"Like That" by Future Lyrics Meaning
“Like That” is a commanding collaboration between Future, Kendrick Lamar, and Metro Boomin, blending braggadocio, street storytelling, and raw reflection. The song is a blend of Future's hedonistic charisma and Kendrick's sharp, confrontational lyricism, all underscored by Metro Boomin's dark and atmospheric production. Together, they deliver a track that’s both a celebration of success and a stark reminder of the gritty realities that shaped them.
At its core, “Like That” explores themes of perseverance and the relentless pursuit of success against the backdrop of street life. The chorus reflects this ethos:
"Young dope dealer, sellin' dope, is you like that? / Kickin' doors, kickin' in doors, is you like that?"
This refrain serves as both a challenge and a badge of honor, highlighting the trials and resilience required to thrive in environments where survival often comes at a cost. The recurring question, “Is you like that?” reinforces the idea of authenticity—only the strong and the real can claim to be “like that.”
Future opens the song with his signature blend of gritty realism and indulgent excess. Lines like:
"Stickin' to the code, all these hoes for the streets / I put it in her nose, it's gon' make her pussy leak"
exemplify his unfiltered style, merging street ethics with provocative imagery. His brash delivery conveys a sense of detachment, reflecting the emotional cost of living in such a high-stakes world.
In the outro, Future doubles down on his success while acknowledging the risks that come with it:
"Locked in and now I got my Phantom and my driver / Perc'd out, took chances in my hood like Nevada."
This line encapsulates the juxtaposition of luxury and danger that defines much of his narrative.
Kendrick Lamar’s verse stands out for its sharp wordplay and intense energy. He takes aim at those who question his dominance, delivering lines like:
"What? I'm really like that / And your best work is a light pack."
Kendrick’s confidence is unshakeable, but his verse also delves into the paranoia and trauma that accompany his success:
"Lost too many soldiers not to play it safe / If he walk around with that stick, it ain't André 3K."
Here, he reflects on the personal losses that have shaped his worldview, underscoring the high stakes of his position. His ability to seamlessly blend introspection with aggression elevates his verse, making it both a boast and a warning.
Metro Boomin’s production creates the perfect backdrop for the track’s themes of power and survival. The beat is ominous and layered, with deep basslines and sparse melodies that emphasize the intensity of the lyrics. The inclusion of Michel'le’s “He Was Once a Thug from Around the Way” sample adds a haunting, nostalgic touch, grounding the track in hip-hop’s storytelling tradition.
The chorus, repeated throughout the track, acts as a rallying cry:
"Young dope dealer, sellin' dope, is you like that? / Kickin' doors, kickin' in doors, is you like that?"
This repetition reinforces the song’s central message of authenticity and resilience, while Michel'le’s post-chorus sample:
"He was once a thug from around the way,"
provides a reflective counterpoint, reminding listeners of the journey from humble beginnings to dominance.
“Like That” is a gritty anthem that showcases the distinct styles of Future and Kendrick Lamar while amplifying the dark, cinematic production of Metro Boomin. The track is as much about asserting dominance as it is about reflecting on the cost of that power. Through vivid storytelling, sharp lyricism, and commanding delivery, Future and Kendrick paint a portrait of success earned through resilience and authenticity.
With its hard-hitting lyrics and brooding production, “Like That” solidifies its place as a standout collaboration, capturing the unrelenting hustle and unapologetic confidence that define the artists behind it.
