The song "Westside Story" by The Game is an anthem for the West Coast rap scene, particularly focusing on Compton, California. The lyrics depict The Game's street credibility and pride in his hometown. In the first verse, he starts by listing various gang affiliations and ethnicities present in Compton, emphasizing the diversity of the community. He dismisses the notion that the West Coast rap scene fell off by stating that he, along with others like Nate Dogg and DPG (Tha Dogg Pound), have been keeping it alive. He expresses his love for California and how he represents his state, while also taking shots at rival record labels. The chorus reinforces the gangster persona, claiming that The Game will be a gangster until he dies with the help of California chronic (marijuana) keeping him high. He proudly states that he represents the Westside. In the second verse, The Game continues to assert his gangster lifestyle, mentioning low-riding in his Chevrolet Impala with gold rims and hydraulics. He refers to violent acts and the reality of gangbanging in his neighborhood. He also references Snoop Dogg, a fellow West Coast rapper, and C-Walking, a dance associated with gang culture. He dismisses critics and threatens violence towards them, claiming that the red strings on his Converse shoes (a gang affiliation) and the involvement of producer Dr. Dre make him a force to be reckoned with. The third verse highlights The Game's connections to various cities, such as New York and Nashville (Cashville), indicating his influence and connections across the United States. He mentions G-Unit, the rap group led by 50 Cent, and the support he receives from different neighborhoods. He compares himself to iconic characters from movies like "Friday" and "Juice," asserting his power and dominance in the rap game. He ends the verse by acknowledging the pressure and weight he carries as a representative of Compton. Overall, "Westside Story" is an aggressive and boastful track that showcases The Game's affiliation with gang culture, representation of the West Coast rap scene, and his musical prowess.
