Nicki Minaj is one of the most influential and controversial artists of the 21st century. Her song “Beez in the Trap,” featuring 2 Chainz, is a prime example of her unique style and lyricism. The song was released on her album “Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded” in 2012 and became a hit single.
In this article, we will analyze the meaning behind the lyrics of “Beez in the Trap” and explore the themes that Minaj addresses in the song.
Lyrics Interpretation
Before we delve into the story behind this song, let’s take a closer look at each verse of the lyrics.
Chorus: Establishing a Strong Presence
“Bitches ain’t shit and they ain’t sayin’ nothing
A hundred motherfuckers can’t tell me nothing
I beez in the trap, bee beez in the trap
I beez in the trap, bee beez in the trap”
The chorus of “Beez in the Trap” serves as a powerful assertion of Minaj’s self-confidence and dominance in the rap industry. The phrase “beez in the trap” is a metaphor for being deeply entrenched in one’s work or hustle, indicating Minaj’s dedication and success in her career. The repetition of this phrase throughout the song emphasizes her unwavering commitment to her craft.
Verse 1: Success and Determination
“Man I been did that, man I been popped off
And if she ain’t trying to give it up she get dropped off
…
Bitch, I spit that crack, like I’m in that trap
So if you need a hit, then I’m with that bat (Bow!)”
In the first verse, Minaj reflects on her past accomplishments and reaffirms her position as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. The lyrics describe her ability to produce hits and her unrelenting work ethic. The line “I spit that crack, like I’m in that trap” further reinforces the idea of her success and determination in the rap game.
Verse 2: 2 Chainz’s Contribution
“Okay now Nicki, Nicki, Nicki, put it in your kidney
Got a new LS 450, ain’t no keys in this do-hicky
…
Audi A8, told them “outtie 5000,” uh!”
2 Chainz’s verse adds another layer to the themes of success and confidence present in the song. He describes his achievements and possessions, such as the luxury cars, and emphasizes his upward trajectory in the industry. This verse serves as a testament to the collaboration between Minaj and 2 Chainz and their joint successes.
Bridge: Defiance and Confidence
“Damn, damn, what they say about me?
I don’t know man, fuck is on your biscuit
If I get hit, swinging on a big bitch
I don’t know man, I’m shittin’ on your whole life”
The bridge reiterates Minaj’s defiance and indifference to her critics. She questions what people are saying about her but ultimately dismisses it as unimportant. This section highlights her self-assuredness and ability to rise above negativity, a theme that remains consistent throughout the song.
Outro: Asserting Dominance Across the Nation
“Man I’m out in Texas, man, I’m out in A-town
…
Bronx, Harlem, and Staten Island”
The outro serves as a final assertion of Minaj’s dominance and influence, listing various cities across the United States where she has made her mark. This section emphasizes her widespread success and reinforces her position as a powerful figure in the rap industry.
True Meaning Behind “Beez in the Trap”
Deep within the lyrical hive of Nicki Minaj’s “Beez in the Trap,” a sweet message of hard work and success awaits to be uncovered. Crafted by Minaj, Maurice Jordan, and 2 Chainz, with production handled by Kenoe, this track offers a honeyed blend of Southern slang and an empowering chorus that sticks with listeners long after the song ends.
Buzzing with a double meaning, the phrase “bees in the trap” serves as the foundation for the song’s message. On one hand, it’s an old saying that essentially means “I’ve got what I need, and then some more.” Minaj, as the queen bee of her hive, employs this phrase to showcase her success and status in the rap industry.
Simultaneously, the word “beez” is a Southern slang term that translates to “I’m always,” while “trap” refers to a place where dealers sell drugs. In this context, “trap” symbolizes the place where Minaj earns her money – her office, her studio. The hook, “I beez in the Trap,” carries a dual meaning: Minaj is not only wildly successful, but she’s also constantly working and buzzing with energy.
During an interview with Graham Norton, Minaj explained the meaning of “beez” and “trap,” stating, “It just means, ‘I am always…’ you know, that’s our slang way of saying, ‘I beez doing such-and-such-and-such.’ So it’s really like, ‘I am always in the trap.’ Now, the trap, ladies and gentlemen, relates to anywhere where you get your money.”
With this understanding, “Beez in the Trap” transforms from a catchy tune to an anthem that celebrates hard work and ambition. Minaj, as the queen bee, leads her listeners through a lyrical journey of her dedication and achievements. The song serves as a reminder that, like bees in their hives, hard work and perseverance can lead to sweet success.
Music Video
Nicki Minaj’s music video for “Beez in the Trap” was directed by Benny Boom and filmed in Miami on March 18, 2012. The video, which features 2 Chainz, premiered on Minaj’s official VEVO account on April 6, 2012. Since then, the video has amassed over 206 million views as of August 2021.
The video starts off with Minaj in a pink turtleneck leotard, squatting down in front of some barbed wire. Then, we see clips of people partying at a strip club. Soon after, Minaj is shown in a club with a bunch of strippers and exotic dancers, sitting in bikinis and flashing money while flirting with her female friends. That’s when 2 Chainz appears and starts rapping his verse. Minaj dances seductively beside him in a dimly lit room, wearing a leopard print catsuit.
Throughout the video, we see clips of Minaj and others partying and drinking. Birdman even makes a cameo. Towards the end of the video, Minaj raps her second verse in a bikini with her hype man “SB” behind her. She’s in the same dark lit room as before, with strippers sensually dancing around her.
The video ends with Minaj and 2 Chainz back to back. The “Beez in the Trap” music video was even nominated for Best Hip-Hop Video at the 2012 MTV Video Music Awards. It’s a must-see for any fan of Nicki Minaj or 2 Chainz.
Conclusion
In the end, Nicki Minaj’s “Beez in the Trap” is a testament to the power of determination and the honeyed rewards that await those who put in the work. As the queen bee of her own hive, Minaj teaches her fans that success comes to those who are willing to buzz tirelessly and never lose sight of their goals.