Kanye West's track "Follow God," from his 2019 album "Jesus Is King," is a deeply introspective and poignant song that explores the realms of spirituality, faith, and personal introspection. The song intricately examines West's connections with both God and his biological father, Ray West, while raising profound questions about the essence of being "Christlike." It serves as a reflection of West's path towards spiritual enlightenment and liberation.
The lyrics of "Follow God" offer multiple layers of interpretation, predominantly centered around West's struggles with his faith and his endeavors to conquer personal challenges. The initial verses, "Father, I stretch, stretch my hands to You. Lifelike, this is what your life like," are emblematic of West reaching out to God, divulging his difficulties with faith. This candid admission suggests West's identification with Jesus Christ and his ambition to lead a life parallel to Christ's teachings.
In the song, West confronts his inner conflicts with faith, encapsulated in the lines, "Trying to keep my faith, but I’m looking for more. Somewhere I can feel safe and end my holy war." These verses signify his quest for a sanctuary of spiritual security and an end to his internal spiritual struggles. The chorus, "Follow, follow, follow God. I’ma go, I’ma go, I’ma go hard," acts as a clarion call to listeners, urging them to adhere to God's teachings and signaling West's dedication to his own spiritual journey.
Recognized as one of Kanye West's most religiously profound tracks, "Follow God" showcases his often-discussed journey towards Christianity. West has been open about how his faith has been instrumental in surmounting challenges related to drug addiction and mental health issues. In this track, West directly communicates with God, expressing his earnest desire to follow Him and seek His divine guidance. The song's overarching message encourages listeners to remain steadfast in their faith, living with conviction and dedication despite life's trials and tribulations.
Musically, "Follow God" features introspective verses laid over a foundation of robust bass and soulful samples, highlighting West's self-examination and the complexities of aspiring to a Christ-like existence amidst the turmoil of contemporary life. The musical composition synergizes with the song's thematic substance, forming a powerful and resonant work that not only mirrors West's personal spiritual odyssey but also inspires listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and convictions.
Overall, "Follow God" is a significant composition in Kanye West's discography, delving into the intricacies of a faith-guided life. It stands as a testament to West's evolution as an artist capable of articulating profound spiritual and personal messages through his music. This particular track underscores West's readiness to reveal his vulnerabilities and struggles, offering a deeply personal insight into his spiritual and personal growth.
