Long Beach rapper Vince Staples has never been one to mince words, and his latest single Shame On The Devil is a prime example of his unflinching honesty.
Released on May 20th, the hard-hitting track serves as the lead single from his upcoming album, Dark Times, out May 24th.
The track finds the 30-year-old artist at his most vulnerable and introspective yet.
If you’re a Staples fan, you know this project marks the end of an era; it’s his final album with Def Jam after a decade of boundary-pushing hip-hop.
“Shame On The Devil” Lyrics Breakdown and Production
The haunting production, courtesy of SAINT MINO, Tyler Page, Joe Harrison, and Michael Uzowuru, sets the tone with its atmospheric, retro-soul soundscape.
Shame On The Devil lyrics makes it an highlight in his distinguished discography.
The first verse of Shame On The Devil sees Vince Staples wrestling with themes of love, loyalty, and self-improvement:
“I long for lovin’ and affection / These hoes ain’t what I need; I need direction.”
Damn, he really said the quiet part out loud. He’s struggling with his demons, torn between chasing thrills and craving something deeper.
The repetition of “Voices still in my head” is chilling, making you feel the weight of his internal battles.
Powerful Juxtaposition in “Shame On The Devil” Chorus
But then the chorus comes in like a glimmer of hope, with Baby Rose’s angelic vocals joining Vince: “Shame on the Devil, I’m touched by an angel / The Lord made me special.”
It’s a powerful juxtaposition—acknowledging his flaws while expressing gratitude for his blessings.
You can almost hear Vince catching his breath, taking a moment to reflect.
The second verse is where Vince Staples really shines, though. He’s looking back on his journey from the streets to becoming a role model, and the imagery is vivid as hell.
Lines like “Look what I’m jugglin’, Tommy the clown / Momma ‘nem found a way, keepin’ me clean, wipin’ me down” hit you right in the feels. You can practically smell the nostalgia wafting off those words.
Vulnerable Conclusion to “Shame On The Devil”
And just when you think he’s bared it all, Vince Staple closes with a heartfelt prayer: “Dear God, forgive me for my sins / Forgive me for trespasses and those who trespass against me.”
It’s a raw, vulnerable moment that leaves you shook, but also hoping that he finds the redemption he’s seeking.
“Shame On The Devil” Music Video Amplifies Emotions
The Shame On The Devil video, shot in a stark split-screen format, mirrors the song’s sense of duality. On one side, we see Staples’ face in tight close-up as he delivers his candid verses.
The other side shows only shifting shadows, providing an eerie visual representation of the inner demons he’s confronting.
Conclusion
Shame On The Devil showcases Vince Staples’ lyrical prowess and emotional depth. The track’s intricate production, combined with Staples’ honest and reflective lyrics, makes it a powerful addition to his discography.
As he prepares to release Dark Times on May 24, this track sets the stage for what promises to be a poignant and impactful album.
For fans and new listeners alike, Shame On The Devil offers a profound look into the mind of one of hip-hop’s most compelling artists.
Listen to the song and delve into its rich layers—you won’t be disappointed.
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Vince Staples Shame On The Devil Lyrics
Verse 1: Vince Staples
I long for lovin’ and affection
These hoes ain’t what I need, I need direction
Don’t leave me, please, swear I learned my lesson
But, I still chase thrills, I’m imperfected
I don’t want to talk on the phone, leave me a message
Voices still in my head, voices still in my head
Beef with my closest of friends and made no amends
I’d rather kill him instead
Out of all of the rumors to spread
You pick the one that’s gon’ get us some fed timе
Corey still calling with deadlines
Chorus: Baby Rose & Vince Staples
Shamе on the Devil
I’m touched by an angel
The Lord made me special (Made me special)
I’ve prayed for days like this (Thank God)
Shame on the Devil
I’m touched by an angel
The Lord made me special (Special)
I’ve prayed for days like this (Amen)
Verse 2: Vince Staples
Mission complete, outta the mud
Labeled a “leader” they following cuz
Light on my feet, floatin’ above
I don’t be creepin’ or keepin’ in touch
I know some hoes that’ll pull up to give me some pussy before they come give me a hug
Shit is disgustin’
But then, only the heavens can judge
Look what I’m jugglin’, Tommy the clown
Momma ‘nem found a way, keepin’ me clean, wipin’ me down
Loved, when that Boosie and Webbie would play
Passing the Getty to pull up on bae
Getting them Malibu chills
Though we not talking as much as we should, know that I’m proud of you still
Sliding for Shelly and Phil
If I don’t do it, who will?
Tell me, who shoot for the shooters?
Who gon’ look after Medusa?
Life is a bitch, hit it, then quit
Deal with the karma, the sutra
Fuck up some commas like Future
Chorus: Baby Rose & Vince Staples
Shame on the Devil
I’m touched by an angel
The Lord made me special (Made me special)
I’ve prayed for days like this (Thank God)
Shame on the Devil
I’m touched by an angel
The Lord made me special (Special)
I’ve prayed for days like this (Amen)
Outro: Vince Staples
Dear God, forgive me for my sins
Forgive me for trespasses and those who trespass against me (I prayed for days like this)
For they know not what they do (I hope that it’s a good day)
And who they do it to (I really need a good day)
Please help me, father (I hope that it’s a good day)
[?] (I’m praying it’s a good day)
[?] (I really need a good day)
[?] (Ain’t had too many good days)
Keep prayin’, keep prayin’
Keep prayin’, keep prayin’
Keep prayin’, keep prayin’
Keep prayin’, keep prayin’
Amen