The Meaning Behind The Song: Unnecessary by Childish Gambino

“Unnecessary” is the fifth track on Childish Gambino’s mixtape, “Royalty,” featuring ScHoolboy Q and Ab-Soul. Released in 2012, this song explores the three artists’ experiences with the unnecessarily lavish lifestyles they lead. The lyrics delve into the extravagances they indulge in, questioning the need for such excess. Let’s dive deeper into the meaning behind the lyrics and examine my personal connection with this song.

Childish Gambino, also known as Donald Glover, introduces the track by playfully asserting his royal status. He raps about his fame and popularity, declaring himself part of royalty and using the “royal we” to refer to himself and his entourage. This sets the tone for the song’s exploration of the unnecessary displays of wealth and success.

In the first verse, Childish Gambino questions the fame and recognition he has achieved. He humorously asks if anyone knows who he is, wondering if people have seen him on television (referencing being on TiVo). He also brags about his extravagant lifestyle, mentioning his expensive hotel accommodations and his ability to make money effortlessly. Childish Gambino asserts his superiority over others, emphasizing that they are merely a backup plan (plan B) while he is the A-team. The verse also touches on the idea of reclaiming summer from those who want it back, emphasizing his ability to dominate the rap industry.

The chorus focuses on the unnecessary aspects of their lifestyles. Childish Gambino and his collaborators boast about spending excessive amounts of money on their outfits, skiing in Japan, and partying with drugs like Molly. They acknowledge that these actions and expenditures are not essential, but they derive pleasure from indulging in them.

ScHoolboy Q takes over for the second verse, adding his perspective on unnecessary extravagance. He reflects on the advice he had received not to spend extravagantly, but disregards it, choosing to purchase luxury items such as a belt and Rolex watch. ScHoolboy Q boasts about his success as a rapper, stating that even his mixtape could help someone pay for college. He emphasizes his flawless smile, comparing it to the perfection of pure pearls. ScHoolboy Q also highlights his involvement in criminal activities, mentioning his past encounters with the law while emphasizing that all of these actions are unnecessary.

Ab-Soul takes the third verse, showcasing his lyrical prowess and wit. He references his song “Black Lip Bastard” and the reaction it sparked from Soulja Boy, who released a similar track soon after. Ab-Soul embraces his uniqueness and unrivaled talent, suggesting that others cannot see his vision. He mentions that he is not getting mainstream radio play, sarcastically noting that even B.o.B, a mainstream artist, has not overshadowed him. Ab-Soul’s verse touches on his spiritual side as an enlightened individual, mentioning the use of DMT, a powerful hallucinogenic substance. He also references his love for the rap game and his determination to outshine his peers.

Personally, “Unnecessary” resonates with me because it lifts the curtain on the often unrealistic and extravagant lifestyles portrayed in the music industry. It serves as a reminder to question the significance and purpose of material possessions and excessive spending. While some may be attracted to the glamour and luxury depicted in music, this song invites listeners to challenge the idea that these things are necessary for fulfillment and success.

As an individual, I have often been drawn to glitz and materialistic desires, influenced by the allure of music videos and celebrities’ lavish lifestyles. However, “Unnecessary” has allowed me to examine these desires critically and question their true importance in my life. It reminds me to focus on genuine connections and personal growth rather than seeking validation through material possessions.

In conclusion, “Unnecessary” by Childish Gambino, featuring ScHoolboy Q and Ab-Soul, offers a candid exploration of the unnecessarily lavish lifestyles lived by these artists. Through witty lyrics and clever wordplay, they question the need for excessive spending and material possessions. The song serves as a reminder to assess our own desires and motivations while challenging the societal pressure to conform to a lavish lifestyle. “Unnecessary” invites listeners to find fulfillment in personal growth and genuine connections rather than in the pursuit of extravagant indulgences.