JU$T (feat. Pharrell Williams & Zack de la Rocha)

The overall theme of "JU$T" centers around the idea that, despite the abolition of slavery, many people still live under oppressive systems. The artists highlight how society, especially those in power, often exploit the vulnerable for profit. They also reflect on personal experiences with crime, survival, and the harsh realities of living in a world where money and power dictate worth. It’s raw, honest, and confrontational, making listeners think about their own roles in this system.

Verse 1

Mastered economics 'cause you took yourself from squalor (Slave)
Mastered academics 'cause your grades say you a scholar (Slave)
Mastered Instagram 'cause you can instigate a follow (Shit)
Look at all these slave masters posin' on yo' dollar (Get it, yeah)

In this verse, the artists lay out a stark picture of survival and success. They mention mastering different aspects of life, like economics and education, but still link it back to the idea of being a "slave." This means that even when people achieve success, they are still bound by a system that exploits them. The reference to Instagram shows how social media can also be a tool for manipulation and control, where followers equate to power. The phrase "slave masters posin' on yo' dollar" drives home the point that those in charge often profit from the labor and struggles of others.

Chorus

Look at all these slave masters (Ayy) posin' on yo' dollar (Get it, yeah)
Look at all these slave masters (Ayy) posin' on yo' dollar (Get it)
Look at all these slave masters (Ayy) posin' on yo' dollar (Get it, yeah)
Look at all these slave masters

The chorus repeats the phrase about "slave masters," reinforcing the message of exploitation. The repetition makes it catchy but also emphasizes the urgency of the message. It’s like a rallying cry, drawing attention to the hypocrisy and greed in the system. By focusing on the same line, the artists make sure listeners can't ignore the reality they’re painting.

Verse 2

Ayy
Business time, I'm on mine, I be mindin' mine (Make money)
Every time on my grind, I'm just tryna shine (Stay sunny)
Make a dollar, government, they want a dozen dimes (No cap)
The petty kind

In this verse, the focus shifts to the hustle and grind of everyday life. The artists talk about making money and trying to succeed, but there’s a hint of sarcasm in the tone. They recognize that the government is also involved in this hustle, wanting a cut of every dollar made. The reference to “petty kind” suggests that even small amounts of money can lead to big consequences. It captures the struggle of wanting to thrive while being trapped in a system that makes it hard to do so.

Chorus

I done had to have a talk with myself many times (For real)
Am I a hypocrite 'cause I know I did plenty crimes? (Yes, I'm is)
I get broke too many times
I might slang some dimes (Back to trappin')

This chorus reflects the inner conflict many face in a tough environment. The artists are admitting to their struggles and questioning their choices. It's a moment of vulnerability, showing that they recognize their flaws and mistakes. The mention of "slang some dimes" connects back to the cycle of crime and survival, highlighting how hard it can be to break free from that cycle.

Bridge

You believe corporations runnin' marijuana? (How that happen? Ooh)
And your country gettin' ran by a casino owner (Ooh)
Pedophiles sponsor all these fuckin' racist bastards (They do)
And I told you once before that you should kill your master (It's true)
Now that's the line that's probably gon' get my ass assassinated

In the bridge, they tackle heavy themes like corporate control and the moral decay in society. The mention of marijuana and casino owners points to how big businesses exploit issues for profit. They call out the hypocrisy and corruption in leadership, suggesting that the people with power often don't have the best interests of the public at heart. The line about "kill your master" is shocking but emphasizes a radical call for change.

Chorus

Master of these politics, you swear that you got options (Slave, yeah)
Master of opinion 'cause you vote with the white collar (Slave)
The Thirteenth Amendment says that slavery's abolished (Shit)
Look at all these slave masters posin' on yo' dollar (Get it)

Here, they reinforce the idea that even in politics, people are often manipulated. The line about the Thirteenth Amendment reminds listeners that while slavery was officially abolished, systemic oppression still exists. It’s a call to recognize that just because laws exist, it doesn’t mean true freedom is achieved. The chorus ties back to the main themes of exploitation and the façade of freedom.

Outro

2020, run the map
Raw, I'm uncut in my hourglass
Don't watch it spill to the bottom half
You see the piece, now run it fast
On the tarmac, in a Starter jack

In the outro, there’s a sense of urgency and reflection on the current state of the world. The mention of 2020 suggests a specific time that was marked by significant social upheaval. The imagery of the hourglass implies that time is running out, and action is needed. It wraps up the song by emphasizing the need to recognize and confront these issues head-on.

Closing Thoughts

"JU$T" is a powerful commentary on modern struggles against systemic oppression and exploitation. Each verse builds on the idea that while individuals may try to rise above their circumstances, they are often held back by the larger structures at play. The artists blend personal experiences with broader social critiques, making it a thought-provoking piece that challenges listeners to think critically about their own roles in the society we live in.