We Own It (Fast & Furious)

2 Chainz , Wiz Khalifa

An explosive hip-hop anthem with an intense, synthesized beat that embodies a feeling of triumphant determination and unwavering loyalty.

Song Information

Release Date January 1, 2013
Duration 03:47
Album B.O.A.T.S. II #METIME (Deluxe)
Language EN
Popularity 72/100

Song Meaning

"We Own It (Fast & Furious)" is a high-energy anthem that celebrates ambition, loyalty, and the relentless pursuit of success. The song's meaning is deeply intertwined with the themes of the Fast & Furious film franchise, particularly the concepts of family, resilience, and living life to the fullest in the face of adversity. Lyrically, it explores the idea of taking control of one's destiny and seizing the moment. The recurring phrase "This moment, we own it" encapsulates the core message of the song, which is about claiming ownership of one's achievements and experiences. The lyrics also emphasize the importance of loyalty and brotherhood, with lines like "And the same ones that I ride with, be the same ones that I die with," highlighting the 'ride or die' mentality that is central to the film series and to the artists' narrative in the song. The pursuit of financial success is presented as a primary motivation, but it's a success that is meant to be shared with one's chosen family.

Lyrics Analysis

The song is a powerful declaration of ambition, loyalty, and living life on one's own terms. It opens with the assertion that money is both the primary motivator and the main topic of conversation. The artists contrast a typical vacation with their 'paycation,' a clever term indicating that their work and success are so intertwined with their lifestyle that even their moments of leisure are profitable. This hustle is not just for personal gain but is deeply rooted in providing for their family; they've done whatever was necessary to get to where they are. The lyrics paint a picture of a life lived with a certain level of danger and awareness, symbolized by 'gunshots in the dark, one eye closed.' This suggests navigating a perilous environment with caution and experience. There's a sense of pride in their craft and passion, and a relentless drive to surpass any competition.

The chorus serves as the song's central creed, a defiant statement of fearlessness. The only fear acknowledged is the fear of not trying, of not seizing the opportunities presented. It’s a bold proclamation of self-determination, with the line 'Only God can judge me now' rejecting all other forms of judgment. Every moment is presented as a high-stakes gamble where everything is on the line. Even with the odds stacked against them, referencing the 'three strikes' rule, the commitment is to go all in. This is their moment, and they claim complete ownership of it.

The theme of loyalty is a cornerstone of the track. The same people they started with are the same people they are willing to face anything with, a 'ride or die' mentality that is unbreakable. Success is depicted through images of new cars and desirable partners, but this success is shared with their crew. They work hard daily for their 'dogs,' ensuring everyone in their circle benefits from their collective efforts. This sense of family and unwavering support is a recurring motif, emphasizing that they are a unit that stands together and never backs down. Their control over their destiny is so absolute that, metaphorically, their 'cars don't even lose control.' The track concludes by reinforcing this solidarity; a problem for one is a problem for all, a shared struggle that they will confront as a team. The journey from humble beginnings ('graduated from knives' to 'big guns') signifies their growth and increased power, and they remain committed to their plan and their people.

History of Creation

"We Own It (Fast & Furious)" was created specifically for the soundtrack of the 2013 film Fast & Furious 6. The song was written by Tauheed Epps (2 Chainz), Cameron Jibril Thomaz (Wiz Khalifa), Alex Schwartz, Joe Khajadourian, and Breyan Stanley Isaac. Production was handled by The Futuristics, a duo composed of Alex Schwartz and Joe Khajadourian. The song was released on May 17, 2013, as a single from the film's official soundtrack. It was also included as an international bonus track on 2 Chainz's second studio album, B.O.A.T.S. II: Me Time. The track was designed to capture the high-octane energy and thematic depth of the film, focusing on loyalty, ambition, and determination. The collaboration between 2 Chainz and Wiz Khalifa brought together two prominent figures in hip-hop, each with a distinct style that blended to create a powerful and memorable anthem.

Symbolism and Metaphors

The lyrics of "We Own It" are rich with symbolism and metaphors that enhance its themes of success, risk, and loyalty.

  • "Gunshots in the dark, one eye closed": This metaphor illustrates the inherent risks and dangers of the path to success. It suggests moving forward with a degree of caution but also with the acceptance of the unknown.
  • "We got big guns, been graduated from knives": This line metaphorically signifies growth and advancement. It's not necessarily about literal weapons but about moving from smaller-scale hustles and challenges to more significant and serious endeavors.
  • "Even if I got three strikes, I'ma go for it": This is a direct reference to the 'three-strikes law' in the American justice system. Metaphorically, it represents facing insurmountable odds or the possibility of ultimate failure but choosing to take the risk anyway, embodying a spirit of defiance and determination.
  • "Our cars don't even lose control": This serves as a powerful metaphor for maintaining control over their lives and destinies, even when moving at a fast and potentially dangerous pace. It ties directly into the car-centric themes of the Fast & Furious franchise.
  • "Paid-cation": A clever portmanteau of "paid" and "vacation," this term symbolizes a lifestyle where work and success are so integrated that even relaxation is a profitable endeavor.

Emotional Background

The predominant emotional tone of "We Own It" is one of triumphant defiance and unshakeable confidence. The song creates an atmosphere of high-energy excitement and motivation. This is achieved through the combination of a driving, synthesized beat, and the assertive vocal deliveries of 2 Chainz and Wiz Khalifa. The lyrics contribute to this emotional landscape by focusing on themes of overcoming obstacles, achieving success, and unwavering loyalty. There's a sense of invincibility in the chorus, with the declaration of only fearing a lack of effort. While there are acknowledgments of danger and struggle, the overall feeling is positive and empowering. The song is designed to inspire a sense of determination and resilience in the listener, making it a perfect anthem for facing challenges and celebrating victories.

Cultural Influence

"We Own It (Fast & Furious)" achieved significant cultural influence, largely due to its association with the immensely popular Fast & Furious 6 movie. The song became an anthem for the film and is one of the most iconic tracks from the entire franchise's soundtrack. It experienced considerable chart success, reaching number six on the UK Singles Chart and number 16 on the US Billboard Hot 100. The single was certified 3x platinum in the United States. Beyond the charts, the song's motivational and high-energy nature led to its use in other media. It was featured as the official theme for the WWE's Royal Rumble 2014 event and was also used in an episode of the popular television show Parks and Recreation. The song is frequently used in workout playlists and sports highlights, solidifying its status as a go-to anthem for moments of triumph and determination.

Rhyme and Rhythm

The rhyme scheme in "We Own It" is characteristic of many hip-hop songs, featuring a mix of perfect and slant rhymes, often in AABB or similar simple patterns within verses to maintain a strong, driving flow. The rappers also utilize internal rhymes to add complexity and lyrical density. The rhythm is a key component of the song's high-energy feel. The tempo is upbeat, creating a sense of urgency and excitement. The lyrical delivery from both 2 Chainz and Wiz Khalifa plays with the beat, sometimes riding it directly and at other times using a more syncopated flow to create rhythmic tension and release. The chorus has a particularly strong, anthemic rhythm that makes it memorable and easy to chant along to. The interplay between the driving beat and the rappers' vocal rhythms contributes significantly to the song's motivational and powerful atmosphere. The overall structure is typical of a rap song, with verses, a recurring chorus, and a bridge, all building to a powerful climax.

Stylistic Techniques

"We Own It" employs a range of stylistic techniques to create its energetic and motivational tone. The song's production, handled by The Futuristics, features a high-energy beat with fast drums and synthesizers that create an intense, cinematic vibe perfectly suited for the Fast & Furious franchise. Both 2 Chainz and Wiz Khalifa deliver their verses with confidence and enthusiasm. 2 Chainz is known for his signature trap beats and charismatic, often boastful, delivery, while Wiz Khalifa brings a more melodic flow to the track. Lyrically, the song uses clever wordplay, such as the term "paid-cation," which combines "paid" and "vacation" to describe a life of continuous earning. The lyrics are also filled with vivid imagery that illustrates the themes of risk and reward. The narrative voice is one of unwavering confidence and self-assurance. The use of ad-libs and the back-and-forth between the two artists create a dynamic and engaging listening experience.

Emotions

triumph excitement hope

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meaning behind the song 'We Own It'?

The song 'We Own It' by 2 Chainz and Wiz Khalifa is an anthem about ambition, loyalty, and taking control of one's destiny. Featured in 'Fast & Furious 6', it reflects the movie's themes of family, resilience, and living life to the fullest, encapsulated by the recurring line 'This moment, we own it'.

When was 'We Own It (Fast & Furious)' released?

The song was officially released as a single from the 'Fast & Furious 6' soundtrack on May 17, 2013. It was produced by The Futuristics and written by 2 Chainz, Wiz Khalifa, Alex Schwartz, Joe Khajadourian, and Breyan Stanley Isaac.

What does the lyric 'Even if I got three strikes, I'ma go for it' mean?

This lyric is a metaphor for facing extreme adversity. The 'three strikes' rule is a legal term for a statute that can lead to a life sentence. In the song, it symbolizes being up against impossible odds but still choosing to persevere and take the risk, highlighting a defiant and determined spirit.

Who produced the song 'We Own It'?

The song was produced by the American production duo The Futuristics, which consists of Alex Schwartz and Joe Khajadourian. They are credited with creating the track's signature high-energy, synthesized beat.

What is the genre of 'We Own It (Fast & Furious)'?

The song is primarily categorized as hip-hop and rap. Its energetic and cinematic production also firmly places it within the soundtrack genre.

What is the cultural impact of 'We Own It'?

The song had a significant cultural impact, largely due to its feature in 'Fast & Furious 6.' It became a global hit, used as a theme for WWE's Royal Rumble 2014, and featured in TV shows like 'Parks and Recreation.' It remains a popular motivational anthem.

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