Chains & Whips Lyrics – Clipse

Chains & Whips Lyrics Meaning

[Chorus: Pusha T]
The chorus talks about how someone close, like an uncle, thinks the person is obsessed or “sick” because all they talk about is getting rich. It also shows a tough, almost aggressive attitude toward controlling power and relationships, using “chains and whips” as a metaphor for beating the system or controlling situations, even if it feels wrong or out of place culturally.

[Verse 1: Pusha T]
Here, Pusha T talks about people trying to avoid losing what they have, but they’re too focused on showing off flashy things like necklaces covered in enamel. He compares himself and others by saying while some buy smaller things, he buys whole collections, showing his bigger success. He explains how jealousy and misery make people act worse, and reality TV is like a mess of fake drama. Pusha warns people to watch out because he knows their weaknesses and can break them down easily. He notices how some try to stay important but their fame is fading. Even when everyone is around, the real problem is ignored. Some people try to do things they’re not good at, like chasing features outside their style. Fake diamonds and doubts block blessings. He says there’s no escape or peace for fake people, and by now they should understand what’s really going on.

[Chorus: Pusha T]
This part repeats the idea that the uncle thinks the person is obsessed with money, showing frustration with constantly hearing about riches. The tough phrases about choking and “icing” a girl emphasize control and dominance, all tied to beating the system with power and force.

[Verse 2: Malice]
Malice talks about how people’s luck is running out and their money is drying up like something fragile. He describes the end of good times as something almost beautiful because the weak fall away. He mentions a Bible verse to hint at spiritual struggles. People are dying or suffering, even those close to him. Some secrets are hidden, but others get discovered anyway. He reflects on tough times, feeling darker than before, comparing himself to a movie survivor who keeps pushing through cold, hard situations. Even though things are harsh, he still sends orders and keeps working hard despite the struggle.

[Chorus: Pusha T]
This chorus repeats again to remind how the obsession with getting rich drives people “sick,” and how tough and controlling actions are used to try to win against the system.

[Post-Chorus: Pharrell Williams & Kendrick Lamar]
This part talks about how even when things get dark and confusing, the person keeps trying to reach out or stay connected. But the voices or influences around them aren’t good — it’s not a good, pure message, but something dangerous or evil instead, making the person feel trapped or scared.

[Verse 3: Kendrick Lamar]
Kendrick starts by saying he’s not someone who just fits in with peaceful or fake vibes. He believes his talent is a gift from God, and he’s sending fake people away. He shares visions of hard times, violence, and lost dreams. He feels that real hip-hop has died again, but he keeps his focus and respect for old legends. He talks about betrayal by people he trusted, but he doesn’t let it stop him. Therapy helped him open up but also made him realize he doesn’t care what others think. He calls himself a mix of gentle and tough, balancing kindness and strength. Kendrick talks about taking over his space and pushing out fake or weak people. He uses strong imagery to show he’s powerful and won’t back down. He also mocks those who thought he couldn’t connect with younger fans, proving them wrong. He calls out fake talents and fake genetics, saying real ones will fall. He ends by saying God gave him light and free will, and he’s ready to fight hard when needed.

[Outro: Pharrell Williams]
The outro repeats the idea from the post-chorus that even when things get dark and confusing, and the person looks around trying to understand, the voice they hear isn’t good or holy — it’s a bad influence, like the Devil speaking, making everything feel dangerous.