Lithonia Lyrics

“Cody LaRae” a character from Gambino’s upcoming movie “Bando Stone & the New World”.

Lithonia by Childish Gambino

"Lithonia," a song by Childish Gambino, is the lead single from the upcoming and final album/soundtrack "Bando Stone & The New World." The track, released on July 2, 2024, blends emotional pop-rock elements and explores themes of disillusionment, existential reflection, and societal neglect.

1. Producers: Childish Gambino, Ludwig Göransson, Michael Uzowuru, Max Martin
2. Writers: Childish Gambino, Riley Mackin, Max Martin, Ludwig Göransson, Michael Uzowuru
3. Assistant Engineer: Matheus Braz
4. Mastering Engineer: Mike Bozzi
5. Recording Engineer: Riley Mackin, Brittney Orinda
6. Programmer: Riley Mackin
7. Arranger: Max Martin, Michael Uzowuru
8. Keyboards: Ludwig Göransson
9. Guitar: Ludwig Göransson
10. Vocals: Donald Glover
11. Drums: Donald Glover
12. Label: mcDJ Recording, Wolf + Rothstein, RCA Records, Liberator Music
13. Phonographic Copyright ℗: mcDJ Recording, Sony Music Entertainment, RCA Records, Liberator Music
14. Copyright ©: mcDJ Recording, RCA Records, Sony Music Entertainment, Liberator Music
15. Mixing Engineer: Stuart White
16. Release Date: July 2, 2024

Annotations and Meaning.

[Chorus]

The chorus, sung by Cody LaRae, reveals a profound sense of disenchantment and resignation. The character discovers that his efforts and achievements are largely unnoticed and unappreciated, encapsulated in the repeated line "nobody gives a fuck." This reflects a broader commentary on societal indifference and the emotional toll of feeling unrecognized.

[Verse]

The verse conveys Cody's feelings of liberation and over-medication, suggesting a sense of disillusionment with life's perceived expectations. He expresses a desire to break free from these constraints, questioning the authenticity and value of his experiences. The line "I've been gone so long, don't you know that this is the moment?" signifies a critical point of self-realization and change.

[Bridge]

In the bridge, Cody addresses Lithonia directly, expressing a sense of betrayal and loss. The lines "My sweet Lithonia, what have you done? These are your children, I am your son" imply a personal connection to the place, highlighting a sense of abandonment and disappointment with the community or environment that shaped him.

[Cultural and Geographical Context]

The song's title, "Lithonia," references a city in Georgia near Stone Mountain, where Donald Glover (Childish Gambino) grew up. The name means "city/town of stone," aligning with the film and album's title, "Bando Stone & The New World." This connection underscores the thematic ties to Glover's roots and the personal narratives woven into the track.

[Social Media Promotion]

Childish Gambino began teasing "Lithonia" on May 12 by tweeting the lyrics "nobody gives a fuck." This phrase was subsequently used across various social media platforms, including his bio, to build anticipation for the song's release. Later in the month, he shared a snippet on TikTok, further heightening excitement for the upcoming album.