Stormzy's song "Return of the Rucksack" stands as a commanding proclamation within the realm of grime music. Within this track, Stormzy eloquently explores a variety of themes, prominently including authenticity, success, and the importance of remaining true to oneself. Delving deep into his personal journey within the music industry, Stormzy adamantly refuses to engage in trivial conflicts or exploit his name for fleeting fame.
A central theme threaded throughout the song is Stormzy's aversion to participating in clashes or battles with lesser MCs. He outright dismisses the notion of involvement in events like "Lord of the Mics," firmly asserting his stance as being above such endeavors. Stormzy staunchly declares his independence from being pigeonholed by the grime genre or the culture of clashes, asserting his individuality and steadfastly refusing to conform to societal expectations.
Moreover, Stormzy artfully weaves reflections of his success and stature within the industry into his lyrics. References to material possessions such as expensive watches and cars, coupled with mentions of his ability to command attention from women, serve to underscore his achievements. Yet, amidst these nods to opulence, Stormzy humbly juxtaposes reminders of his modest beginnings, harkening back to his early days riding a bicycle and striving to carve out a name for himself.
Stormzy's unwavering confidence radiates throughout the song as he boldly proclaims himself the preeminent figure within the music scene. He cautions against underestimating his prowess and unabashedly boasts about his capacity to leave an indelible mark with his music. His proclamation that it is "album time" hints at his aspirations to make a profound impact with his forthcoming releases.
Additionally, Stormzy confronts the issue of loyalty and integrity within the music industry head-on. He calls out those who seek to exploit his name for personal gain and stresses the significance of diligence and dedication. Stormzy's lyrics serve as a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft and his resolute determination to ascend on his own terms.
In the chorus, Stormzy emphatically reiterates the phrase "I roll deep on these," asserting his dominance and influence over fellow MCs. With a stern warning to his competitors, he showcases his ability to subdue any opposition with ease. The repetition of this refrain serves to underscore Stormzy's message, reinforcing his confidence and swagger.
In summary, "Return of the Rucksack" emerges as a bold declaration of Stormzy's identity and his position within the music industry. It serves as a testament to his lyrical finesse, unwavering confidence, and refusal to conform to societal norms. Stormzy's authenticity and determination shine through in every verse, cementing this track as a standout within his illustrious discography.
