one of wun

Gunna

A fluid, confident trap anthem celebrating unique success and lavish living, woven with a smooth, almost hypnotic flow.

Song Information

Release Date May 10, 2024
Duration 02:24
Album One of Wun
Language EN
Popularity 84/100

Song Meaning

Gunna's "one of wun" is a powerful anthem of self-proclamation and a celebration of individuality, success, and resilience. The title itself, a stylized spelling of "one of one," encapsulates the core message of the song: Gunna sees himself as a unique entity, unparalleled in the rap game and in life. This theme is woven throughout the lyrics, as he repeatedly emphasizes his distinctiveness and unparalleled status. The song is a declaration of his triumph over adversity and a direct response to those who have doubted him or wished for his downfall. He confidently states, "Heard all about how they want me to lose, but I'm W, due for a win," signifying his determination to succeed against all odds.

The lyrical content is steeped in the traditional themes of hip-hop braggadocio, focusing on wealth, luxury, and sexual prowess. Gunna vividly depicts a lavish lifestyle, from high-end cars and designer clothes to extravagant trips and casual relationships. However, these material possessions are not merely for show; they are presented as the spoils of his hard work and a tangible representation of his success. The song also touches on his journey from more humble beginnings to his current status, highlighting a narrative of perseverance and self-belief.

Ultimately, "one of wun" is a song about self-assurance and empowerment. It's a confident and celebratory track that aims to inspire listeners to embrace their own uniqueness and strive for success, regardless of the obstacles they may face. The mood is one of triumph and defiance, as Gunna solidifies his position in the hip-hop world and asserts his irreplaceability.

Lyrics Analysis

The song opens with a declaration of uniqueness and high standards, both in the women he associates with and in his own singular identity, stating he is "one of wun." This theme of exceptionalism is immediately tied to his financial success, as he describes accumulating wealth with the same dedication as a hustler. The imagery of driving a high-end convertible with a rear engine audibly roaring serves as a testament to his luxurious lifestyle. He acknowledges the negativity and desire from others to see him fail but confidently asserts that he is destined for a win.

The first verse delves into a hedonistic and opulent world. He describes a casual, almost decadent, encounter with a woman, highlighting his nonchalant attitude towards sex. The lyrics paint a picture of a life lived on the edge, aware of the dangers but undeterred. He reflects on his journey, from stashing money in a shoebox as a youth to becoming a millionaire in 2018, defying the expectations of those who thought he wouldn't survive. This reflection is tinged with a sense of coldness, both emotionally and physically, which he attributes to his experiences. His interactions with women are portrayed as purely physical, focusing on sexual dominance. The verse continues with boasts about his high fashion sense, mentioning his appearance at the Met Gala and the ability to turn his style into a profitable venture. He sees his success as a form of art and power, treating his rivals like pets and engaging in casual sexual relationships where he is seen as a prize.

The chorus repeats, reinforcing the central theme of being unparalleled and victorious in the face of opposition. It acts as a powerful refrain, cementing his status and the lifestyle that comes with it.

The second verse expands on his exclusive status. He speaks of having a "one of wun Mansory kit" for his car, a symbol of bespoke luxury. His circle is filled with beautiful women, and he is generous to those who provide good service. He emphasizes his readiness for action and his elevated status, moving between different locations for his trysts. A woman he is with starts calling him "Him," a nod to his supreme confidence and the power he exudes. He describes his life as high-stakes and high-reward, casually mentioning flying to Dubai and the custom details of his car. His arrivals are unexpected and impactful, like a surprise. The song concludes with a final repetition of the chorus, driving home the message of his unique identity, wealth, and inevitable triumph over adversity.

History of Creation

"One of Wun" is the title track from Gunna's fifth studio album of the same name, released on May 10, 2024. The album was released under YSL Records and 300 Entertainment. The song was produced by Que, Byrd, and Kenny Stuntin. The album serves as a follow-up to his 2023 project, "A Gift & a Curse," and was recorded between 2023 and 2024. The album's creation comes after a period of significant personal and legal challenges for Gunna, including his arrest in the YSL RICO case. Many critics and fans have interpreted the album, and this song in particular, as a response to the backlash and accusations he faced. The album features a limited number of guest appearances, which some reviewers have noted as a deliberate choice to emphasize a theme of isolation and self-reliance. The album cover art was created by Los Angeles-based painter Calvin Clausell Jr., continuing Gunna's trend of collaborating with visual artists for his album covers. The release of the album was highly anticipated, and it debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200 chart.

Symbolism and Metaphors

Gunna's "one of wun" employs several symbols and metaphors to enrich its themes of uniqueness, luxury, and success. The most prominent is the title itself, which acts as a central motif. Being "one of wun" symbolizes his unparalleled status and individuality in a crowded field.

The phrase "getting the cake and the butter" is a metaphor for achieving comprehensive financial success, not just the primary wealth (the cake) but also the additional luxuries and comforts (the butter). The repeated imagery of high-end, customized cars, such as a drop-top coupe with the engine in the trunk and a "one-of-wun Mansory kit," serves as a powerful symbol of his extravagant and unique lifestyle. These aren't just vehicles; they are extensions of his personality and success.

Gunna also uses fashion as a symbol of his status, boasting about being the "best dressed at the Met." This isn't just about expensive clothing but about a level of taste and influence that sets him apart. The reference to turning his "drip to a flex" further illustrates how he has monetized his personal style, turning it into a form of power and income.

Finally, the lyric "Heard all about how they want me to lose, but I'm W, due for a win" uses the initial "W" as a clever double entendre, representing both a win and his nickname, "Wunna." This line metaphorically casts his journey as a battle against detractors, a battle he is confident he will win.

Emotional Background

The predominant emotional tone of "one of wun" is one of confidence and celebration. The song exudes a sense of triumph and self-assurance, with Gunna unapologetically flaunting his success and unique identity. This confident mood is established through his assertive vocal delivery, the braggadocious nature of the lyrics, and the smooth, yet powerful, trap beat. There's a palpable sense of empowerment as he declares himself "one of wun," positioning himself as an exceptional figure in the music industry.

Beneath the surface of celebration, there is also a current of defiance. The lyrics that address his critics and those who wish for his failure introduce a slightly more aggressive and determined emotional layer. Lines like "Heard all about how they want me to lose, but I'm W, due for a win" carry a defiant tone, suggesting a motivation fueled by the desire to prove his doubters wrong.

While the overall atmosphere is positive and upbeat, there are fleeting moments that hint at a more complex emotional landscape. For instance, the line "Heart getting cold, my body cold, I took a lil' X" suggests a degree of emotional numbness or detachment, possibly as a coping mechanism for the pressures of fame and his past struggles. However, these moments are brief, and the overarching emotional background remains one of triumphant self-actualization.

Cultural Influence

"One of Wun," as the title track of Gunna's fifth studio album, has had a notable cultural impact since its release. The album debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200 chart, with 91,000 album-equivalent units, making it Gunna's sixth top-10 album in the US. The song itself also performed well, charting on the Billboard Hot 100 and other international charts. This commercial success solidified Gunna's position as a consistent hitmaker in the contemporary hip-hop scene.

The song and the album were released following a period of intense public scrutiny for Gunna related to the YSL RICO case. As a result, the project was seen by many as a comeback and a defiant statement against his critics. The album's themes of resilience and self-assertion resonated with his fanbase and sparked numerous discussions online about loyalty, the justice system, and the nature of the music industry.

Critically, the reception to "One of Wun" was mixed, with some critics praising Gunna's technical skill and signature melodic flow, while others felt he was treading familiar creative ground. Regardless of the mixed reviews, the album and its title track have been praised for their polished production and a sound that is quintessentially Gunna, often described as "yacht-trap" or "vibe music." The album's artwork, a collaboration with painter Calvin Clausell Jr., also garnered attention, highlighting Gunna's continued appreciation for and integration of fine art into his musical projects.

Rhyme and Rhythm

"One of Wun" features a fluid and continuous rhyme scheme that is characteristic of Gunna's style, often prioritizing flow and cadence over strict, traditional rhyme patterns. The song is largely delivered in a conversational, free-verse style, but with consistent use of end rhymes to create a cohesive structure. For example, in the chorus, we see rhymes like "tens," "again," and "all-in," followed by "hear it" and "win." While not a perfect AABB scheme, the rhyming words provide a sense of resolution at the end of the lines.

The rhythmic structure of the song is rooted in a mid-tempo trap beat. The tempo is even-keeled and easy to vibe to, providing a solid foundation for Gunna's vocal delivery. A key aspect of the song's appeal is the interplay between the lyrical rhythm and the musical rhythm. Gunna's flow is notably versatile; he often switches up his cadence, sometimes delivering rapid-fire lines and at other times adopting a more relaxed, melodic pace. This rhythmic variation adds energy and dynamism to the track, preventing it from becoming monotonous. The use of ad-libs also contributes to the rhythmic texture of the song, filling in spaces and adding emphasis to certain words and phrases.

Stylistic Techniques

Gunna's "one of wun" showcases his signature melodic and fluid rapping style, a key characteristic of the Atlanta trap scene. His vocal delivery is often described as smooth and effortless, allowing him to glide over the beat. The production, handled by Que, Byrd, and Kenny Stuntin, features a wavy, minimalist trap beat with a prominent bassline, creating a laid-back yet confident atmosphere. The beat is designed to be unobtrusive, allowing Gunna's vocal performance and intricate flows to be the main focus.

Lyrically, the song is built on braggadocio and assertive declarations. Gunna employs a confident and direct narrative voice, speaking from a perspective of achieved success. He uses vivid imagery to paint a picture of his luxurious lifestyle, referencing high-end brands like Mansory and alluding to exclusive events like the Met Gala. Repetition is a key structural element, particularly in the chorus, which reinforces the song's central theme of being "one of wun." This repetition makes the song catchy and memorable.

Gunna also plays with language through clever wordplay. For instance, the line "but I'm W, due for a win" is a notable example of a pun, using his nickname "Wunna" to also signify a victory. The song's structure follows a conventional verse-chorus format, which is typical for the genre and contributes to its accessibility and replay value.

Emotions

triumph excitement hope joy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meaning behind Gunna's song 'one of wun'?

The song 'one of wun' is a celebration of individuality and success. The title is a stylized spelling of 'one of one,' and the lyrics emphasize Gunna's uniqueness and resilience in the face of adversity. It's a confident anthem about his lavish lifestyle and his determination to win despite his detractors.

When was Gunna's 'one of wun' released?

The song 'one of wun' was released on May 10, 2024, as the title track from his fifth studio album of the same name.

Who produced the song 'one of wun' by Gunna?

The track 'one of wun' was produced by the production team of Que, Byrd, and Kenny Stuntin.

What does the lyric 'I'm W, due for a win' mean in 'one of wun'?

This lyric is a clever play on words. 'W' is a reference to Gunna's nickname, 'Wunna,' and it also stands for 'win.' The line signifies his confidence that despite people wanting him to fail, he is destined for success.

What genre is Gunna's song 'one of wun'?

'One of wun' is primarily a hip-hop song that fits within the trap subgenre. It is also often categorized as Atlanta hip-hop, reflecting Gunna's origins and signature sound.

How did the album 'One of Wun' perform on the charts?

The album 'One of Wun' was a commercial success, debuting at number two on the US Billboard 200 chart. This marked Gunna's sixth album to reach the top 10 in the United States.

Are there any guest features on the album 'One of Wun'?

Yes, the album 'One of Wun' features guest appearances from several artists, including Offset, Normani, Leon Bridges, and Roddy Ricch.

Who created the album cover for 'One of Wun'?

The artwork for the album 'One of Wun' was created by the Los Angeles-based painter Calvin Clausell Jr. This collaboration continues Gunna's practice of incorporating fine art into his album aesthetics.

More songs by Gunna

  • A melodic trap anthem radiating confidence and camaraderie, painting a vivid picture of loyalty and lavish lifestyles.
  • A silky, spaced-out trap anthem where hypnotic beats and boastful flows paint a vivid picture of a lavish and otherworldly lifestyle.
  • A confident and slick trap anthem, embodying a mood of defiant self-assurance through its hypnotic, laid-back flow and opulent imagery.
  • Hypnotic trap beats with a wild-west guitar loop create a confident, boastful anthem about overwhelming style and success.
  • A smooth, atmospheric trap anthem where confident boasts of luxury and success flow over a relaxed, water-like beat, creating an image of effortlessly...