The song "Could've" by Justin Stone explores themes of determination, resilience, and self-belief. The lyrics depict a journey of overcoming obstacles and striving for success. The opening lines, "Could've had my back against the wall, then I remember I got a city on my back," suggest that the artist could have given up or felt defeated, but instead, he draws strength from the support of his hometown. This reinforces the idea that he has a strong sense of community and feels empowered by the people around him. The verses go on to highlight the artist's achievements and growth in his career. He mentions breaking the mold and gaining recognition in the music industry. Despite the critics who claim to be on the rise themselves, the artist remains humble and acknowledges that he still has a long way to go. He also mentions slipping up with his lyrics, indicating that he is human and makes mistakes but continues to learn and improve as an artist. The chorus emphasizes the artist's determination and refusal to conform to societal expectations. He states that he won't "grow up" in the sense of losing his ambition and drive, but he is headed to "the campus" which could refer to his pursuit of further success and growth in his career. The repeated lines "Never coulda done this, never coulda ran this" could represent the doubts and challenges he has faced along the way, but he affirms his abilities and resilience. In the later verses, the artist reflects on his journey and the sacrifices he has made. He mentions the lack of sleep and the need to constantly be on guard against complacency. The reference to Forrest Gump driving and seeing things without "morse code" suggests that he is actively exploring new territories and navigating through life with determination. The mention of cameras and tourists implies that the artist is on the rise and gaining attention, but he remains grounded and focused on his goals. He likens his mindset to that of a football player from the San Francisco 49ers, who is known for their determination and drive. The artist also references characters from popular television shows like "Recess" and "Saved by the Bell," suggesting that he sees himself as a hero or main character in his own story. Overall, "Could've" is a motivational anthem that encourages listeners to pursue their dreams and overcome challenges. It showcases Justin Stone's journey of self-discovery, growth, and determination in the face of adversity.
