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Leontina Heidgerken

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Aug 3, 2024, 10:42:06 PM8/3/24

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How Kanye West's "Hold My Liquor" Became a Cult Classic

Kanye West is known for his experimental and genre-bending music, but one of his most underrated songs is "Hold My Liquor", a track from his sixth studio album Yeezus (2013). The song features vocals from rapper Chief Keef and singer-songwriter Justin Vernon of Bon Iver, who create a contrast between the raw and the refined, the street and the indie. The song is a house ballad that blends industrial sounds, pulsating synths, and a guitar solo by Mike Dean, one of West's longtime collaborators.

The song explores themes of substance abuse, self-destruction, and failed relationships, as West portrays a character who stumbles into his ex-girlfriend's home for reckless sex. He admits that he can't handle his liquor and that he has a problem with his self-image. He also expresses his resentment towards his ex, who he accuses of being unfaithful and manipulative. The song is a confessional and cathartic piece that showcases West's vulnerability and honesty.

"Hold My Liquor" received critical acclaim from music critics, who praised its production, West's verse, Dean's guitar solo, and the performances of Vernon and Chief Keef. Some critics considered it one of the best songs of 2013 and one of West's most underrated tracks. The song also gained a cult following among fans, who appreciated its emotional depth and complexity. Despite not being released as a single, the song charted on Billboard's Bubbling Under Hot 100 and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs charts.

"Hold My Liquor" is a testament to West's artistic vision and innovation, as he created a song that defies conventional expectations and genres. It is also a reflection of his personal struggles and demons, as he bared his soul on a track that is both haunting and captivating.

The song's instrumental has been praised for its complexity and creativity, as it combines elements of house, industrial, and rock music. The song begins with a distorted sample of Vernon's voice, singing "I can hold my liquor / But this man can't handle me". The sample is looped and layered over a synth beat that gradually builds up in intensity. The beat is then interrupted by a metallic stab that signals the entrance of Chief Keef's hook, which consists of him repeating "I can't handle no liquor / But these bitches can't handle me". The hook is followed by West's verse, which is delivered in a slurred and erratic flow. West raps about his self-destructive behavior and his relationship with his ex-girlfriend, using metaphors and references to alcohol, drugs, and cars. The verse ends with West saying "One more hit and I can own ya / One more fuck and I can own ya", implying that he is addicted to both sex and substances. The verse is then followed by another metallic stab and a guitar solo by Dean, which adds a rock element to the song. The solo is accompanied by Vernon's vocals, which are distorted and pitch-shifted to create a haunting effect. The song then fades out with the synth beat and Vernon's sample.

The song has been interpreted in different ways by critics and fans, who have analyzed its lyrics, production, and context. Some critics have seen the song as a representation of West's inner turmoil and conflict, as he struggles with his addiction, fame, and ego. They have also noted the contrast between the two guest vocalists, who represent different aspects of West's personality and musical influences. Vernon represents West's artistic side and his affinity for indie music, while Chief Keef represents West's street side and his connection to Chicago rap. Some critics have also compared the song to West's previous works, such as "Runaway" from My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy (2010) and "Blood on the Leaves" from Yeezus (2013), which also deal with themes of self-loathing and failed relationships.

The song has also been praised for its emotional impact and resonance, as it captures the feelings of loneliness, despair, and regret that many people can relate to. The song has been described as a "drunken confessional", a "nightmare", and a "masterpiece" by various reviewers. The song has also inspired covers and remixes by other artists, such as Lorde and ceo, who have given their own interpretations of the song. The song has also been used in various media, such as films, TV shows, and video games.