HOPE

The song dives into NF's journey of self-discovery and healing. He talks about years of pain, regret, and feeling stuck. Yet, he also shines a light on hope and the power of change. The message is clear: it's never too late to turn things around and seek a better path. NF encourages listeners to believe in themselves, even when it feels like no one else does.

Verse 1

Yeah, I'm on my way, I'm coming
Don't, don't lose faith in me
I know you've been waitin'
I know you've been prayin' for my soul
Hope, hope
Thirty years you been draggin' your feet
Tellin' me I'm the reason we're stagnant
Thirty years you've been claiming you're honest
And promising progress, well, where's it at?
I don't want you to feel like a failure (failure)
I know this hurts
But I gave you your chance to deliver (deliver)
Now it's my turn
Don't get me wrong, Nate, you've had a great run
But it's time to give the people somethin' different
So without further ado, I'd
Like to introduce my
(My album, my album, my album, my album, my album, my album, my album)

In this verse, NF sets the stage for his story. He acknowledges the wait and struggle he's faced, not just for himself but also for those who believe in him. The mention of "thirty years" highlights a long journey filled with frustration and stagnation. He’s calling out the past and challenging himself to deliver something new. There's a sense of urgency and determination here, as he transitions from being held back to taking control of his narrative.

Chorus

What's my definition of success? (Of success)
Listening to what your heart says (your heart says)
Standing up for what you know is (is)
Right, while everybody else is (is)
Tucking their tail between their legs (okay)
What's my definition of success? (Of success)
Creating something no one else can (else can)
Being brave enough to dream big (big)
Grindin' when you're told to just quit (quit)
Giving more when you got nothin' left (left)

The chorus is a powerful reflection on what success means to NF. It’s not about fame or money; it’s about following your heart and standing firm in your beliefs. He emphasizes the bravery it takes to pursue dreams, even in the face of doubt from others. The repetition of the question about success makes it feel like a personal mantra, urging both himself and the listeners to rethink their own definitions of success.

Verse 2

It's a person that'll take a chance on
Something they were told could never happen
It's a person that can see the bright side through the dark times when there ain't one
It's when someone who ain't never had nothin'
Ain't afraid to walk away from more profit
'Cause they'd rather do somethin' that they really love and take the pay cut
It's a person that would never waver
Or change who they are
Just to try and gain some credibility
So they could feel accepted by a stranger

This verse dives deeper into the qualities of a successful person, according to NF. He talks about the courage it takes to go against the odds and choose passion over profit. It's about integrity and staying true to oneself, even when the world says otherwise. NF paints a picture of someone who thrives on authenticity and perseverance, which is inspiring for anyone struggling to find their path.

Chorus

What's my definition of success? (Of success)
Creating something no one else can (else can)
Being brave enough to dream big (big)
Grindin' when you're told to just quit (quit)
Giving more when you got nothin' left (left)

The repetition of the chorus emphasizes its importance, reinforcing the message of finding true success. NF is persistent in sharing what really matters in life, a reminder to chase dreams and stay authentic.

Verse 3

I done did things that I regret
I done said things I can't take back
Was a lost soul at a crossroad who had no hope but I changed that
I spent years of my life holdin' on to things I never should've kept, full of hatred
Years of my life carryin' a lot of baggage that I should've walked away from
Years of my life wishin' I was someone different, lookin' for some validation
Years of my life tryna fill the void, pretending I was in

In this verse, NF reflects on his past mistakes and the weight of regret. He acknowledges the years spent holding onto negativity and searching for validation. It’s raw and honest, showing that it’s okay to make mistakes and feel lost. But he also points out that change is possible, and it’s a crucial step toward healing.

Chorus

What's my definition of success? (Of success)
Creating something no one else can (else can)
Being brave enough to dream big (big)
Grindin' when you're told to just quit (quit)
Giving more when you got nothin' left (left)

Once again, the chorus comes back, reinforcing NF's ideas about success. The repetition serves as a reminder to keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles.

Bridge

Growing pain's a necessary evil
Difficult to go through, yes, but beneficial
Some would say having a mental breakdown is a negative thing
Which on one hand, I agree with
On the other hand, it was the push I needed
To get help and start the healing process, see
If I'd have never hit rock bottom
Would I be the person that I am today?

In the bridge, NF talks about the tough lessons learned through pain. He acknowledges that while struggles can feel heavy, they often lead to growth and healing. It’s a testament to the idea that hitting rock bottom can sometimes be a turning point, pushing us toward a better version of ourselves.

Verse 4

I'm a prime example of what happens when you choose to not accept defeat and face your demons
Took me thirty years to realize that if you want to get the opportunity
To be the greatest version of yourself
Sometimes you got to be someone you're not to hear the voice of reason
Having kids will make you really take a step back and look in the mirror
At least for me that's what it did, I
Wake up every day and pick my son up, hold him in my arms
And let him know he's loved (loved)

Here, NF shows the impact of his journey on his personal life, especially as a father. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and growth. The mention of his son adds a heartfelt touch, showing he wants to break the cycle of pain for the next generation. It’s a powerful moment that highlights love and responsibility.

Chorus

What's my definition of success? (Of success)
Creating something no one else can (else can)
Being brave enough to dream big (big)
Grindin' when you're told to just quit (quit)
Giving more when you got nothin' left (left)

The chorus returns again, solidifying its role as the heart of the song. NF’s focus on success remains clear and consistent, urging listeners to find their own paths.

Outro

Standing by the window questioning if dad is ever going to show up (up)
Isn't something he's gon' have to worry about
Don't get it twisted, that wasn't a shot
Mama, I forgive you
I just don't want him to grow up thinkin' that he'll never be enough
Thirty years of running, thirty years of searching
Thirty years of hurting, thirty years of pain
Thirty years of fearful, thirty years of anger
Thirty years of empty, thirty years of shame
Thirty years of broken, thirty years of anguish
Thirty years of hopeless, thirty years of (hey)
Thirty years of never, thirty years of maybe
Thirty years of later, thirty years of fake
Thirty years of hollow, thirty years of sorrow
Thirty years of darkness, thirty years of (Nate)
Thirty years of baggage, thirty years of sadness
Thirty years of stagnant, thirty years of chains
Thirty years of anxious, thirty years of suffering
Thirty years of torment, thirty years of (wait)
Thirty years of bitter, thirty years of lonely
Thirty years of pushing everyone away
(You'll never evolve) I know I can change
(We are not enough) we are not the same
(You don't have the heart) you don't have the strength
(You don't have the will) you don't have the faith
(You'll never be loved) you'll never be safe
(Might as well give up) not running away
(You don't have the guts) you're the one afraid
I'm the one in charge
I'm taking the (no)
I'm taking the
Reigns

In the outro, NF reflects on his past and the pain he’s faced over the years. The repetition of "thirty years" emphasizes the weight of his experiences. He also expresses forgiveness towards his mother, showing growth and compassion. The last lines about taking charge of his life are powerful, signaling a shift from being a victim of circumstances to being in control of his destiny.

Closing Thoughts

"HOPE" is a journey through struggle, regret, and ultimately, redemption. NF’s vulnerability makes the song relatable, encouraging listeners to face their own battles. It’s a reminder that hope and change are always possible, no matter how heavy the past feels. The song inspires us to believe in ourselves and strive for a brighter future.