The song "West Side" by The Game is a representation of his affiliation with the West Side of Los Angeles, particularly the neighborhood of Cedar Block Piru, a subset of the Bloods gang. The lyrics depict the street life, gang culture, and violence associated with this environment. The opening lines of the song highlight the rapper's pride and loyalty to his neighborhood, expressing his allegiance through references to gang colors (rag hangin'), religious symbols (Crucifix), and gang signs (twistin' my fingers). He also mentions his fashion choices, such as an Off-White Impala, an ADIDAS tracksuit, and a ski mask. The lyrics emphasize the harsh realities of the West Side, with mentions of carrying a loaded gun (Chokin' the MAC) and being ready for confrontations. The Game mentions his readiness to commit violence, lyrics suggest that he and his gang members are prepared to use their weapons. The song also touches on the dangers of social media and the potential consequences of posting incriminating activities online. The Game warns others not to get themselves killed by disrespecting others on platforms like Instagram Live. The second verse continues the theme of violence and criminal activities, expressing a disregard for the law and a willingness to engage in illegal actions. There's a mention of robbing and burying individuals alive, conveying a sense of fearlessness and dominance. The lyrics convey a survival-of-the-fittest mentality, where only the strongest individuals can thrive in this environment. The Game asserts his own strength and authenticity, referring to himself as real and unbeatable. He also mentions his weapon of choice, a Glock nine with a blue steel finish, and boasts about the luxury item adorning his gun holster, a chinchilla. The chorus repeats the phrase "West Side" to emphasize the rapper's pride and affiliation with his neighborhood. The third verse delves into the struggles of growing up in an impoverished neighborhood and engaging in illegal activities to survive. The Game talks about selling drugs and the cyclical nature of the trade, where he turns a profit and reinvests it in more expensive possessions, like turning a drug profit into owning a Benz. There's also a reference to evading law enforcement during drug raids and the consequences of snitching. The Game expresses a lack of concern for the consequences of his actions and mentions being on the run. The lyrics touch on his interactions with women, stating that he's not looking for love but rather using them for pleasure with no trust involved. He also mentions needing to hire an Uber for a woman to leave after their encounter, indicating a transactional relationship. Towards the end of the song, The Game reiterates his loyalty to Cedar Block Piru, stating that he will never stop representing and claiming his neighborhood. He talks about raising his price for collaborations after releasing this album, suggesting the success and influence he has achieved in the rap industry. Overall, "West Side" portrays The Game's pride, loyalty, and experiences growing up in the streets of Los Angeles. It highlights the gang culture, violence, and survival instincts that define his upbringing and persona.
