Steven Malcolm - Cardio Lyrics

Steven Malcolm - "Cardio" (Official Video)

Cardio Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

Steven Malcolm's song "Cardio" serves as a high-energy declaration of relentless dedication and spiritual perseverance in the face of adversity. The central metaphor of "runnin this thang like cardio" encapsulates the artist's commitment to his journey, emphasizing continuous effort and enduring motion as key elements of his path. This isn't a casual stroll but a strenuous, long-term endeavor, vividly portrayed through images like "puttin miles on the Yeezys" and seeing achievements from a vantage point like a "patio," symbolizing success viewed after the struggle.

The narrative woven through the lyrics highlights a journey originating from challenging circumstances, hinted at by lines like "We came from south of the border" and being "baptized in the smoke." Despite this background and the constant pressure represented by "Demons keep sliding on me" and "oppas tryna block it," the artist maintains a steadfast resolve, refusing to compromise his core values ("I ain't sellin my soul"). He attributes his ability to navigate pressure to divine favor, stating "got that favor on me" and viewing his progress as "prophecy," suggesting a sense of divine purpose guiding his steps. References to figures known for resilience and dominance like Walter Payton and Michael Jordan underscore this theme of pushing through challenges to achieve greatness.

The verses contrast past struggles with present success, recounting a time when belief in his potential was low ("I remember days they didn't believe me") compared to a current reality where his impact is undeniable ("Shining the whole city see me") and his status has elevated ("Nowadays they paying extra to meet me"). Yet, amidst this success, there's a grounded perspective, acknowledging the "wear n the tear on my feet" from the journey and the "valleys I walked." The artist asserts his independence from external control, declaring the "System never has been able to hold me" and the industry cannot "control me," reinforcing an authentic voice rooted in truth rather than superficial themes.

Metaphors of competition and dominance abound, from taking over the "playground" like a "bully" (in a metaphorical sense of artistic impact) to putting the "game in a Figure 4" and not "letting it breathe," illustrating a powerful and sustained presence. The recurring imagery of water and cleansing ("Cover my body in water, Drip all the way to the coast") alongside being "baptized in the smoke" suggests a transformative process, refining him through difficult experiences. The confidence expressed in lines like "I really feel like I'm Pablo" and being "Up on Rushmore while they Chizzle my cheek" speaks to a self-belief and a sense of leaving a lasting mark.

Ultimately, "Cardio" delivers an inspirational message about the fusion of hard work, unwavering faith, and resilience. It celebrates the journey of overcoming doubt and opposition through persistent effort, guided by a strong moral compass and a belief in a predetermined path. The song embodies the spirit of pushing forward relentlessly, seeing obstacles not as roadblocks but as part of the conditioning required to reach one's destination, much like an athlete training with intense cardio.