"Grew Up Hard" by Ghostface Killah is a song that reflects on the hardships and struggles faced while growing up in a rough environment. The lyrics depict the artist reminiscing about his past experiences and the lessons he learned along the way. The song begins with Trife Da God setting the mood, mentioning his friend Halloween and their aspirations to become successful. He mentions sipping on a drink, possibly to relax and reflect on his life. Trife Da God then delves into his upbringing, stating that he is getting his "grown man on" with his partner. He listens to classic soul music and slow jams, specifically referencing Smokey Robinson's "Tears of a Clown" which evokes emotions and memories. He also discusses the loss of friends and acquaintances, highlighting the violence and dangers of his neighborhood. The chorus, performed by Solomon Childs, emphasizes the toughness and resilience he developed growing up. He acknowledges that while others may have faced difficult circumstances, he has maintained his strength and refuses to be held down. Trife Da God continues with lines about his mother's teachings, emphasizing the importance of not wasting food. He recalls childhood moments of being teased but now looks back on them with humor. He also touches on his relationship with his father, mentioning that even though they were close, it didn't prevent him from getting involved in drug dealing. Reflecting on his past choices, Trife Da God conveys a sense of growth and maturity. He mentions his current endeavors, such as pursuing his goals and making money. He reminisces about spending time with friends, having fun and getting drunk in the studio. He acknowledges that some talented individuals resort to vices due to lack of opportunities. The song addresses the difficulty of escaping the cycle of poverty and broken homes. Trife Da God refers to government assistance programs like WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) and the struggles faced by children growing up in such environments. He mentions the lost potential of individuals who could have excelled in sports, like the next Jordan or Emmitt Smith, but are hindered by their circumstances. Trife Da God ends the song by mentioning his determination to overcome these challenges and achieve success. He refuses to fall into gimmicks and instead focuses on making money and paving his own way. The outro acknowledges his journey from the projects to a place of success, specifically mentioning Stapleton Houses and Toney Starks Enterprise, a reference to Ghostface Killah's alter ego.
