“This song is very personal to me: the beat, the rhymes, the way I was feeling that night when I wrote it. It was about my life and what I was going through at that moment in time. I wanted to let my fans or whoever else is listening to my song know all the bullsh*t, LET IT FLY. We gonna be alright, smile through that sh*t,” shares Xquaniti3 exclusively for Blue Rhymez Entertainment.
From Memphis, Tennessee, the introspective Hip Hop track What’s Done? showcases sophisticated songwriting with raw, honest lyrics exploring worldly conclusions and self-reflection. Over mellow keys and grungy production, the organic vocals convey a melancholic longing as the artist reflects on endearing characters like his own mother and equally disheartening fake supporters. A song that will resonate with audiences through its vulnerability. While the overall vibe is laidback, the substantial lyrics and nuanced lyrical details reveal an artist striving for depth and connection – satisfying listeners seeking substance in Hip Hop.
Man sh*t, all these people talking down on you/ Speaking on all the bad sh*t you did to them/ What about all the bad sh*t they did to you?/ Ight see, life is like a book/ It’s just waiting on you to change to the next chapter/ You feel me! – the low-pitch intro announces the undertones of both the music and the existential narrative Xquaniti3 decided to opt for this time.
The first verse instantly draws the listener into the pensive mindstate of the Hip Hop artist as he unpacks his inner demons and reflections on life: Terrorize the minds, conjuring my demons/ I’m going back and forth trying to fix my inner issues. Alluding to archetypal Hip Hop themes, Xquaniti3 paints a human-like picture of his city, Memphis, shouting it out while acknowledging the silent haters who lurk in the shadows when one starts winning: Nominated Rookie of the Year in 2020 Hip Hop Awards/ Memphis, you wasn’t cheering/ N***** tend to fall back in line when they see you winning/ I made us out to be appealing, you was stuck in feelings.
Delving deeper, Xquaniti3 gives us a glimpse into his supportive relationship with his mother and the immense influence she has had on his life journey. The raw emotions come through as he reminisces on past failed relationships, holding responsible former love interests, now merely ghosts of the past. With vivid storytelling and hard-hitting lyrics, the artist builds up the contemplative mood brick by brick in the first verse, inviting us into the vulnerable corners of his mind and lived experience.
His smooth flow simmers over the laidback beat, preparing us for the cathartic release that comes in the hook: Everybody put your motherf*cking glass in the sky/ All this bullsh*t you going through, dawg let it fly/ We gon’ ride til we die and if it’s smoke let em’ fry/ We ain’t even got the answers, only God knows why/ Do your thang n****/ Everybody got pain n****/ But everything don’t stay the same n****/ As long as you remain the same n****/ Don’t go insane n****.
The second verse of What’s Done? mirrors the introspective nature of the first, painting a vivid picture of Xquaniti3’s optimistic viewpoint and pride in his craft. His laid-back delivery, riding over the mellow instrumental, creates a conversational narrative that feels both intimate and grandiose. The artist’s perspective is clear: he cherishes the audible presence of his music in his surroundings, and he has no time for those who fail to vocally support his artistic endeavors: A trendsetter, a legend, yeah I’m optimist/ R for Romeo, it’s playing on your playlist/ Prime time shows, X made the Forbes list/ My records spinning in your area, you hear this danger sh*t/ I’m in your top five, bang to your f*cking head/ So out my face right hit and ya brain dead.
The production is nothing short of phenomenal. The beat, while laid-back, is meticulously arranged to create a perfect backdrop for Xquaniti3’s flow and bars. It’s a testament to the producer’s skill that the instrumental manages to be both unobtrusive and captivating, allowing Xquaniti3 to take the lead role without overshadowing his lyrical prowess.
The hook, repeated a second time after the second verse, strikes a chord for its emotional resonance. It’s a poignant refrain that sinks deep into the listener’s psyche, creating a lingering emotional impact that echoes long after the song concludes.
The brilliance of What’s Done is encapsulated in its perfect acoustic loop, which is achieved through the outro matching the energy of the intro. This circular structure brings the listener back to the beginning, reinforcing the song’s theme of resilience and originality.
In What’s Done? Xquaniti3 has made a bold statement about his commitment to authenticity in Hip Hop, positioning himself as a beacon of originality in a sea of monotony. The track is not just a song; it’s a testament to his artistic vision and an invitation to join him on his journey.
Song Credits: Keonta Johnson (Xquaniti3) – Artist, Songwriter; Cordarius Williams (Buck Nasty) – Sound Engineer; “BalloonzBeats” – Music Producer.
Make sure you add What’s Done? to your playlists on Amazon HERE, Apple Music HERE, Tidal HERE, Deezer HERE, YouTube Music HERE, and on Spotify below: