J Hus's composition, "Must Be," orchestrated by JAE5, engages with the intricate facets of street life, human relationships, and the repercussions tied to affiliations with particular elements. The lyrics of this song, laden with gritty realism, unfold a vivid narrative, illuminating the myriad challenges and decisions confronting individuals traversing a realm characterized by violence, allegiance, and an unceasing pursuit of validation.
The pivotal theme within the song orbits the notion of culpability through association. The recurring and incisive mantra, "Man you're guilty, so you're guilty by association," resonates as an unwavering reminder of the unforgiving veracities attached to involvement in a network of alliances and affiliations. The term "opp," an abbreviation for opposition, signifies adversaries or enemies within the context of the streets.
J Hus adeptly employs vivid imagery and an unambiguous narrative to articulate the attributes of an "opp." The assertive lines, "If it walk like an opp / Talk like an opp / Smell like an opp / Then it must be a..." establish a discernible checklist of behaviors and traits designating an individual as an adversary within the perspective of the narrator.
The lyrical verses unravel scenes of street life, ranging from the witnessing of violence to the relentless pursuit of affluence and social standing. The lyrics encapsulate a gritty reality, as exemplified by the lines, "Man get the guap up, then man get the drop top / Gal in a crop top, man get the thumbs up." This contrast between material success and the harshness of street life accentuates the narrative's complexity and the multifaceted experiences of the narrator.
As the narrative evolves, J Hus delves into the intricacies of relationships within this demanding milieu. The lines, "You laugh with the opps, you smile with the opps / You gon' cry with the opps, make him fly with the opps," accentuate the blurred boundaries between alliances and betrayals, underscoring the inevitable consequences awaiting those entwined with certain associations.
The song culminates with contemplation on guilt and responsibility, reiterating the assertion that culpability is inevitable under specific circumstances. The refrain of "If it walk like an opp / Talk like an opp / Smell like an opp / Then it must be..." poignantly reinforces the constant vigilance essential for navigating a world where appearances and associations wield profound consequences.
In offering "Must Be," J Hus provides listeners with an unfiltered glimpse into the challenges of street life, investigating themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the inexorable ramifications linked to associations with specific individuals. The narrative, crafted with vivid imagery and unvarnished authenticity, invites reflection on the harsh realities confronting those enmeshed in this intricate societal tapestry.
