The song "Rap Millionaire" by Joell Ortiz and !llmind explores various themes related to the music industry and Ortiz's personal experiences as a rapper. In the song, Ortiz contemplates the impact of his rap verses ("bars") on listeners. He questions whether people would care if he dropped a few powerful bars out of thin air and if it would have the same effect as those of popular rap millionaires. He ponders if his words would generate millions of shares and break the internet. Ortiz also addresses the idea of popularity and success in the rap industry. He acknowledges that he does not make music solely to gain popularity or be regarded as "hot." Instead, he creates music for those who appreciate skilled lyricism and are knowledgeable about rap history. He compares himself to legendary boxers Muhammad Ali and George Foreman, highlighting his dedication to his craft. The song also touches upon the realities of being an artist who is not yet recognized on a mainstream level. Ortiz expresses that he has not yet achieved the same level of success as major artists who have connections to popular streaming platforms or influential label representatives. Despite this, he emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of his lyrics, ensuring that they remain authentic and impactful. Ortiz critiques other rappers who prioritize fame over talent and substance, highlighting the prevalence of drug references in contemporary rap music. He aims to be a force for change, advocating for good subject matter to regain prominence within the genre. The artist also reflects on his own experiences as a fan of rap music. He reminisces about his younger days, where he would listen to rap songs on a cassette player and flip the tape to rewind or fast forward to his favorite parts. Ortiz acknowledges that he may be considered "old" in a game that often overlooks veterans, but he asserts his confidence in his lyrical abilities and knowledge of the genre. Throughout the song, Ortiz flaunts his wordplay and clever metaphors, expressing his disdain for rappers he deems subpar. He asserts his dedication to his craft and the city of Brooklyn, asserting that he rides for himself like a "Uber car" and is not concerned with others' opinions. Ortiz concludes by mentioning his past accomplishments, such as being featured on the XXL Freshman cover, and emphasizes his commitment to real hip-hop, contrasting it with the superficiality often associated with reality TV show Love & Hip-Hop. Overall, "Rap Millionaire" serves as both a commentary on the music industry and a testament to Ortiz's passion for rap music, showcasing his skills as an artist.
