Benediction (feat. Rick Ross)

August Alsina's 'Benediction' featuring Rick Ross is a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity and finding redemption. The song begins with Alsina reflecting on his past life in the streets, where he witnessed addiction and death. The 'collection from the fiends' suggests a background of dealing with drugs and the harsh realities that come with it. Alsina's 'testimony' is his personal story of struggle and survival, shared with the listener as a form of catharsis and connection.

The chorus of the song uses religious imagery, likening the end of his past life to a funeral service, with the 'benediction' symbolizing a final blessing and a hopeful transition to a better life. Alsina speaks of the hardships he faced, including the temptation to give up when dreams seemed unattainable. However, he emphasizes his resilience, stating that the challenges 'made me stronger.' This message of perseverance is a central theme of the song, as Alsina encourages listeners to find strength in their struggles.

Rick Ross's verse adds another layer to the song, as he reflects on his own path to success and the sacrifices made along the way. He acknowledges the pain of losing friends to violence and the impact of drug addiction on families. Ross also expresses gratitude for his success and the lessons learned from his experiences. The song ends on a note of hope and determination, with both artists having transformed their difficult pasts into a source of motivation and a platform to inspire others.