Acts 1.5 Lyrics – Saba, No ID

Acts 1.5 Lyrics Meaning

Saba starts the verse by painting a picture of his confidence and style. He mentions Junya Watanabe, a famous Japanese designer, to show that his flow is as high-quality and unique as luxury fashion. He’s making it clear that his rap skills can outshine anyone. He also talks about how he’s well-prepared for the lifestyle of a superstar, knowing that he needs to grab and hold the audience’s attention. However, he acknowledges that he has been overlooked in the industry, not getting the recognition he deserves. Despite that, he stays persistent, stepping up like a baseball player at a big event, ready to make an impact. He connects this idea to high fashion, high art, and deep conversations, meaning his music isn’t just entertainment—it has substance and creativity.

Saba then points out that people should take notes when he speaks because he’s about to say something important. He acknowledges that some people may have lost interest when he took a stand for what he deserved, possibly referring to moments when he prioritized his worth over popularity. He boasts about his track record, saying he’s been so consistent that if he ever loses, it would be shocking. But he quickly dismisses that possibility, claiming every verse he writes is a classic. He aims for his music to be everywhere, even on Madison Avenue buses, which represent commercial success. Calling himself the “Blue Line ambassador” references Chicago’s train system, showing his roots and connection to his hometown. He jokes that he could’ve said “green line” but avoids it because that train line is dangerous, subtly nodding to the realities of life in certain areas of Chicago.

He continues by asserting his dominance in rap, saying no one can outdo him, and it’s almost laughable to suggest otherwise. He thinks about calling out other rappers online but decides against it because there are too many to name. Still, he makes it clear that he’s better than many artists, even those considered people’s favorites. He gives props to No ID, the producer of the beat, calling him the greatest of all time (G.O.A.T). Then, he criticizes how hype often dictates success in the music industry, suggesting that awards like the Grammys sometimes go to undeserving artists.

Saba reaffirms that he belongs in the rap game and shouldn’t be underestimated. He compares himself to Michael Jordan, implying that being compared to lesser rappers is ridiculous, like comparing Jordan to an average NBA player. He reminds people he’s always backed by his crew, Pivot Gang, and warns artists about bad record deals, comparing them to student loans—essentially saying some rappers get locked into bad contracts when they could’ve found a better way.

The verse gets even more aggressive as he compares himself to historical and sports figures. He calls himself “Al Capone fresh out the womb,” meaning he was born ready to take over the game. He also compares his impact on rap to Mike Tyson’s power in boxing, saying he’s about to destroy the beat. He declares that no one can stop him except Jesus, reinforcing his confidence. Then, he describes his worldview—his belief in a Black God, references to climate change, and even a nod to LeBron James returning to his hometown. This last part connects to his own journey, as he reflects on going back to his roots in Chicago.

He ends by painting a vivid picture of the struggles in his city, where people might rob you in broad daylight. However, he makes it clear that he operates from love, not fear. He throws in a playful Buzz Lightyear reference, saying he “wishes someone would” challenge him. He acknowledges his growing success, likening it to IKEA furniture—carefully built step by step. Finally, he reassures the listener that he’s going to tell his story honestly because he’s not afraid of anything.