:02,760 The audience, along with Wendy Torrance, 57 00:02:02,760 --> 00:02:05,360 gradually realizes that re-drum is actually 58 00:02:05,360 --> 00:02:07,560 murder spelled backwards. 59 00:02:07,560 --> 00:02:09,920 King and Kubrick use this simple word reversal 60 00:02:09,920 --> 00:02:12,440 to create an atmosphere of creeping dread, 61 00:02:12,440 --> 00:02:15,000 a premonition of the horror that's about to unfold. 62 00:02:15,000 --> 00:02:16,320 It's genius, right? 63 00:02:16,320 --> 00:02:19,920 Such a simple concept, yet so effective. 64 00:02:19,920 --> 00:02:21,640 It plays with our perception, making 65 00:02:21,640 --> 00:02:24,800 us look at something familiar in a completely different way. 66 00:02:24,800 --> 00:02:26,200 And it's not just a visual trick. 67 00:02:26,200 --> 00:02:27,640 It taps into something deeper. 68 00:02:27,640 --> 00:02:29,920 Psychologists have talked about how reverse words can 69 00:02:29,920 --> 00:02:31,920 have this unsettling effect, almost 70 00:02:31,920 --> 00:02:34,080 like they're bypassing our conscious mind 71 00:02:34,080 --> 00:02:36,240 and speaking directly to our primal fears. 72 00:02:36,240 --> 00:02:37,200 That's a great point. 73 00:02:37,200 --> 00:02:38,800 And I think that subconscious element 74 00:02:38,800 --> 00:02:41,560 is key to understanding why re-drum has resonated 75 00:02:41,560 --> 00:02:43,240 in popular culture for so long. 76 00:02:43,240 --> 00:02:44,240 It's not just a word. 77 00:02:44,240 --> 00:02:46,920 It's a symbol, a trigger for those deep-seated anxieties 78 00:02:46,920 --> 00:02:48,160 we all carry within us. 79 00:02:48,160 --> 00:02:51,320 So 21 Savage tapping into that with his song. 80 00:02:51,320 --> 00:02:52,920 It's not just a random choice. 81 00:02:52,920 --> 00:02:55,880 It's a calculated move to evoke a specific feeling, 82 00:02:55,880 --> 00:02:59,520 a sense of unease that matches the song's overall vibe. 83 00:02:59,520 --> 00:03:00,320 Exactly. 84 00:03:00,320 --> 00:03:03,600 But before we delve deeper into 21 Savage's re-drum, 85 00:03:03,600 --> 00:03:05,800 it's worth noting that he's not the first rapper 86 00:03:05,800 --> 00:03:07,440 to use this word in a song. 87 00:03:07,440 --> 00:03:11,240 50 Cent had a track called Re-Drum Murder back in 2009. 88 00:03:11,240 --> 00:03:13,640 And we've also seen artists like Skepta and Big Boogie 89 00:03:13,640 --> 00:03:16,000 incorporate the word into their music. 90 00:03:16,000 --> 00:03:16,520 Interesting. 91 00:03:16,520 --> 00:03:20,560 So there's this whole lineage of re-drum in hip hop, 92 00:03:20,560 --> 00:03:23,760 and 21 Savage is adding his own chapter to that story. 93 00:03:23,760 --> 00:03:26,560 But his track, I'd argue, is arguably the most mainstream 94 00:03:26,560 --> 00:03:28,000 use of the word so far. 95 00:03:28,000 --> 00:03:29,440 It's reached a whole new audience, 96 00:03:29,440 --> 00:03:31,680 bringing that chilling imagery from The Shining 97 00:03:31,680 --> 00:03:33,120 into the world of trap music. 98 00:03:33,120 --> 00:03:33,720 Absolutely. 99 00:03:33,720 --> 00:03:35,920 And the music video for 21 Savage's re-drum 100 00:03:35,920 --> 00:03:38,040 adds another layer to this conversation. 101 00:03:38,040 --> 00:03:40,680 It was directed by Danny Seth and was filmed in London, 102 00:03:40,680 --> 00:03:42,640 which is where 21 Savage was born, 103 00:03:42,640 --> 00:03:44,840 despite being primarily associated with Atlanta. 104 00:03:44,840 --> 00:03:45,340 OK. 105 00:03:45,340 --> 00:03:47,880 So we've got this connection to his roots right from the start. 106 00:03:47,880 --> 00:03:49,120 What's the vibe of the video? 107 00:03:49,120 --> 00:03:52,240 Does it embrace those London tourist spots? 108 00:03:52,240 --> 00:03:55,200 Well, it starts with glimpses of iconic London landmarks, 109 00:03:55,200 --> 00:03:59,440 Big Ben, the London Eye, those classic red telephone booths, 110 00:03:59,440 --> 00:04:02,120 playing into that touristy image of the city. 111 00:04:02,120 --> 00:04:03,800 But then the setting shifts, taking us 112 00:04:03,800 --> 00:04:05,720 to Brixton in South London. 113 00:04:05,720 --> 00:04:06,760 Ah, Brixton. 114 00:04:06,760 --> 00:04:08,520 Now, that's a different London altogether. 115 00:04:08,520 --> 00:04:09,000 Right. 116 00:04:09,000 --> 00:04:10,720 It's got that gritty, authentic energy 117 00:04:10,720 --> 00:04:12,120 that you don't see on postcards. 118 00:04:12,120 --> 00:04:13,160 Exactly. 119 00:04:13,160 --> 00:04:16,080 Brixton is a historically working class, predominantly 120 00:04:16,080 --> 00:04:17,400 black neighborhood. 121 00:04:17,400 --> 00:04:19,720 And it's a place that holds a lot of significance 122 00:04:19,720 --> 00:04:21,440 for black British culture. 123 00:04:21,440 --> 00:04:25,240 So this choice of setting for the red rum video is deliberate. 124 00:04:25,240 --> 00:04:28,680 It's a nod to 21 Savage's own heritage, a way 125 00:04:28,680 --> 00:04:30,840 of reclaiming his British identity, 126 00:04:30,840 --> 00:04:32,960 especially after facing scrutiny and questioning 127 00:04:32,960 --> 00:04:35,680 of his authenticity back in 2019, 128 00:04:35,680 --> 00:04:38,680 when his British origins became public knowledge following 129 00:04:38,680 --> 00:04:40,160 an ICE arrest. 130 00:04:40,160 --> 00:04:40,660 Wow. 131 00:04:40,660 --> 00:04:42,560 So the video isn't just a visual backdrop. 132 00:04:42,560 --> 00:04:43,680 It's a statement. 133 00:04:43,680 --> 00:04:46,720 He's showing us a side of London that's often overlooked, 134 00:04:46,720 --> 00:04:49,160 a side that represents his own story and the complexities 135 00:04:49,160 --> 00:04:49,800 of his identity. 136 00:04:49,800 --> 00:04:50,840 Precisely. 137 00:04:50,840 --> 00:04:52,640 And this focus on Brixton also speaks 138 00:04:52,640 --> 00:04:54,320 to a larger conversation happening 139 00:04:54,320 --> 00:04:57,200 within hip hop about authenticity, belonging, 140 00:04:57,200 --> 00:04:59,080 and the global reach of the genre. 141 00:04:59,080 --> 00:05:01,520 By showcasing Brixton, 21 Savage is not just 142 00:05:01,520 --> 00:05:03,160 reclaiming his own narrative. 143 00:05:03,160 --> 00:05:05,920 He's also highlighting the diverse roots and influences 144 00:05:05,920 --> 00:05:08,080 that shape hip hop culture worldwide. 145 00:05:08,080 --> 00:05:10,120 It's like he's saying, this is where I come from. 146 00:05:10,120 --> 00:05:11,440 This is part of my story. 147 00:05:11,440 --> 00:05:15,560 And it's just as valid as any other narrative within hip hop. 148 00:05:15,560 --> 00:05:17,800 I'm already seeing how much depth there is to this song. 149 00:05:17,800 --> 00:05:19,720 And we've only just scratched the surface. 150 00:05:19,720 --> 00:05:20,920 What about the video itself? 151 00:05:20,920 --> 00:05:22,160 What's the visual style like? 152 00:05:22,160 --> 00:05:25,120 Does it lean into the horror aesthetic? 153 00:05:25,120 --> 00:05:27,760 Visually, the re-drum video is striking. 154 00:05:27,760 --> 00:05:30,600 It's shot in black and white, giving it a timeless, almost 155 00:05:30,600 --> 00:05:32,280 film noir feel. 156 00:05:32,280 --> 00:05:35,680 There are scenes of 21 Savage rapping in a dimly lit studio 157 00:05:35,680 --> 00:05:37,720 interspersed with shots of people dancing 158 00:05:37,720 --> 00:05:39,680 in the streets of Brixton. 159 00:05:39,680 --> 00:05:41,720 It's gritty, energetic, and captures 160 00:05:41,720 --> 00:05:44,120 that raw energy of the song. 161 00:05:44,120 --> 00:05:47,000 And while it doesn't explicitly depict scenes from The Shining, 162 00:05:47,000 --> 00:05:49,480 the choice of black and white and the overall dark tone 163 00:05:49,480 --> 00:05:51,160 definitely create a sense of unease 164 00:05:51,160 --> 00:05:54,640 that aligns with the word re-drum and its horror origins. 165 00:05:54,640 --> 00:05:55,120 Yeah. 166 00:05:55,120 --> 00:05:56,440 I can picture it all in my head. 167 00:05:56,440 --> 00:05:57,840 It's like a visual representation 168 00:05:57,840 --> 00:06:00,280 of that darkness intention we were talking about before. 169 00:06:00,280 --> 00:06:02,560 So we've got this horror reference in the title. 170 00:06:02,560 --> 00:06:05,600 But how does that translate to the actual lyrics? 171 00:06:05,600 --> 00:06:08,960 Does 21 Savage go full on slasher movie in his verse? 172 00:06:08,960 --> 00:06:11,240 Re-drum is definitely a hard hitting track 173 00:06:11,240 --> 00:06:13,080 with some intense imagery. 174 00:06:13,080 --> 00:06:16,160 But it's not a literal retelling of The Shining. 175 00:06:16,160 --> 00:06:18,800 Remember, re-drum is murder backwards. 176 00:06:18,800 --> 00:06:21,840 And 21 Savage is known for his street life narratives. 177 00:06:21,840 --> 00:06:23,960 He's not shying away from the realities of violence 178 00:06:23,960 --> 00:06:25,120 and its consequences. 179 00:06:25,120 --> 00:06:26,800 But in this case, it feels more like he's 180 00:06:26,800 --> 00:06:29,400 using the word re-drum to set the tone, 181 00:06:29,400 --> 00:06:31,840 to create an atmosphere of danger and intensity 182 00:06:31,840 --> 00:06:34,400 that permeates the entire song. 183 00:06:34,400 --> 00:06:36,280 OK, so he's not just rapping about violence. 184 00:06:36,280 --> 00:06:37,480 He's immersing you in it. 185 00:06:37,480 --> 00:06:38,000 Yeah. 186 00:06:38,000 --> 00:06:41,840 Using re-drum to heighten the sense of threat and urgency. 187 00:06:41,840 --> 00:06:43,920 But it's interesting that you mention his street life 188 00:06:43,920 --> 00:06:46,000 narratives, because there's this ongoing debate 189 00:06:46,000 --> 00:06:48,080 about the role of violence in hip hop 190 00:06:48,080 --> 00:06:50,440 and whether artists have a responsibility to address it 191 00:06:50,440 --> 00:06:51,800 in a certain way. 192 00:06:51,800 --> 00:06:53,440 Some argue that glorifying violence 193 00:06:53,440 --> 00:06:55,640 perpetuates negative stereotypes, 194 00:06:55,640 --> 00:06:57,080 while others believe that artists 195 00:06:57,080 --> 00:06:58,640 have the right to express the reality, 196 00:06:58,640 --> 00:06:59,880 even if it's uncomfortable. 197 00:06:59,880 --> 00:07:02,640 That's a complex issue with no easy answers. 198 00:07:02,640 --> 00:07:05,200 And I think 21 Savage with re-drum 199 00:07:05,200 --> 00:07:08,240 is navigating that conversation in a nuanced way. 200 00:07:08,240 --> 00:07:10,080 He's not glorifying violence, but he's not 201 00:07:10,080 --> 00:07:11,440 shying away from it either. 202 00:07:11,440 --> 00:07:14,520 He's using the word re-drum with all its baggage and history 203 00:07:14,520 --> 00:07:16,280 to create a space where we can confront 204 00:07:16,280 --> 00:07:19,360 those difficult realities to explore the darkness 205 00:07:19,360 --> 00:07:20,640 without judgment. 206 00:07:20,640 --> 00:07:22,720 And that's where it gets really interesting, right? 207 00:07:22,720 --> 00:07:25,160 Because re-drum, this word born from horror fiction, 208 00:07:25,160 --> 00:07:27,720 suddenly becomes a tool for social commentary, 209 00:07:27,720 --> 00:07:30,720 a way of prompting a larger conversation about violence 210 00:07:30,720 --> 00:07:32,360 and its impact on our lives. 211 00:07:32,360 --> 00:07:32,860 Exactly. 212 00:07:32,860 --> 00:07:35,360 And I think that's one of the most powerful aspects of music, 213 00:07:35,360 --> 00:07:38,600 its ability to transcend genres and expectations, 214 00:07:38,600 --> 00:07:41,360 to take something seemingly simple, like a single word, 215 00:07:41,360 --> 00:07:44,400 and turn it into a catalyst for critical thinking and dialogue. 216 00:07:44,400 --> 00:07:47,360 So before we dive deeper into the lyrical analysis of re-drum 217 00:07:47,360 --> 00:07:50,680 and what it reveals about 21 Savage's artistry, 218 00:07:50,680 --> 00:07:54,240 I want to pause for a moment and hear from you, our listeners. 219 00:07:54,240 --> 00:07:55,960 Knowing the origin of the word re-drum 220 00:07:55,960 --> 00:07:57,680 and its connection to The Shining, 221 00:07:57,680 --> 00:07:59,880 does it change how you hear the song? 222 00:07:59,880 --> 00:08:02,240 Does it add a new layer of meaning? 223 00:08:02,240 --> 00:08:04,880 Head to the comments and share your thoughts. 224 00:08:04,880 --> 00:08:07,600 We'll be right back after a quick break to explore the lyrics 225 00:08:07,600 --> 00:08:11,680 and unpack the deeper messages embedded in 21 Savage's re-drum. 226 00:08:11,680 --> 00:08:14,280 It's incredible how a word like re-drum, 227 00:08:14,280 --> 00:08:16,960 originating from a horror novel, can become so deeply embedded 228 00:08:16,960 --> 00:08:18,280 in our cultural consciousness. 229 00:08:18,280 --> 00:08:20,720 It's a testament to the enduring power of storytelling 230 00:08:20,720 --> 00:08:22,680 and how certain words or phrases can just 231 00:08:22,680 --> 00:08:24,960 tap into our collective fears and anxieties. 232 00:08:24,960 --> 00:08:28,080 Yeah, it's like that word unlocks a specific feeling, right? 233 00:08:28,080 --> 00:08:31,640 A sense of dread that transcends any particular genre or medium. 234 00:08:31,640 --> 00:08:33,920 And 21 Savage, by using it in his music, 235 00:08:33,920 --> 00:08:35,920 he's tapping into that collective understanding, 236 00:08:35,920 --> 00:08:37,840 that shared experience of unease. 237 00:08:37,840 --> 00:08:39,720 But it's not just about shock value, is it? 238 00:08:39,720 --> 00:08:41,400 There's a purpose behind his choice. 239 00:08:41,400 --> 00:08:42,120 Exactly. 240 00:08:42,120 --> 00:08:44,280 It's about creating a specific atmosphere, 241 00:08:44,280 --> 00:08:48,280 a mood that complements the themes he's exploring in the song. 242 00:08:48,280 --> 00:08:51,520 Remember, re-drum is murder backwards. 243 00:08:51,520 --> 00:08:55,880 And 21 Savage isn't one to shy away from the realities of violence. 244 00:08:55,880 --> 00:08:57,880 He's known for his gritty street narratives, 245 00:08:57,880 --> 00:09:01,600 his willingness to confront the darker aspects of life in his music. 246 00:09:01,600 --> 00:09:03,640 And re-drum definitely doesn't hold back. 247 00:09:03,640 --> 00:09:05,880 It's got those hard-hitting lyrics, that raw energy 248 00:09:05,880 --> 00:09:07,880 that makes you sit up and pay attention. 249 00:09:07,880 --> 00:09:11,040 But I'm curious, beyond the surface level of violence, 250 00:09:11,040 --> 00:09:13,440 what else is he trying to convey with this song? 251 00:09:13,440 --> 00:09:15,200 Well, if we look closer at the lyrics, 252 00:09:15,200 --> 00:09:17,280 we see a lot of wordplay and double meanings 253 00:09:17,280 --> 00:09:19,040 that hint at deeper themes. 254 00:09:19,040 --> 00:09:22,280 For example, he raps about re-drum being a lifestyle, a mindset. 255 00:09:22,280 --> 00:09:24,280 It's not just about physical violence. 256 00:09:24,280 --> 00:09:26,560 It's about the mental and emotional toll of living 257 00:09:26,560 --> 00:09:28,880 in a world where danger is always lurking, 258 00:09:28,880 --> 00:09:30,920 where survival is a constant struggle. 259 00:09:30,920 --> 00:09:32,560 That's a really insightful observation. 260 00:09:32,560 --> 00:09:36,200 It's like he's using re-drum as a metaphor for the constant pressure, 261 00:09:36,200 --> 00:09:38,960 the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of violence that's hard to escape. 262 00:09:38,960 --> 00:09:40,120 Precisely. 263 00:09:40,120 --> 00:09:43,080 And this connects to the larger themes of trauma resilience 264 00:09:43,080 --> 00:09:46,920 and the search for identity that run through much of 21 Savage's work. 265 00:09:46,920 --> 00:09:49,440 He's not just rapping about violence for the sake of it. 266 00:09:49,440 --> 00:09:51,680 He's exploring its psychological impact, 267 00:09:51,680 --> 00:09:53,680 the way it shapes individuals and communities. 268 00:09:53,680 --> 00:09:55,680 And that's where the song's brilliance lies. 269 00:09:55,680 --> 00:09:56,120 Yeah. 270 00:09:56,120 --> 00:09:56,600 Right? 271 00:09:56,600 --> 00:09:57,840 It's not just a banger. 272 00:09:57,840 --> 00:09:59,760 It's a reflection on the complexities of life 273 00:09:59,760 --> 00:10:02,800 in environments where violence is a daily reality. 274 00:10:02,800 --> 00:10:03,800 It makes you think. 275 00:10:03,800 --> 00:10:04,160 Yeah. 276 00:10:04,160 --> 00:10:05,200 It makes you feel. 277 00:10:05,200 --> 00:10:08,960 It makes you question the systems that perpetuate these cycles of harm. 278 00:10:08,960 --> 00:10:09,640 Absolutely. 279 00:10:09,640 --> 00:10:12,120 And that's what sets 21 Savage apart as an artist. 280 00:10:12,120 --> 00:10:15,160 He's not afraid to delve into these uncomfortable topics, 281 00:10:15,160 --> 00:10:18,320 to challenge our perceptions, and make us confront the harsh realities 282 00:10:18,320 --> 00:10:19,520 that many face. 283 00:10:19,520 --> 00:10:22,080 He's using his platform to amplify those voices, 284 00:10:22,080 --> 00:10:25,560 to shine a light on the struggles that are often ignored or marginalized. 285 00:10:25,560 --> 00:10:29,880 And he's doing it in a way that's both authentic and artistically compelling. 286 00:10:29,880 --> 00:10:32,760 Thinking of artistry, we haven't even talked about the musical elements 287 00:10:32,760 --> 00:10:33,800 of re-drum yet. 288 00:10:33,800 --> 00:10:36,800 The production is top-notch, as you expect from London on the track. 289 00:10:36,800 --> 00:10:37,320 Yeah. 290 00:10:37,320 --> 00:10:39,240 But there's also this interesting interplay 291 00:10:39,240 --> 00:10:43,080 between the darkness of the lyrics and the haunting beauty of the sample. 292 00:10:43,080 --> 00:10:43,640 Right. 293 00:10:43,640 --> 00:10:46,920 The sample Serenade du Audeus by Alza Laranjera 294 00:10:46,920 --> 00:10:49,320 adds this layer of melancholy that contrasts 295 00:10:49,320 --> 00:10:50,800 with the aggression of the lyrics. 296 00:10:50,800 --> 00:10:53,360 It's like there's this underlying sadness, a sense of loss 297 00:10:53,360 --> 00:10:55,160 that permeates the track. 298 00:10:55,160 --> 00:10:57,600 And then you have Usher's vocals adding another dimension 299 00:10:57,600 --> 00:10:59,440 of emotion and complexity. 300 00:10:59,440 --> 00:11:03,880 His verses with those references to the three little pigs and the shining 301 00:11:03,880 --> 00:11:06,800 create this eerie link between childhood innocence 302 00:11:06,800 --> 00:11:08,320 and the looming threat of violence. 303 00:11:08,320 --> 00:11:11,440 It's like he's weaving together these different threads of storytelling. 304 00:11:11,440 --> 00:11:15,280 The darkness of re-drum, the haunting beauty of the sample, 305 00:11:15,280 --> 00:11:18,560 Usher's evocative vocals to create a tapestry that's 306 00:11:18,560 --> 00:11:21,680 both sonically rich and thematically layered. 307 00:11:21,680 --> 00:11:22,800 Exactly. 308 00:11:22,800 --> 00:11:26,200 And this attention to detail, this masterful blending of musical elements 309 00:11:26,200 --> 00:11:29,160 speaks to 21 Savage's evolution as an artist. 310 00:11:29,160 --> 00:11:32,400 He's not just relying on shock value or surface-level aggression. 311 00:11:32,400 --> 00:11:35,240 He's crafting a sonic experience that's both thought-provoking 312 00:11:35,240 --> 00:11:36,600 and emotionally resonant. 313 00:11:36,600 --> 00:11:39,840 It's like he's pushing the boundaries of what trap music can be, 314 00:11:39,840 --> 00:11:43,480 using it as a vehicle to explore complex themes 315 00:11:43,480 --> 00:11:45,960 and challenge societal norms. 316 00:11:45,960 --> 00:11:47,720 And it's working. 317 00:11:47,720 --> 00:11:51,280 Re-drum has become a cultural phenomenon, sparking conversations 318 00:11:51,280 --> 00:11:54,360 and debates about violence identity and the role of art 319 00:11:54,360 --> 00:11:56,400 in reflecting and shaping our world. 320 00:11:56,400 --> 00:11:59,320 And it's fascinating to see how the song's impact has extended 321 00:11:59,320 --> 00:12:01,040 beyond the music itself. 322 00:12:01,040 --> 00:12:03,640 The word re-drum has taken on a life of its own, 323 00:12:03,640 --> 00:12:06,560 appearing in memes fan art, even merchandise. 324 00:12:06,560 --> 00:12:10,000 It's like 21 Savage has reclaimed this word from the horror genre 325 00:12:10,000 --> 00:12:12,200 and injected it into the mainstream consciousness, 326 00:12:12,200 --> 00:12:14,280 imbuing it with new meaning and relevance. 327 00:12:14,280 --> 00:12:17,520 It's like he's tapped into something primal, a collective fear 328 00:12:17,520 --> 00:12:20,400 that resonates across generations and cultures. 329 00:12:20,400 --> 00:12:22,400 And by bringing that fear into the light, 330 00:12:22,400 --> 00:12:24,920 by confronting it through music, he's opening up 331 00:12:24,920 --> 00:12:26,880 a space for dialogue and reflection. 332 00:12:26,880 --> 00:12:27,600 Precisely. 333 00:12:27,600 --> 00:12:29,240 And that's the power of art. 334 00:12:29,240 --> 00:12:32,000 It can challenge our assumptions, push us out of our comfort zones, 335 00:12:32,000 --> 00:12:34,400 and make us confront uncomfortable truths. 336 00:12:34,400 --> 00:12:37,440 Re-drum might be a dark song, but it's a darkness 337 00:12:37,440 --> 00:12:40,120 that illuminates a darkness that forces us to confront the shadows 338 00:12:40,120 --> 00:12:41,960 within ourselves and our society. 339 00:12:41,960 --> 00:12:45,000 And in doing so, it offers a glimmer of hope. 340 00:12:45,000 --> 00:12:48,280 Because by acknowledging the darkness, by confronting our fears, 341 00:12:48,280 --> 00:12:51,000 we open ourselves to the possibility of healing, 342 00:12:51,000 --> 00:12:54,000 of transformation, of creating a better world for ourselves 343 00:12:54,000 --> 00:12:55,360 and future generations. 344 00:12:55,360 --> 00:12:56,560 Beautifully put. 345 00:12:56,560 --> 00:12:59,080 And I think that's a perfect segue into the final part 346 00:12:59,080 --> 00:13:00,200 of our deep dive. 347 00:13:00,200 --> 00:13:03,240 We've explored the origins of re-drum, the song's musical elements 348 00:13:03,240 --> 00:13:05,080 and its deeper thematic layers. 349 00:13:05,080 --> 00:13:08,240 Now let's shift our focus to 21 Savage himself, 350 00:13:08,240 --> 00:13:10,160 his artistic evolution, and what re-drum 351 00:13:10,160 --> 00:13:14,160 reveals about his place in the ever evolving landscape of hip hop. 352 00:13:14,160 --> 00:13:17,120 Yeah, we've covered a lot of ground in our deep dive into 21 Savage's 353 00:13:17,120 --> 00:13:18,160 re-drum, haven't we? 354 00:13:18,160 --> 00:13:21,800 From its horror movie roots to the song's complex lyrical layers 355 00:13:21,800 --> 00:13:24,200 and its impact on hip hop's global landscape. 356 00:13:24,200 --> 00:13:26,960 It's amazing how much there is to unpack in just one song. 357 00:13:26,960 --> 00:13:27,800 Yeah, right. 358 00:13:27,800 --> 00:13:30,760 And I think what's really striking is how 21 Savage has taken this word 359 00:13:30,760 --> 00:13:33,920 re-drum and turned it into something so much more than just a horror 360 00:13:33,920 --> 00:13:34,760 reference. 361 00:13:34,760 --> 00:13:37,720 It's become like a symbol of the struggles he's rapping about, 362 00:13:37,720 --> 00:13:40,120 the darkness he's confronting, and maybe even a path 363 00:13:40,120 --> 00:13:41,480 towards something better. 364 00:13:41,480 --> 00:13:42,640 I completely agree with you. 365 00:13:42,640 --> 00:13:45,960 It's like he's using re-drum as a lens to examine the complexities 366 00:13:45,960 --> 00:13:48,800 of violence, identity, and survival in a world that often 367 00:13:48,800 --> 00:13:51,320 feels chaotic and unforgiving. 368 00:13:51,320 --> 00:13:55,160 And by doing so, he's pushing the boundaries of what hip hop can be, 369 00:13:55,160 --> 00:13:57,440 both sonically and thematically. 370 00:13:57,440 --> 00:14:00,040 He's definitely not your typical trap artist. 371 00:14:00,040 --> 00:14:03,560 There's a depth and vulnerability in his music that sets him apart. 372 00:14:03,560 --> 00:14:05,240 You can hear it in his delivery and the way 373 00:14:05,240 --> 00:14:09,000 he weaves together these intricate rhyme schemes of wordplay 374 00:14:09,000 --> 00:14:11,680 that reveal layers of meaning with each listen. 375 00:14:11,680 --> 00:14:14,880 His evolution as an artist has been fascinating to witness. 376 00:14:14,880 --> 00:14:18,200 From his early mixtapes to his breakout album, ESA Album, 377 00:14:18,200 --> 00:14:21,040 he's consistently pushed himself creatively experimenting 378 00:14:21,040 --> 00:14:24,840 with different sounds and styles while staying true to his authentic voice. 379 00:14:24,840 --> 00:14:27,160 And with re-drum, I think we're seeing him reach a new level 380 00:14:27,160 --> 00:14:28,440 of artistic maturity. 381 00:14:28,440 --> 00:14:31,760 Yeah, it's like he's found a way to blend his signature darkness 382 00:14:31,760 --> 00:14:35,480 with this newfound sense of introspection and social awareness. 383 00:14:35,480 --> 00:14:37,240 He's not just rapping about his experiences. 384 00:14:37,240 --> 00:14:40,560 He's reflecting on them, dissecting them, and inviting us to do the same. 385 00:14:40,560 --> 00:14:42,640 And that's what makes him such a compelling artist. 386 00:14:42,640 --> 00:14:47,200 He's not afraid to be vulnerable to expose his own flaws and contradictions. 387 00:14:47,200 --> 00:14:49,600 And in doing so, he creates a space for listeners 388 00:14:49,600 --> 00:14:52,680 to connect with him on a deeper level, to see themselves 389 00:14:52,680 --> 00:14:54,000 reflected in his music. 390 00:14:54,000 --> 00:14:57,360 Right, it's that authenticity that resonates with so many people. 391 00:14:57,360 --> 00:14:59,400 It's like he's saying, I'm not perfect. 392 00:14:59,400 --> 00:15:02,880 I've made mistakes, but I'm still here, still fighting, 393 00:15:02,880 --> 00:15:04,800 still trying to make sense of this crazy world. 394 00:15:04,800 --> 00:15:05,600 Exactly. 395 00:15:05,600 --> 00:15:08,440 And that message of resilience, of finding strength 396 00:15:08,440 --> 00:15:11,640 in the face of adversity, is incredibly powerful, 397 00:15:11,640 --> 00:15:14,920 especially for young people who are navigating their own struggles 398 00:15:14,920 --> 00:15:16,720 and searching for their place in the world. 399 00:15:16,720 --> 00:15:18,960 And it's not just about personal struggles, is it? 400 00:15:18,960 --> 00:15:23,960 21 Savage is also using his platform to address larger social issues 401 00:15:23,960 --> 00:15:26,920 to shed light on the systemic inequalities and injustices that 402 00:15:26,920 --> 00:15:28,120 plague our society. 403 00:15:28,120 --> 00:15:29,040 Absolutely. 404 00:15:29,040 --> 00:15:31,840 The choice to film the Red Drum music video in Brixton 405 00:15:31,840 --> 00:15:33,440 is a prime example of that. 406 00:15:33,440 --> 00:15:35,800 He's highlighting a community that's often overlooked, 407 00:15:35,800 --> 00:15:39,560 a community that represents the rich tapestry of Black British culture 408 00:15:39,560 --> 00:15:42,320 and the complexities of identity in a globalized world. 409 00:15:42,320 --> 00:15:45,000 Yeah, and by connecting his own story of immigration 410 00:15:45,000 --> 00:15:48,840 and the questioning of his authenticity to the experiences of others, 411 00:15:48,840 --> 00:15:52,280 he's fostering a sense of solidarity, of shared struggle and resilience. 412 00:15:52,280 --> 00:15:53,840 It's like he's saying, we're all in this together, 413 00:15:53,840 --> 00:15:56,320 and we can overcome these challenges if we support each other. 414 00:15:56,320 --> 00:15:59,320 That message of unity and collective action is incredibly important, 415 00:15:59,320 --> 00:16:02,440 especially in today's world, where division and fear are often used 416 00:16:02,440 --> 00:16:04,600 to pit people against each other. 417 00:16:04,600 --> 00:16:08,560 So as we wrap up this deep dive into 21 Savage's Red Drum, 418 00:16:08,560 --> 00:16:10,800 I think the key takeaway is this. 419 00:16:10,800 --> 00:16:13,240 Music has the power to transcend boundaries, 420 00:16:13,240 --> 00:16:16,080 to spark conversations, to challenge our perceptions, 421 00:16:16,080 --> 00:16:18,440 and to connect us on a deeper level. 422 00:16:18,440 --> 00:16:21,880 And 21 Savage, with his unique blend of darkness, vulnerability, 423 00:16:21,880 --> 00:16:24,920 and social awareness, is at the forefront of that movement. 424 00:16:24,920 --> 00:16:26,000 Beautifully said. 425 00:16:26,000 --> 00:16:27,920 He's an artist who's constantly evolving, 426 00:16:27,920 --> 00:16:29,280 pushing the limits of his craft, 427 00:16:29,280 --> 00:16:32,320 and using his platform to make a real difference in the world. 428 00:16:32,320 --> 00:16:35,800 And Red Drum is a powerful testament to his artistic vision 429 00:16:35,800 --> 00:16:38,520 and his commitment to using music as a force for change. 430 00:16:38,520 --> 00:16:41,920 All right, hip hop nerds, that's a wrap on episode nine. 431 00:16:41,920 --> 00:16:45,800 We hope you enjoyed this deep dive into 21 Savage's Red Drum. 432 00:16:45,800 --> 00:16:48,240 What started as a simple exploration of a word 433 00:16:48,240 --> 00:16:51,320 has turned into a journey through the complexities of violence identity 434 00:16:51,320 --> 00:16:54,600 and the power of music to spark meaningful conversations. 435 00:16:54,600 --> 00:16:56,840 Until next time, keep exploring the unexpected, 436 00:16:56,840 --> 00:16:58,040 keep those minds open, 437 00:16:58,040 --> 00:17:00,320 and keep pushing the boundaries of what hip hop can be. 438 00:17:00,320 --> 00:17:25,520 We'll catch you on the flip side.