"Photograph (Remix)" by Jimmy The Human is a track that showcases the artist's confidence and determination. Throughout the song, Jimmy takes on a confrontational tone towards J. Cole, emphasizing his own skill and claiming he can outshine him on his own beat. This suggests his desire to prove himself in the rap industry and attain recognition despite being relatively unknown. By stating "There’s a reason that the hottest heat is always underground," Jimmy acknowledges the immense talent that often resides within the underground music scene and hints at his own potential to create powerful, impactful music.
In the first verse, Jimmy expresses his disregard for those who talk negatively and showcases his self-assuredness. He mentions that he doesn't engage in pointless arguments and prefers a minimalist approach, stating, "I don’t really talk shit, less is more." This line exemplifies his belief that actions speak louder than words and that he is not interested in waste time engaging in meaningless exchanges.
His references to being in a different state of mind through music, stating "Music got me in la-la-land," indicate that music serves as an escape and a source of inspiration for him. He feels thankful for not being like those who hinder him and confidently states, "Not like you, I feel sorry, man." The line, "And if you ask for a handout, in like 5 years, I'll bite off that hand," reveals his determination to succeed without relying on others' assistance.
Jimmy then addresses those who criticize his music, suggesting that they are jealous of his intelligence and creativity. He mentions the frustration he feels towards individuals trapped in monotonous nine-to-five jobs, poking at their lack of ambition and willingness to break free from mediocrity. By exclaiming, "There goes my drive," he signifies that their negative energy can disrupt his motivation and creative flow.
The second verse centers around Jimmy's prowess as a lyricist and his dismissal of conventional expectations. He boasts about his ability to ghostwrite and compares himself to Nicholas Cage, indicating his belief that he is superior in this regard. He challenges his listeners, claiming that if they think they're shocked now, they should wait for what he has in store for them.
Jimmy employs clever wordplay and metaphors to convey his individuality and superiority. For instance, he contrasts collecting corn with "Harvest Drake," playing on the idea of harvesting success and referencing Drake's hit song "God's Plan." This suggests that Jimmy's ambitions and achievements surpass those of his peers. He continues by warning others not to mess with him, stating that if they do, they will face the consequences like confronting a bull and receiving its horns.
Throughout the verse, Jimmy emphasizes his uniqueness and ability to stand out from the crowd. He describes his mind as gifted, making it difficult for others to understand him. This highlights his unconventional thinking and hints at the complexity of his lyrics. He then goes on to compare his success to being in a spaceship while his critics remain grounded in an "aged Lincoln," emphasizing the stark contrast between their positions in life.
Jimmy's lyrics also tackle social issues and systemic problems. He mentions working tirelessly until his legs twitch, implying that he puts in more effort and dedication than most people. He juxtaposes the idea of being self-made with the concept of being controlled by society's expectations, subverting the notion of success and individual agency. This highlights his rejection of conforming to societal norms and his determination to carve his own path.
In the final moments of the song, Jimmy pays homage to J. Cole, expressing his admiration for the influential rapper who inspired him to pursue a career in rap. His mention of J. Cole's track "Love Yourz" indicates that he resonates with the sentiment of appreciating one's own life and embracing individuality — a theme that runs throughout the song.
Overall, "Photograph (Remix)" by Jimmy The Human delves into themes of self-confidence, ambition, and the desire to break free from societal limitations. By showcasing his lyrical skill, Jimmy asserts his position as an underground artist who is ready to make a significant impact in the rap industry.