Ye – COUSINS

Ye – COUSINS

“COUSINS” is a track from Ye’s album Donda 2, released in 2022. The song explores themes of identity, relationships, and societal judgment, reflecting Ye’s candid and often controversial approach to personal storytelling. The lyrics delve into the complexities of adolescence, experimentation, and the struggle for acceptance amidst stigma.

Ye – COUSINS Lyrics

Refrain:
I saw you outside again
Just hangin’ out with your friends

Verse 1:
Hangin’ with my cousin, readin’ dirty magazines
We seen two niggas kissin’, we ain’t know what that shit mean
Then we start re-enactin’ everything that we had seen
That’s when I gave my cousin head, gave my cousin head
Gave my cousin head, I gave my cousin head
I gave my cousin head

Refrain:
I saw you outside again
Just hangin’ out with your friends

Verse 2:
And I know these niggas ’bout to judge me now
Started off when we was hangin’ out
Told my cousin not to tell nobody
People tell me take it to my grave
(“Truth will set you free someday”)
I don’t think they understand, that I’m not attracted to a man
(They thought I was gay)

Chorus:
Nitrous don’t help me, it just put me in a trance
I’m talkin’ about euphoria, I am not talkin’ about a man
Told her, “Don’t leave me, ’cause I need you by my side”
As long as you don’t leave me, then I’ll probably be alright
And that one time that you left me, I didn’t get no sleep that night
And that one time that you left me, I took ten Percs to get high
Ten Percs to get high, pray that I don’t die
But if I die, I’ll see you in the sky
Two pints of the Qua’-Qua’, don’t leave, just stay, bae
Let’s go on a vacay, leave the world behind

Bridge:
Leave the world behind
Leave the world behind

Chorus:
Nitrous don’t help me, it just put me in a trance
I’m talkin’ about euphoria, I am not talkin’ about a man
Told her, “Don’t leave me, ’cause I need you by my side”
As long as you don’t leave me, then I’ll probably be alright
Then I’ll probably be alright
Then I’ll probably be alright
Ten Percs to get high, pray that I don’t die
But if I die, I’ll see you in the sky
Two pints of the Qua’-Qua’, don’t leave, just stay, bae
Let’s go on a vacay, leave the world behind
Ten Percs to get high, pray that I don’t die
But if I die, I’ll see you in the sky
Two pints of the Qua’-Qua’, don’t leave, just stay, bae
Let’s go on a vacay, leave the world behind

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Refrain:
   • The opening lines set a casual scene, suggesting a sense of nostalgia and carefree youth.
2. “Hangin’ with my cousin, readin’ dirty magazines”
   • This line introduces themes of adolescent curiosity and exploration of sexuality.
3. “We seen two niggas kissin’, we ain’t know what that shit mean”
   • The speaker reflects on their initial exposure to same-sex affection, highlighting innocence and confusion.
4. “Then we start re-enactin’ everything that we had seen”
   • This suggests experimentation and mimicry, common in youthful exploration of identity.
5. “That’s when I gave my cousin head”
   • This controversial line explores taboo subjects, emphasizing the complexity of relationships among peers.
6. Refrain:
   • The repetition reinforces the carefree tone while juxtaposing deeper themes of judgment and acceptance.
7. “And I know these niggas ’bout to judge me now”
   • The speaker acknowledges societal judgment, introducing vulnerability and fear of stigma.
8. “Told my cousin not to tell nobody”
   • This line highlights the secrecy and shame often associated with exploring one’s identity.
9. “People tell me take it to my grave”
   • This reflects societal pressures to hide one’s truth, suggesting a struggle against conformity.
10. Chorus:
    • The focus shifts to a relationship characterized by dependency and emotional turmoil.
11. “Nitrous don’t help me, it just put me in a trance”
    • This line suggests reliance on substances for escape, indicating deeper issues with coping.
12. “Pray that I don’t die, but if I die, I’ll see you in the sky”
    • Here, the speaker grapples with mortality, love, and the desire for connection beyond life.
13. Bridge & Repetition:
    • The repetition emphasizes a need for escape and a longing for closeness, reinforcing the song’s emotional weight.

Song Details

Detail	Information
Artist	Ye
Album	Donda 2
Release Year	2022
Genre	Hip-Hop/Rap
Key Themes	Identity, Relationships, Judgment
Notable Features	Controversial subject matter

Theme

The central themes of “COUSINS” include exploration of identity, societal judgment, and emotional dependency. The song navigates the complexities of youthful experiences and the impact of societal norms on personal relationships.

Meaning

Overall, “COUSINS” conveys a raw and honest exploration of adolescent curiosity, the struggle for acceptance, and the emotional weight of relationships. It addresses taboo subjects while highlighting the universal quest for understanding and connection.

FAQs

Q: What inspired Ye to write “COUSINS”?
A: The song reflects Ye’s personal experiences with identity, relationships, and the pressures of societal judgment.

Q: Why is the subject matter controversial?
A: The lyrics address themes of taboo sexual exploration and vulnerability, which can provoke strong reactions.

Q: What is the significance of the chorus?
A: The chorus encapsulates feelings of dependency and the emotional highs and lows associated with love and substance use.

Conclusion

“COUSINS” is a poignant exploration of identity and relationships, framed within the context of youthful exploration and societal judgment. Ye’s candid lyrics challenge listeners to reflect on their own experiences with acceptance and connection. 🎤💔✨