California Dream Lyrics – Ab-Soul Ganlyrics

California Dream Lyrics Meaning

[Intro: Vince Staples]
In the intro, Vince Staples is expressing acceptance and defiance at the same time. He’s letting go of any regrets or worries about what could have been or what should have happened. It’s about accepting things as they are, and not getting bogged down by the past or the “what ifs.” Despite all the confusion and struggle, he’s also questioning why things turned out this way for him, asking “Why me?” to God, though he knows deep down there’s no clear answer coming.

[Verse 1: Vince Staples]
In this verse, Vince Staples paints a gritty picture of his life in the streets, marked by distrust and pain. He doesn’t want fake people around him, so he keeps his distance, leaving his phone on Do Not Disturb and ignoring people who aren’t genuine. He’s witnessed a lot of loss, particularly in the form of late nights and friends dying. His father’s struggles with addiction are mentioned, and Vince connects this to the idea of violence, referencing shooters like Kareem. He’s tough and private, keeping his life hidden, but always staying prepared in case of danger. He reflects on a friendship that ended after his partner chose to snitch (“went PC”), and he makes it clear that he’s loyal to the streets. Vince also calls out fake tough guys who lie about their experiences in their music. He’s just focused on making money and staying out of trouble, acknowledging that his lifestyle leaves him stuck between the streets and the potential for jail or death. Despite his success, he still feels tied to the rough life of the streets, even though he’s signed to a major label like UMG, contrasting this with his upbringing near the beach, which represents a more idyllic version of the California dream.

[Verse 2: Ab-Soul & Vince Staples]
In this verse, Ab-Soul reflects on the idea of accepting life as it is, just like in the intro, even though sometimes he questions why things have turned out the way they have. He admits that he knows there won’t be an answer to his questions because the reality of his life has already been written. He feels “covered in blood,” a metaphor for the struggles and sacrifices he’s made. Ab-Soul mentions his bond with his friend D, which symbolizes loyalty, even in difficult situations like being in a VIP section that’s metaphorically “in the doghouse” – a place of exile. He then mentions his affiliation with TDE, showing how the label helped turn his creative ideas into something bigger. There’s also a nod to the business side of music with the mention of “Herbert Stevens IV,” a reference to the behind-the-scenes people who support his career. He proudly describes his street roots and how he’s still part of the culture, but he also reflects on the past, with memories of simpler times, like smoking blunts with his friend Blocka or eating certain foods. Ultimately, Ab-Soul suggests that if you weren’t part of that journey with him, you might be better off leaving behind the California dream. This verse is about acknowledging where he’s been while questioning the real value of the dream that California promises.