Prime Picks: “Cadillac (A Pimp’s Anthem)” by Victoria Monét
The song presents a bold and confident picture, celebrating self-assurance.
The time has come.
Victoria Monét finally unleashes her long-awaited debut LP and sequel to one of the beloved R&B projects of 2020 with JAGUAR II, and it ranks among some of the best albums released this year. She’s ahead of the pack with her creative songwriting and the musicianship the genre has been dearly missing for a long time.
The fifth track on JAGUAR II, “Cadillac (A Pimp’s Anthem),” produced by D’Mile & Tim Suby, portrays a sense of empowerment and confidence, emphasizing a smooth and luxurious nature of a ‘Cadillac’ as a metaphor, while the sound reminisces of OutKast’s “SpottieOttieDopaliscious.” The recurring theme revolves around self-assurance and control, with Monét likening herself and other women to pimps.
The lyrics of the song are filled with vivid imagery and symbolism. The intro sets the tone with descriptions of women in heels, fur coats, and jewelry, leading to the chorus repeating, “We keep it smooth like a Cadillac.” The verse further builds on this theme, with lines like “We run it, been winnin’ since from the beginning of your whole life” and “‘Cause this pu**y ain’t no alley cat, we comin’ from the jungle.” These lines emphasize strength, control, and a refusal to be underestimated.
Among the standout lines in the song, the chorus is particularly memorable with its smooth and catchy repetition. The line “It’s funny how y’all don't think we be pimps too” is significant as it challenges stereotypes and asserts a position of power. The imagery of the Cadillac, diamonds, and the black hand sign adds to the song’s unique flavor, creating a blend of luxury, strength, and defiance that resonates throughout the track.