Paper Soldier

Brent Faiyaz's 'Paper Soldier' is a track that delves into the themes of success, materialism, and the emotional detachment that can come with fame. The lyrics paint a picture of a man who has risen from a more humble beginning to a life of wealth and ubiquity. Faiyaz repeats the line 'I bet you wish that I was still right there,' suggesting a past relationship or life that someone wishes he would return to. However, his current lifestyle, filled with 'bitches everywhere' and the status of being 'so debonair' and a 'millionaire,' indicates a significant transformation from his past.

The song's chorus emphasizes Faiyaz's nonchalance towards his past and the people who may have been a part of it. His repeated assertion 'I act like I don't care, that's 'cause I don't care' serves as a mantra of emotional detachment, which could be a defense mechanism against the pitfalls of fame or a genuine lack of interest in revisiting his former life. The lyrics also touch on themes of hedonism and the pursuit of pleasure, as seen in lines like 'She's tryna make love, I'm tryna make movies' and 'I love all my hoes, I love money better.' These lines suggest a prioritization of personal gratification and financial gain over emotional connections.

Despite the bravado, there are moments in the song that hint at a deeper reflection. Faiyaz mentions his mother, his disdain for the authorities, and a deceased friend, indicating that beneath the surface of his success, there are still personal values and losses that affect him. The voicemail outro adds a layer of realism to the song, with a fan expressing dissatisfaction with Faiyaz's recent work and demanding more. This outro serves as a reminder of the pressures and expectations that come with being in the public eye, and perhaps the reason behind the artist's emotional armor.