"On God": A Hypnotic Collaboration That Rewards Repeated Listens
"On God" stands out as a hazy introspection nestled within the otherwise energetic Pinball album. The track begins with a mellow, hypnotic synth line, setting the tone for a reflective journey fueled by a potent blend of trap drums.
Earl Sweatshirt's distinctive flow anchors the song, his characteristically dense and playful verses acting as both chorus and touchstone before MIKE steps in.
MIKE's Introspective Touch
MIKE's verse retains his signature lo-fi warmth, a wash of introspective lyrics that swirl effortlessly over the beat. His vulnerability contrasts beautifully with the preceding lyrical acrobatics from Earl, creating a depth that reveals layers on repeated listens. Then comes Tony Shhnow, the surprise shift in the sonic tapestry. His conversational delivery brings a touch of levity and swagger amidst the introspection, adding a playful yet thoughtful edge to the song's final moments.
Unexpected Chemistry and Dynamic Exploration
What makes "On God" truly shine is the chemistry between these three artists with notably different styles. It's an unexpected collaboration that works surprisingly well. The transitions between MIKE, Earl Sweatshirt, and Tony Shhnow create moments of both contrast and seamless flow, making the track a dynamic exploration of lyrical vulnerability and sonic experimentation. The simple but evocative production only enhances the experience, providing space for their words to reverberate.
A Reflective Counterpoint on Pinball
While "On God" might not be your instant favorite on Pinball, it's a grower – a track that rewards repeated listens and offers a uniquely reflective counterpoint to the album's more upbeat moments.
Listen to Mike & Tony Seltzer On God
MIKE On God Lyrics Meaning
The meaning of "On God" by MIKE and Tony Seltzer is a complex exploration of pain, ambition, and the vulnerability that binds them together. The song delves into several key themes...
Loss and Trauma: The song is deeply affected by loss, with the artists frequently mentioning friends who have passed away. This is particularly clear in Earl's chorus, where he references Uzi Vert's open struggles with grief.
Hustle and Perseverance: The rappers emphasize their hard work, relentless grind, and the financial rewards that come with it. However, this drive is fueled by the pain and trauma they've experienced.
Struggle and Self-Soothing: The song explores how substances are used to cope with pain and hardship. This coping mechanism is juxtaposed with the desire to better themselves through financial success.
Loyalty and Inner Circle: The artists heavily rely on their close circle of friends and family. In a world shaped by loss, these connections are the foundation they cling to.
Trust Issues: Tony Shhnow's verse is particularly focused on betrayal, distrust, and the loneliness that can come with success.
MIKE On God Lyrics Meaning
The rappers express these themes with striking honesty. There's a juxtaposition between the pride of achievement and the lingering emotional wounds. They rely heavily on the bonds of family and chosen friends – the anchors in a world marked by loss. Yet, even within this close circle, a sense of distrust lingers, a reminder of the hardship that shapes their present.
MIKE & Tony Seltzer On God Lyrics
[Intro]
I'ma be real here
Stop sellin' 'em phones that's wired to the Federal Government
That's what I'ma tell you
Okay, have a good day
Nah, fuck a good day, make it a bad day
A-yo, my outlaw niggas, twist these niggas
[Chorus: Earl Sweatshirt]
I'm in it first, my face on the wall
We stallin', they go berserk, I know it all
They throw sticks and stones and rocks but they never hurt
I'm so appalled, I feel like Uzi Vert, all of my friends in the dirt
Only with dog, my bro and my sister, we makin' it work
On God (On God)
[Verse 1: MIKE]
She know I'm odd, I'm always a problem
You know I'm on & off, hydraulic
I cannot talk, it's all in your pocket
I milly rock when I saw the deposit
Ain't off thе top but it's off the noggin
I'll do you wrong, my dawg can vouch
I'm not alone, I'm lost without you
Trust, I get coldеr along that route
Bounce the wood, I smoke about you
I never front, I be holdin' it down
You envy us when we comin' around
Easing that trauma, smoke in the shower
[?]------------------
I used to front, but I know it's the sour
I'm in that club, prolly blowin' a thou'
Ain't from New York, but I'll show you the town
I got some za and some drugs that's loud
Shoutout to Zaza, I'm pullin' around
I worked so hard, I'm enjoyin' it now, yeah
I been so nard, I go order a round
I heard that probably over the crowd, yeah
[Chorus: Earl Sweatshirt]
I'm in it first, my face on the wall
We stallin', they go berserk, I know it all
They throw sticks and stones and rocks but they never hurt
I'm so appalled, I feel like Uzi Vert, all of my friends in the dirt
Only with dog, my bro and my sister, we makin' it work
On God (On God)
[Verse 2: Tony Shhnow]
My trust fucked up, I was fucked up
She was for you, but now she fuck us
Diamonds hittin' like a disco ball and she goin' sho nuff
I smoke and sold dope, rollin' jokes up, feel the road rush
She gon' toe touch like a nail tech, I be hands on
Tony tryna stack a couple million dollars, put his mans on
Baby girl is tryna suck my jeans, I can keep the pants on
All my friends dead, feelings unsaid I expand on
[?] for days, I need halfway, we on homeboy
She gon do Chane'-ne', I'ma do the belt, Louis Vuitton
I'm pourin' Don Juan, Takeoff like a Migo, told her, ''I'm the one''
112 on the dash, bad month, I make bands just like Sean
You watchin' me cause I switch times zones
Your temp' get too hot, you get fired on
[Chorus: Earl Sweatshirt]
We stallin' and they go berserk, I know it all
They throw sticks and stones and rocks but they never hurt
I'm so appalled, I feel like Uzi Vert, all of my friends in the dirt
Only with dog, my bro and my sister, we makin' it work
On God (On God)