I can’t lie… this song might be my favorite one that I have reviewed thus far. This Liberian rapper, who is based in Philly, is lowkey, tough. He goes by Mdot 59, and the style of his music is consistent with the drill-style hip- hop out of the East. New York and Chicago (my hometown) love that drill type of vibe, and maybe that is why it appeals to me.
If you need a hype song to work out to, “Ofc He Hate Us” will get you right. Mdot 59 is Philly-based and sounds like it, but I can definitely hear a little bit of Liberian in his voice. Maybe it’s just me.
The song itself is on brand with the drill style. It is the unapologetic reflection on identity and rivalry. There is pride here, and there is competition. The song leans toward a confrontational message with his “opps”. Mdot 59 naturally puts himself and his crew on a pedestal and says his “opps” are looking in. Beneath the surface is a deeper emphasis on belonging. Who is the “us”? Which crew is the most loyal? Which one is better? That’s the overall message of most drill music, truthfully.
The title suggests that hate, a strong motivation, is not accidental. It is bred and inevitable when there are these rivalries, and sometimes it isn’t even personal. It’s collective hate, therefore, of course, he hates us.
Mdot 59 demonstrates “confidence” as some people know it. Performative masculinity comes into play here in a unique way. Some people see confidence as toting guns and standing your ground in these rivalries. Confidence is expressed through dominance, dismissiveness, and a refusal to show vulnerability. The idea of “he hates us” becomes less about individuality and more about proving superiority.
No matter the message that you take away, I highly recommend this song, especially if you’re looking for a good drill vibe.