Let Him Cook: Exploring the Origins and Impact of a Popular Slang Phrase
by Tara Price
17th January, 2024
In the dynamic arena of internet vernacular, ‘let him cook’ has emerged as a standout phrase, echoing across various digital platforms. Tracing its origins back to the creative realms of hip-hop, specifically to rapper Lil B in 2010, this phrase has transcended its musical roots. Originally conceptualised in a YouTube video, ‘to cook’ was metaphorically used by Lil B to signify taking one’s time with care and attention. Evolving from ‘Let that boy cook’ to the now-popular ‘Let him cook,’ the phrase is a rallying cry for allowing creative freedom and uninterrupted expression. Our exploration delves deep into how this phrase shifted from a rapper’s slogan to an internet meme, examining its impact and adaptability across diverse online and offline landscapes.”
The Origins of Let Him Cook
The phrase “let him cook” can be traced back to the Bay Area rapper Lil B. In 2010, Lil B released a song titled “Suck My D*ck Hoe,” which featured a dance move mimicking the act of cooking.
This dance move became associated with the phrase “let him cook,” signifying the act of someone doing their thing and excelling in their craft. Lil B explained in a YouTube video that “to cook” means to take one’s time and care, and “let that boy cook” means to let someone do their thing.
The Spread of the Meme
The “let him cook” meme gained traction when NBA star James Harden incorporated a cooking celebration into his repertoire. This caught the attention of Lil B, who accused Harden of stealing his cooking dance. Lil B even placed a curse on Harden, which coincided with a decline in his performance on the court.
The meme further evolved when NFL quarterback Russell Wilson’s trade to the Denver Broncos sparked the phrase “let Russ cook.” Initially used to support Wilson’s performance on the field, the phrase took on a sarcastic tone after a disappointing season with the Broncos. “Let Russ Cook” became a rallying cry for fans, sarcastically questioning Wilson’s ability to perform at his best.
The Meaning and Usage of Let Him Cook
The phrase “let him cook” is often used to express support for someone’s skills, ideas, or creative endeavors. It can be employed in various contexts, such as sports, flirting, or expressing unconventional opinions. When used seriously, it signifies giving someone the freedom to excel in their chosen field. Conversely, it can be used ironically to highlight questionable or ridiculous statements or actions.
For example, if someone is defending the skills of an athlete with unconventional techniques, they might say, “He may have an unorthodox style, but let him cook; he knows what he’s doing.” On the other hand, if someone makes a questionable statement, others may respond with, “Hold up, let him cook. I want to see where this goes.“
The Impact of the Meme
The “let him cook” meme has permeated various aspects of popular culture, including social media platforms like Twitter and TikTok. Users employ the phrase to support or mock others, depending on the context. It has become a way to encourage individuals to express themselves freely or to challenge their unconventional ideas.
The phrase has also been associated with memes featuring the character Woody from the Pixar movie Toy Story. In these memes, Woody is depicted holding back another character, with captions like “Hold up, let him cook.” This adds an additional layer of humour and relatability to the meme.
Exploring Related Terms and Variations
The popularity of the “let him cook” meme has given rise to several related terms and variations. Some common examples include “who let him cook,” “let that boy cook,” and “hold on, let him cook.” These variations maintain the core meaning of giving someone the freedom to showcase their skills or ideas.
Additionally, the phrase has inspired the use of related terms in different contexts. For instance, in the world of sports, phrases like “let her cook” or “let them cook” are used to support female athletes or teams. This expansion of the meme demonstrates its versatility and adaptability in various settings.
The Evolution of the Let Him Cook Meme
Over time, the “let him cook” meme has evolved and taken on new forms. From its origins in Lil B’s music and dance moves, it has spread to the worlds of sports, social media, and popular culture. Its sarcastic usage has added a layer of humour and irony to the meme, making it a popular choice for online discussions and debates.
The incorporation of Woody from Toy Story into the meme further illustrates the creative and adaptable nature of internet culture. Memes are often repurposed and reimagined, and the “let him cook” meme is no exception.
Conclusion
The “let him cook” meme has become a recognisable phrase in internet slang, signifying the encouragement to let someone shine in their chosen field or express their ideas freely. Originating from Lil B’s music and dance moves, the meme has evolved and spread through various platforms, including social media and popular culture references.
Whether used seriously to support someone’s talents or ironically to mock questionable actions, the phrase “let him cook” has become a versatile and relatable expression. Its impact can be seen in the way it has influenced online discussions, sports fandom, and the creation of humorous memes.
So, the next time you come across the phrase “let him cook” in your online interactions, remember its origins and the diverse ways it has been embraced and adapted.
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