"Illegal" by Hanybal is a German rap song that depicts the life of individuals involved in illegal activities such as drug dealing. The lyrics portray the protagonist's experiences and perspective living in Frankfurt-Nordwest, an area known for its criminal activities. The song begins by highlighting the constant fear of running from the police due to their pockets being full of drugs. The lyrics suggest that they make people "stoned" and are always on the move. The primary objective is to make money, in this case, millions, through the drug trade. However, there is always the looming question of when the police will come to apprehend them. The next verses focus on the risks the protagonist takes to avoid a life of financial struggles (symbolized by a minimum wage). They prefer to sell drugs at high prices but buy them at low prices, even if it means waiting for a long time for the delivery. These repeated stories and experiences are typical in their neighborhood. The lyrics also highlight the appeal of material wealth, including luxury cars like the S-Class and wine-colored leather interiors. They disregard legal consequences by pressing drug capsules and ignore court cases, confident that their lawyers will handle it. The constant pursuit of money and status drives the protagonist, referring to their lifestyle as a "hunt for money." The chorus emphasizes their involvement in the drug trade, representing it as a hunt for "flesh" (symbolic of money or success). They describe themselves as lions hunting for their prey, viewing their illegal activities as a means of survival and financial success. In the second verse, the lyrics portray a conversation between Hany and his friends, acknowledging the hardships they face, including receiving letters from prison. Hany's friends encourage him to keep going, applauding his talents, and believing that he will soon drive a Mercedes-Benz as a sign of his success. The lyrics express a desire to escape from their current circumstances through substance use, emphasizing their resilience and dedication to living the "hard life." They hustle hard for their community and friends who are currently incarcerated, aiming to provide better lives for themselves and their loved ones, including owning houses. Though Hany expresses frustration at not finding a stable relationship, he suggests that he may spend his life with temporary partners. He also questions the authenticity and permanence of his lifestyle, wondering if it's all just a dream or a show. The chorus is repeated again, highlighting the illegal activities they engage in, such as packaging and selling drugs for payment of rent. The lyrics also touch on the use of counterfeit goods, indicating their willingness to engage in illegal practices for financial gain. Overall, "Illegal" portrays the struggles, risks, and motivations of individuals involved in the illegal drug trade. It offers a glimpse into the mindset and lifestyle of these individuals, highlighting the pursuit of wealth and status while acknowledging the dangers and consequences that come with it.
