Rick Ross could be referring to the way that the appearance of democracy can be used to keep a community appeased and docile, when in fact in the United States the Electoral College pretty much determines presidencies. Also, the US similarly ‘deals’ out democracy to the middle east, well-seeming political intentions often disguising imperialism and business interests.

Lil Wayne is using the imagery of canines to paint a picture: as a big ‘dawg’ (aka the man or boss) he has an equally big mansion, and he smokes so much he could fill a dog bowl with the ash from his blunts.

The pharmaceutical industry know it makes a profit selling pills when the same illnesses can often be treated naturally or otherwise for a fraction of the cost.

This line is about my father’s suicide and the guilt I felt. I thought he might have become depressed after seeing me go through depression as well.

Depression can often prevent you from sleeping and functioning properly

Lupe is having a conversation with his younger self; this is similar to his song “Till I Get There”:

Huh, said a young boy in the mirror
A young version of me, so I started to tear up
He said, you need to cheer up
Your mind need to clear up
You’re already here
Just be yourself from here up

What Lupe’s saying is that he was that kid back in the early 90’s, not understanding the wise words of an OG. Fast forward to now and Lupe has become that OG, talking to a kid from a new generation. Times change but the message remains the same.

No one can stand in your way when you go for your goals