Cardi B’s breakout single “Bodak Yellow,” released in 2017, cemented her as a dominant force in the music industry. This rap anthem became a cultural phenomenon, resonating with fans worldwide and earning Cardi the distinction of being the first solo female rapper to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart in nearly 20 years. The track is celebrated for its confidence and vivid storytelling, with Cardi weaving her rise from a former stripper to a self-made rap mogul.
Produced by J. White Did It, the song draws inspiration from Kodak Black’s “No Flockin” and incorporates a hard-hitting beat and catchy cadence. “Bodak Yellow” not only highlights Cardi’s lyrical prowess but also serves as a declaration of independence, resilience, and self-made success. In this article, we’ll delve into the lyrics to uncover the meaning behind Cardi B’s defining hit.
Cardi B – “Bodak Yellow” Video (2017)
“Bodak Yellow” Lyrics Meaning
Cardi B’s lyrics in “Bodak Yellow” are a masterclass in braggadocio and empowerment, delivered through punchy, straightforward verses. The song is rich with imagery and celebrates the rewards of hard work and ambition.
Verse 1
Now she say she gon’ do what to who? Let’s find out and see
Cardi B, you know where I’m at, you know where I be
You in the club just to party, I’m there, I get paid a fee
I be in and out them banks so much, I know they’re tired of me
Honestly, don’t give a fuck ’bout who ain’t fond of me
Dropped two mixtapes in six months
What bitch working as hard as me?
I don’t bother with these hoes, don’t let these hoes bother me
They see pictures, they say, “Goals,” bitch, I’m who they tryna be
Look, I might just chill in some BAPE
I might just chill with your boo, I might just feel on your babe
My pussy feel like a lake
He wanna swim with his face, I’m like, “Okay”
I’ll let him get what he want, he buy me Yves Saint Laurent
And the new whip, when I go fast as a horse
I got the trunk in the front (Vroom, vroom)
I’m the hottest in the street, know you prolly heard of me
Got a bag and fixed my teeth, hope you hoes know it ain’t cheap
And I pay my mama bills, I ain’t got no time to chill
Think these hoes be mad at me, their baby father run a bill
In the first verse, Cardi B sets the stage by showcasing her success and work ethic. Lines like “Dropped two mixtapes in six months / What b***h working as hard as me?” emphasize her hustle and dedication. She contrasts her purpose-driven presence at clubs, where she gets paid, with others who party aimlessly. Her proclamation, “Got a bag and fixed my teeth,” symbolizes self-improvement and the tangible benefits of her newfound wealth.
The verse also exudes power dynamics, where Cardi positions herself as aspirational and untouchable. “They see pictures, they say, ‘Goals,’” asserts her role as a trendsetter who others emulate.
Chorus
Said, “Lil’ bitch, you can’t fuck with me if you wanted to”
These expensive, these is red bottoms, these is bloody shoes
Hit the store, I can get ’em both, I don’t wanna choose
And I’m quick, cut a nigga off, so don’t get comfortable, look
I don’t dance now, I make money moves
Say I don’t gotta dance, I make money moves
If I see you and I don’t speak, that means I don’t fuck with you
I’m a boss, you a worker, bitch, I make bloody moves
The chorus is an anthem of confidence and dominance. Cardi boldly states, “Lil’ bh, you can’t f with me if you wanted to,” drawing a line between herself and her competition. The imagery of “red bottoms” and “bloody shoes” reflects her success and opulence, a direct nod to the Louboutin heels she flaunts as a status symbol. The phrase “money moves” encapsulates her transformation into a powerful businesswoman who no longer dances but commands wealth and respect.
Verse 2
If you a pussy, you get popped, you a goofy, you a opp
Don’t you come around my way, you can’t hang around my block
And I just checked my accounts, turns out, I’m rich, I’m rich, I’m rich
I put my hand above my hip, I bet you dip, he dip, she dip
I say I get the money and go, this shit is hot like a stove
My pussy glitter is gold, tell that lil’ bitch play her role
I just arrove in a Rolls, I just came up in a Wraith
I need to fill up the tank, no, I need to fill up the safe
I need to let all these hoes know that none of their niggas is safe
I go to dinner and steak, only the real can relate
I used to live in the P’s, now it’s a crib with a gate
Rollie got charms, look like Frosted Flakes
Had to let these bitches know, just in case these hoes forgot
I just run and check the mail, another check from Mona Scott
In the second verse, Cardi doubles down on her assertiveness. Lines like “If you a pussy, you get popped” illustrate her no-nonsense attitude toward rivals and detractors. Her confidence peaks with “I just checked my accounts, turns out, I’m rich, I’m rich, I’m rich,” a triumphant acknowledgment of her financial success.
Cardi reminisces on her past, juxtaposing her humble beginnings in “the P’s” (projects) with her current lifestyle in a gated home. This contrast serves as a testament to her journey, and the line “Rollie got charms, look like Frosted Flakes” further showcases her luxury-filled reality.
She also references her 2015 appearance on Love & Hip-Hop, noting that she received another check in the mail from Mona Scott, the show’s executive producer.
Closing Thoughts
“Bodak Yellow” is a quintessential rags-to-riches anthem that encapsulates Cardi B’s meteoric rise and unwavering self-assurance. The song is a celebration of success, perseverance, and self-expression, delivered with Cardi’s unique charisma. It not only solidified her place in rap history but also inspired listeners to embrace their power and ambition unapologetically.Remix with Kodak Black (2017)
Remix with Kodak Black (2017)
Following the massive success of “Bodak Yellow,” Cardi B released a remix featuring Kodak Black in September 2017. This collaboration was particularly significant as the original track drew inspiration from Kodak’s 2015 song “No Flockin,” mirroring its flow and cadence. By inviting Kodak onto the remix, Cardi paid homage to his influence while cementing her dominance in the rap game.
Kodak’s verse added a gritty authenticity to the track, blending his laid-back delivery with Cardi’s high-energy bravado. The remix served to unite their distinct styles, further amplifying the song’s popularity and solidifying its place as a cultural touchstone.