"Lose My Mind" by Joell Ortiz & KXNG Crooked is a song that delves into the struggles and hardships faced by the artists while growing up in their respective neighborhoods. The lyrics depict a vivid narrative of poverty, violence, and the constant fight for survival. The song begins with a mention of the artists' grandmothers, who acted as guiding figures in their lives. However, the subsequent lines paint a picture of a difficult environment. They talk about broken radiators, enduring cold days, and the absence of basic necessities like hot water due to an elevator malfunction. The lyrics then touch upon various adversities faced by the artists, such as financial struggles, drug addiction, and the violence prevalent in their neighborhood. They describe living in impoverished conditions and resorting to makeshift solutions, like bathing with stove-heated water. The artists also mention witnessing acts of violence, such as a shooting, and the psychological toll it took on them at a young age. They express the feeling of being trapped and idolizing no one, having nobody to look up to. The reference to "28 grams" refers to a bottle size, which implies the involvement in drug-related activities. The artists acknowledge the monetization and monopolization of their block and reflect on their survival in such an environment. The lyrics then switch to the struggles faced by the artists individually. They mention instances like having their electricity cut off and resorting to using an extension cord to power their entertainment. They also talk about their mothers' boyfriends neglecting financial responsibilities while having access to marijuana. The following lines highlight the artists' aspirations for better lives, dreaming of owning their desired shoes and escaping their inner demons. They reflect on dropping out of school and turning to the streets to make ends meet. The lyrics touch on the challenges of growing up in such circumstances, witnessing violence, and keeping the pain hidden from their loved ones. In the final section, the artists discuss their experiences with post-traumatic stress disorder and normalize the lies and falsehoods they encounter. They mention the absence of positive male role models and the impact it had on their lives. The song concludes with the artists' determination to break free from the cycle of victimhood and find success despite the adversities they've faced. Overall, "Lose My Mind" is a powerful and introspective song that sheds light on the harsh realities of growing up in disadvantaged environments and the struggle to rise above them.
