"Listen" by Ghetts is a song that reflects on his journey and success in the music industry. The lyrics delve into his experiences growing up in East London, the challenges he faced, and how he overcame them. The song starts with Ghetts reminiscing about a time in 2007 when he claimed that grime music wouldn't bring him financial stability. However, he now finds himself in a five-bedroom house, proving that he was wrong. He also references his early days when he used to tell people that they could only share BMWs and Porsches, implying that he has come a long way from those moments. Ghetts mentions his upbringing in East London, where they didn't have a Morley's (a popular fast-food chain), but still enjoyed their own favorite dishes. Throughout the song, Ghetts emphasizes how he has progressed from being a street-corner presence to engaging in business discussions with corporate figures. He boasts about his earnings from endorsements and establishes that he has created his own path and identity, similar to a horseman with his own lane. Ghetts acknowledges the struggles and hardships he has faced in life, mentioning how sickening it is to know what he has made from endorsements and asserting that he has dealt with difficult situations by resorting to desperate measures. He comes from an era where guarding secrets and protecting oneself from being recorded was important. The artist also touches on the theme of mortality and the fragility of life. He mentions his experiences witnessing deaths, which have made him regretful and remorseful. Ghetts emphasizes that bad things happen to good people, advising listeners to not stand too close to their friends who might be involved in risky activities. The song transitions to Ghetts discussing the environment he grew up in, referring to the city as a concrete jungle with various dangers and challenges. He mentions the presence of lions, gorillas, and crocs, symbolizing the dangers faced in the neighborhood. He also mentions the language used by young men in his area, which includes references to guns, violence, and drugs. Ghetts expresses that he doesn't follow football much but acknowledges a brilliant shot when he sees one. He states that he won't applaud when he hears innocent people being harmed, and he can be easily deceived only when he chooses to be ignorant. The artist asserts his strong connection to spirituality, claiming that he answers God's call and has a mission. He refers to his '90s upbringing as a rude boy with militant characteristics. Ghetts warns his adversaries not to try him, as he is ready to retaliate. The lyrics then shift focus to Ghetts' success and his ability to make wise financial decisions. He doesn't spend recklessly and avoids being taken advantage of. He mentions his interactions with women and how he is stored in one woman's phone as Gendo. Ghetts concludes by asserting that his relationship with his girlfriend is exceptional but acknowledges that some of his lyrics might get him into trouble. He ends the song on a slightly menacing note, warning others not to mess with him, or he might bring trouble their way. Overall, "Listen" is a reflection of Ghetts' journey from his humble beginnings in East London to his triumphs in the music industry. The song touches on themes of success, survival, spirituality, and the challenges faced in life.
