The song "Dream While I'm Awake" by Jelly Roll explores themes of perseverance, faith, and personal growth. The lyrics depict the struggles and challenges the artist has faced throughout his life and his determination to overcome them. The song starts by pondering what would happen if Jesus Christ came back as a homeless person. It questions whether people would even notice, highlighting the lack of empathy and recognition towards those in need. Jelly Roll reflects on his own experiences and acknowledges that he has not always treated others well or shown gratitude for what he owes them. The lyrics then delve into Jelly Roll's personal journey, emphasizing his transformation and realization that he needed to change. He talks about his past hardships, such as having to eat moldy food and sleeping on different couches. Despite the obstacles, he managed to become successful and now shares his story with the world. He expresses gratitude towards his father and acknowledges that he can finally rest in peace, possibly referring to his father's passing. The chorus of the song portrays Jelly Roll's ongoing struggles and the determination to find a way out. He prays for guidance and a better path while remaining hopeful. The repetition of "I only dream while I'm awake" reinforces his mindset of relentlessly pursuing his dreams and aspirations. The lyrics also touch on Jelly Roll's experiences in the music industry and the challenges he has faced. He discusses feeling rejected and the pressure to conform to others' expectations. Despite the doubts and criticism, he stays true to himself and perseveres. He addresses the stereotype that a white rapper cannot rap about selling drugs, reflecting on his own background and experiences. Jelly Roll acknowledges that money and success are fleeting, emphasizing the importance of living in the present moment. He acknowledges the criticism he faces based on his appearance and the industry's focus on image and gimmicks. However, he remains steadfast in his authenticity and expresses a desire to continue making music, never taking his talent for granted. Overall, "Dream While I'm Awake" conveys the artist's journey from adversity to self-improvement and the pursuit of dreams. It reflects on the challenges he has faced, his resilience, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
