The song "Seventeen" by Rich Brian expresses confidence and success in the face of adversity. The lyrics convey a sense of pride and ambition as the artist reflects on his rise to fame and how it has changed his relationships with others.
In the first verse, Rich Brian addresses the haters and critics who may doubt his abilities. He emphasizes his determination to succeed and dismisses any negativity or jealousy. He boasts about his talent and the attention he receives, suggesting that his accomplishments speak for themselves. The mention of signing papers and having a bag full of cash indicates that he is experiencing financial success in his career.
The chorus highlights his youth and the rapid rise of his popularity. He describes the routine of watching his numbers grow, referring to his increasing fan base and success. His old friends reach out to him, expressing a desire to go back in time to experience his current success. This suggests that his achievements have surpassed their expectations and that they now regret not being a part of his journey. The reference to Ice Cube and the line "hit 'em with no vaseline" suggests that Rich Brian retaliates against those who doubted or betrayed him by delivering sharp and uncensored responses.
The post-chorus reaffirms his refusal to engage in conflicts or entertain those who bring negativity. He dismisses any offers or requests for beef, indicating that he does not involve himself in drama. The line "this dick ain't free" metaphorically implies that he is aware of people trying to take advantage of his success for personal gain.
In the second verse, Rich Brian contrasts his wealth and wise investments with those who only focus on material possessions and counterfeit lifestyles. He places emphasis on his ability to make smart decisions, such as buying property instead of chains. He mentions a female companion who is attracted to his success and lifestyle, but he is quick to assert his independence and prioritize his goals over romantic connections.
He references being from Jakarta, Indonesia, and makes a comparison to the Memphis flow, highlighting his global influence and unique perspective. He acknowledges the hate he receives on social media and dismisses it as jealousy or resistance to his progress. The line "flexin' all the time but I just know that you a bourgeoisie" implies that he recognizes and sees through individuals who pretend to be higher class or more successful than they actually are.
Overall, "Seventeen" presents Rich Brian as a confident and determined artist who has overcome obstacles and achieved success at a young age. The song showcases his journey while also addressing the challenges he faces, ultimately expressing resilience and a refusal to be affected by negativity.