Released in 2024, “Timeless” by the Weeknd and Playboi Carti is a hip-hop song with themes of self-assurance and legacy. It’s a track about resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of an enduring legacy.
Below you’ll find a section-by-section breakdown of the lyrics in “Timeless.”
- Song: Timeless
- Artists: The Weeknd, Playboi Carti
- Songwriters: Abel Tesfaye, Pharrell Williams, Michael DeanMark Williams, Raul Cubina, Jarrod Morgan, Kobe Hood, Tariq Sharrieff, Devon Chisolm
- Released: 2024
- Album: Hurry Up Tomorrow
- Genre: Hip-hop
The Foundations of Confidence
Ever since I was a jit, knew I was the shit
Shorty keep wanna come ’round, she wanna get hit
Here, the word “jit” (a slang term for a young person) shows a youthful certainty of greatness.
These lyrics convey that this sense of confidence has been present since childhood.
The lines also highlight a recurring theme of personal magnetism. Others are drawn to the lifestyle he embodies.
The recurring imagery of luxury, like “Double-O, bust down the watch,” symbolizes success while underscoring the notion that time, or timelessness, is a constant in his life.
A Struggle with Inner Demons
Playboi Carti’s verse dives into the darker side of success, as he admits to wrestling with internal conflicts:
I’m wrestlin’ all of my demons, I feel like The Rock
This line cleverly juxtaposes the strength associated with professional wrestler Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and the personal battles Carti faces.
By drawing this comparison, he highlights the universal truth that even the most confident individuals grapple with insecurities.
The metaphorical wrestling match also serves to humanize him, adding depth to his seemingly invincible persona.
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Eternal Legacy in “Timeless”
The Weeknd’s chorus is a declaration of his enduring influence and immortality:
Ever since I was a kid, I been legit
XO tatted all over her body, yeah
It don’t matter what they say, I’m timeless, yeah
The phrase “XO tatted all over her body” ties into the Weeknd’s brand and the loyalty of his fan base. It also shows the permanence of his artistry and influence.
When he states, “It don’t matter what they say, I’m timeless,” he dismisses detractors, affirming his unwavering relevance.
The repeated use of “timeless” reinforces the song’s central theme, an enduring legacy that transcends fleeting trends.
The Price of Success
The second verse balances themes of triumph with the sacrifices that accompany fame:
City on fire when I’m comin’ home
Fill up the sky, I fill up the Dome
These lines emphasize the Weeknd’s star power and ability to captivate audiences.
However, the lyric “But it’s gonna hurt ’cause we did it first” hints at the bittersweet nature of success, as trailblazers often face criticism despite paving the way for others.
Broke his heart, PTSD
Hold his chest, let it breathe
This acknowledges the emotional toll of past relationships and the challenges of moving forward.
By intertwining personal pain with larger-than-life achievements, they remind listeners that success often comes at a cost.
Similar Songs to “Timeless”
1. “Stronger” by Kanye West
“Stronger” celebrates resilience and overcoming adversity, with driving beats and a confident tone that underline its themes of personal triumph. The song’s futuristic production and powerful lyrics mirror the energy and determination found in “Timeless.”
2. “HUMBLE.” by Kendrick Lamar
“HUMBLE.” tackles themes of self-awareness and staying grounded, complementing the sound and feel of “Timeless.” Its thought-provoking lyrics emphasize the importance of humility amidst success.
3. “SICKO MODE” by Travis Scott
“SICKO MODE” is about the highs and lows of fame, making it thematically similar to “Timeless.” The dynamic structure and layered storytelling in the song echo the complexities of balancing success and personal challenges.
4. “Heartless” by the Weeknd
“Heartless” addresses the emotional toll of fame and the sacrifices required to sustain it, aligning closely with the themes of “Timeless.” The dark production and candid lyrics underline the cost of living a larger-than-life persona.
Conclusion
“Timeless” is a powerful track that is all about self-confidence, resilience, and enduring legacy. The lyrics, blending personal struggles with triumph, resonate on multiple levels and remind listeners of the challenges that accompany greatness.
You can listen to “Timeless” right now on Spotify and Amazon.
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