GBP Song Lyrics Meaning
Before exploring the meaning of English song “GBP” by “Central Cee & 21 Savage”, it’s important to understand the creative background that shaped it. Written by “Central Cee & 21 Savage” and produced by “Pontus Persson, LIOHN, Gino Nano, Eight8, Harry Beech & Jonny Leslie”, the song reflects their signature blend of “Rap”, infused with themes of street life, loyalty, and survival, juxtaposed with reflections on wealth, power, and cultural identity. It delves into the gritty realities of urban environments while showcasing pride in a distinct “London style.” This song was released on January 16, 2025, as part of the album “CAN’T RUSH GREATNESS”.
As its core, The song “GBP” lyrics explore themes of street life, power, loyalty, and ambition, blending gritty realism with cultural references. The artist reflects on life in the UK, drawing parallels between street culture in London and global scenarios, showcasing how upbringing and environment shape one’s identity and choices. References to weapons, gang dynamics, and survival strategies highlight a life shaped by struggle and defiance. The artist contrasts his lack of generational wealth with his current financial success, emphasizing the importance of securing a future for his offspring while navigating the challenges of a harsh environment.
The chorus underscores the potential violence and risk that come with this lifestyle, linking it to the UK’s distinct cultural and stylistic elements. The mention of Air Max shoes and track suits symbolizes a specific aesthetic tied to UK street culture, while the lyrics discuss personal accountability and the consequences of actions. The artist conveys a sense of pride in his roots, acknowledging the struggles that shaped him. He reflects on the price of loyalty and revenge, with references to hiring hits and the risks associated with confronting rivals.
In the first verse, the artist imagines how he might have adapted if he were in different locations or historical periods, emphasizing his adaptability and resilience. He envisions himself thriving in various tough environments, such as Harlem or Oakland, and compares his struggles to those faced by historical figures. This paints a picture of someone who is both a product of their circumstances and an individual capable of transcending them. The reference to breaking the law as a means to escape poverty underscores the desperation and resourcefulness of his upbringing.
The second verse delves deeper into personal experiences and challenges, addressing themes of betrayal, drug use, and emotional struggles. The artist discusses the importance of loyalty, highlighting the support of close friends and his disdain for those who break trust. He mentions his ambitions, such as securing a deal with Nike, and critiques superficial relationships, expressing a preference for genuine connections. The artist also acknowledges the dualities in his life, navigating between success and the lingering influence of his past. He presents himself as a figure of power, unafraid to confront adversaries and unyielding in his pursuit of respect and stability.
The song frequently contrasts the UK’s culture with global contexts, emphasizing the unique identity of UK street life while acknowledging its similarities to other urban environments. The artist portrays himself as someone deeply rooted in his culture yet universally relatable. The recurring mention of GBP and USD highlights the intersection of local and global perspectives, blending pride in his heritage with aspirations that transcend borders.
The lyrics also explore the performative aspect of modern life, particularly in the context of social media. The artist warns against careless words online, emphasizing the real-world consequences of virtual actions. This commentary reflects the growing influence of digital spaces in shaping reputations and conflicts, tying traditional notions of street credibility to contemporary platforms.
Overall, the song captures the complexities of navigating a challenging environment, balancing ambition with loyalty, and reflecting on personal growth while remaining connected to one’s roots. Through vivid imagery and cultural references, the artist paints a picture of resilience, adaptability, and the drive to succeed despite adversity. The lyrics serve as a testament to the strength required to thrive in such circumstances, blending gritty realism with aspirational undertones.
GBP Lyrics
[Intro]
Yo, come on, Mitch, you know I gotta go!
Bring yo’ motherf*ckin’ as*
[Chorus]
If it weren’t the UK, would’ve had a AK-47 with a hundred rounds
Red carpet in my trackie and Air Max, they want a boy with a London style
We ain’t got generational wealth, got a couple of mill’ for my unborn child
If I pay man a hundred thousand pounds, I could get man bun right in front of a crowd, uh
That’s GBP, the price go up if it’s USD
Better watch your words, I’ll get you X’d ’bout the shit you tweet (On God)
I told lil’ bro if it’s personal, he better jump out and do it on feet
We got somethin’ in common with scuba divers, why? ‘Cause the guys in deep
[Verse 1]
If it was in the UK, where they had an AK, gang outside with a samurai sword
Nike Tech fleece with the Air Force 1, my ski mask on, but we don’t snowboard
Go on a glide, leave your phone at home, what’s wrong with these guys? They go and record
Sold a stroke, we was broke as hell, well, until we broke the law
If I lived in Harlem, I would’ve been Mitch, them man would’ve been like Ace and snitched
If it was Oakland, I would’ve been a pimp
If it was 1930 North Carolina, I would’ve been Frank with the mink
If the opps got nominated for the BRITs, would’ve went to the ceremony with sticks
And a G-17 with a cane with a switch
[Chorus]
If it weren’t the UK, would’ve had a AK-47 with a hundred rounds
Red carpet in my trackie and Air Max, they want a boy with a London style
We ain’t got generational wealth, got a couple of mill’ for my unborn child
If I pay man a hundred thousand pounds, I could get man bun right in front of a crowd, uh (P*ssy)
That’s GBP, the price go up if it’s USD (21)
Better watch your words, I’ll get you X’d ’bout the shit you tweet (On God)
I told lil’ bro if it’s personal, he better jump out and do it on feet (21)
We got somethin’ in common with scuba divers, why? ‘Cause the guys in deep
[Verse 2]
Latex gloves, I’m on the drill, watch ’em fall, Jack and Jill
Up on the opps, seven to nil, Premier League, I’m in the field
Two things that you’ll never see is me run from an opp or a b!tch in my wheel
Got day ones and I’m with ’em still, fighting demons, swallowin’ pills
I still wanna deal with Nike (On God)
I can’t get caught on no ring, so I’m inside out in the sheisty (Straight up)
We go through the front door, ’cause they gon’ tell when that back door shit get spicy (Racks)
Internet beef, if I catch you in traffic, the f*ck you gon’ do, n!gga, type me? (P*ssy)
I put this on God, I hit the b!tch once, she already tryna be wifey (Damn)
I’m from the street and I got opps, I don’t got time to go sightseein’ (Gang)
Wake me up with head, put this in your purse and shut the f*ck up if you like me (21)
I fill up your closet with Birkins, buy you a wagon and make sure you icy (Alright)
[Chorus]
Alright, If it weren’t the UK, would’ve had an AK-47 with a hundred rounds
Red carpet in my trackie and Air Max, they want a boy with a London style
We ain’t got generational wealth, got a couple of mill’ for my unborn child
If I pay man a hundred thousand pounds, I could get man bun right in front of a crowd, uh (P*ssy)
That’s GBP, the price go up if it’s USD (21)
Better watch your words, I’ll get you X’d ’bout the shit you tweet (On God)
I told lil’ bro if it’s personal, he better jump out and do it on feet (21)
We got somethin’ in common with scuba divers, why? ‘Cause the guys in deep
CAN’T RUSH GREATNESS – Central Cee (Tracklist)
1. No Introduction
2. 5 Star
3. Gata
4. St Patrick’s
5. GBP
6. Top Freestyle
7. Up North
8. CRG
9. Limitless
10. Now We’re Strangers
11. Truth In The Lies
12. Ten
13. BAND4BAND
14. Gen Z Luv
15. Walk In Wardrobe
16. Must Be
17. Don’t Know Anymore