Interpretation
The song 'Check' by
Kool Savas provides a critical examination of the current rap scene and presents his own position within that scene. It is a statement against the commercial orientation and superficiality that he sees in parts of the music industry.
In the first verse, Kool Savas talks about the extent to which some artists would sacrifice their integrity for popularity and success, with lines like 'For a few plays, your stars have to bend over'. He presents himself as an authentic rapper who would refuse to sacrifice his artistic integrity for commercial success ('Before I do a feature with you, I'd rather be broke again').
In the second verse, he talks about artists who try to become famous at the expense of others and neglect the quality of their music. With statements like 'Your music fits the discount code in your Instagram bio', he criticizes the way some artists use their music as a mere promotional tool for other products.
In the third verse, Kool Savas talks about the harsh reality and struggle he and other artists have gone through to find their place in the music industry. He talks about the struggles and difficulties he has faced ('Because of sadness, I punch my fist against the wall') and his determination to keep going despite all odds ('Today I run away from my fears, run, Forest, run').
The 'Check' choruses underline his position in the music industry, from the depths of the underground to the top ten, and emphasize his claim to preserve the authenticity of rap ('We are rap to the bone').
In the subsequent verses, various aspects of the rap scene and the lives of rappers are portrayed from his perspective, including the brutality of some lifestyles ('Reload the Gatling, cold soul, the rain is heavy'), the difficulties and challenges that come with success ('Even though achievements speak for themselves, there are ups and downs'), and the criticism of artists who care more about their image than their music ('Google 'son of a bitch' to then browse through your Instagram').
In summary, 'Check' is an expression of Kool Savas' authenticity and originality, and conveys his critique and discomfort with the current rap scene.