They Want To Be You Lyrics – Lil Durk

They Want To Be You Lyrics Meaning

[Intro]
Future, also known as Pluto, is setting the tone for the song. He’s saying that people can speak their minds and say whatever they want. This could mean that he’s confident in who he is and doesn’t care about outside opinions.

[Chorus]
Future is talking about how people look up to successful street rappers like idols, wanting to live just like them. He describes the lifestyle—having money, women, and luxury fashion. He also mentions carrying a gun for protection, a common reality in street life. The line about “pill poppers” suggests that drug use is also part of this world. Overall, he’s highlighting how people admire and imitate the street life, sometimes blindly following the same path.

[Verse 1]
Future talks about his journey to success, making it clear that he had to struggle and work hard to earn his wealth. He emphasizes his determination, refusing to give up despite obstacles. “Canary diamonds” symbolize his success, as these yellow diamonds are extremely valuable. He also mentions his trust issues and how he’s mastered dealing with people. The reference to flying in a G6 jet represents his luxurious lifestyle, showing how far he’s come from his humble beginnings.

[Verse 2]
Lil Durk reflects on personal growth and the changes he had to make to succeed. He mentions the struggles of street life, where paternity disputes and financial hardships are common. He references King Von, a close friend, hinting at legal restrictions preventing them from meeting. Durk criticizes people who prioritize spending on women over helping their friends, showing the importance of loyalty. He also mentions the reality of paying scammers to handle business, a common hustle in his world. Betrayal is a big theme—he calls out snitches and reflects on how even his own family has hurt him. He relates to his mother’s pain, showing how personal experiences shape him. Pawning his uncle’s watch suggests financial struggles in the past. Finally, he advises rappers to stay quiet and move smart, as there’s always something at stake in this lifestyle.

[Chorus]
Future repeats the idea that people idolize and imitate street rappers. He describes the flashy lifestyle again—expensive clothes, money, and fame. But he also highlights how street life and rap often mirror each other. Durk’s rise to fame put his family in a better position, just as many others aim to do. The mention of “smashing exotics” shows indulgence in luxury, portraying the high life that people aspire to live like him.

[Outro]
Lil Durk wraps up the song by reinforcing the theme that many people, especially young ones, want to be like him. He also reflects on betrayal, acknowledging that his own family has hurt him in the same way others have. He recognizes that fame and the streets create similar paths, showing how the game works. The outro serves as a final statement on the reality of admiration and imitation in his world.