Ski Mask The Slump God - “Carbonated Water”
Is This N***a Okay?- Satirical Piece -Article By: Mad King James
“Carbonated Water” by Florida rapper Ski Mask The Slump God is a catchy, witty, and unique single sampling XXXTentacion’s introduction from their previous collaborative song “What in XXXTARNATION.” The track was produced by, the now distinguished, Ronny J. In this song he pays tribute to XXXTENTACION, and admits that his nicotine addiction is killing him. While the song is heavily up-beat, there are suicidal themes throughout the song.
The XXXTENTACION sample can easily be overlooked as Slump paying tribute, or for the haters, he’s trying to cash his “X check”. The sample states, “That means I shoot backwards, backwards” (Genius). Shooting backwards means to shoot one’s self. The sample isn’t what brought my attention to the suicidal tones within the song, but it was the line, “I’m a nicotine soldier, say, ‘Drinkin’ cyanide’” (Genius). Cyanide is commonly used as a suicide device. The second line that compelled me to investigate further was a line where Ski states that he’s known to be a martyr, someone who dies for their religion. Considering his name, Ski Mask the Slump God is not very religious. In fact, he has at least one satanic line in each of his. The theme of death persists throughout the track, mixed with his usual cartoon references, dick jokes, and complex similes.
Ski Mask has had a rocky path to fame. Coming out of prison, his friend being locked up as soon as they achieve fame, and then murdered just as they were making up after a small beef. While his songs have remained rather cheerful, this song should serve as a reminder to individuals that he is a human being, with flaws. Will he kill himself? Probably not. Will he smoke himself to death? Time will tell. Regardless of how deep his voice becomes, his music will remain dope as hell.
