Song meaning of Red Bandana by Artie 5ive

The lyrics of the song "Red Bandana" by Artie 5ive convey a message of staying true to oneself, loyalty to one's crew, and the struggles faced while navigating life's challenges. The artist emphasizes the importance of remaining within their circle, which is depicted as a place of trust and support. The reference to a circus implies that those outside the circle may not understand or appreciate their way of life, but the artist remains focused on their own path.

The line "my son will already be a red bandana" suggests that the artist wants to pass on their values and mindset to the next generation. They see themselves as always being on the streets, like a never-ending obstacle course, symbolizing the constant challenges they face.

The lyrics also mention the accumulation of money, symbolized by a stack of bills resembling a lasagna. This suggests a desire for material success and financial stability, possibly as a means to provide for their loved ones and create a better life.

The artist mentions drinking lean, which is a highly addictive codeine-based cough syrup mixed with soda. This could allude to self-medicating to cope with the struggles and pressure of their environment.

There is a reminder of past mistakes, reflected in their mother's eyes. It conveys a sense of regret and a longing for redemption, along with an acknowledgment of the importance of family ties.

Overall, "Red Bandana" portrays the struggles and aspirations of the artist, highlighting themes of loyalty, self-expression, and striving for success in a challenging environment.