Music, it is used as art, and like other art forms it has a message hidden in the lyrics and

the music video. The song that will be analyzed is a rap song that revolves around the idea of
when I grow up. Using Marxist lenses, the song can show how it emphasizes certain repressive
ideologies. NF’s (Nathan Feuerstein) song “When I Grow Up” uses catchy beats and rhythmic
verses to fantasize of the American dream. Depicting in the song and music video how the
repressive ideology of the American dream can keep the masses content with the subservient life.
The music video for “When I Grow Up” starts off with a group of kids saying what they
would like to be when they grow up all having hopeful dreams, including NF saying he would
want to be a rapper. The song starts showing NF on a garbage truck doing manual labor, while
doing so he is singing about ridiculous dream. “I know this prolly isn't really realistic, and
honestly, I might not ever make a difference, but that don't make a difference, I'ma have to risk
it”. The artist keeps repeating “When I Grow Up” saying how they will eventually reach their
dreams of paying the bills rapping of how they feel. With each verse that the rapper sings his job
would change in the music video, until the end where the chorus repeats again and he’s finally in
front of a sold-out stadium. Accomplishing his goal of the American Dream.
This idea of the American Dream is what Marxist criticism considers a repressive
ideology. These ideologies prevent the proletariat to be bothered with their form of living,
because they are forced to believe that if certain things happen it is their fault and not fault of the
economic system. “The American dream… financial success is simply the product of initiative
and hard work” (Tyson 54). The idea surrounding Marxism and these repressive ideologies all
fall to the idea of socioeconomic imbalances. That the middle class have no control while upper
class dictate and control how money is spent and distributed. While they have control, they are
able to promote whatever they please, such ideas being the American Dream.
This problem remains present in the minority groups throughout America. The idea of the
American dream is one that has been passed on for generations, the idea is known worldwide.
However, those looking to make the risk are shown that pay out isn’t as glorious as believed.
This fantasy was made up by those people who came to the United States with slaves and money,
being given what ever their heart desires. Fantasizing the idea of hard work to others to bring in
people and more revenue.