Meek Mill’s highly anticipated collaboration with Fridayy, “Proud of Me,” is rapidly gaining acclaim, with many considering it one of the strongest contenders for Hip-Hop’s Verse of the Year 2025. The song, which dropped recently, has sparked emotional reactions from fans and rap peers alike, thanks to Meek’s powerful verse that resonates with authenticity, resilience, and self-empowerment.
Among those praising the track is Louisiana rapper Boosie Badazz, who took to social media over the weekend to express how the song made him reflect on the loss of his late father, Torrence Hatch Sr. “Meek Mill u made me think bout pops with dat mf #realmusic I miss my dad thug in peace #ivyrayhatch,” Boosie wrote. The emotional response from Boosie highlights just how deeply Meek Mill’s words cut, with the rapper touching on themes of perseverance and personal growth that echo Boosie’s own experiences with loss.
Boosie has often spoken about his father’s death in 1997 due to complications from drug addiction. In his biopic, the Louisiana rapper reenacted the pain of losing his father, a tragedy that shaped both his life and his music. Despite the hardships, Boosie credits his late father for instilling qualities of resilience and ambition that have helped him navigate his tumultuous upbringing in Baton Rouge. So, when Meek’s verse in “Proud of Me” invoked similar sentiments of overcoming adversity, it was no surprise that it struck such a deep chord with Boosie.
In the song itself, Meek Mill delivers a verse that speaks to his evolution, from a young man struggling to make it out of poverty to a successful figure who has managed to maintain his integrity despite the challenges fame brings. His lyrics are raw and reflective, touching on themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the pressures that come with achieving success. Meek speaks to the moments when others doubted him, contrasting that skepticism with his undeniable rise to wealth and influence.
One of the most impactful aspects of Meek’s verse is its sense of self-validation. He emphasizes that his success isn’t solely about material wealth or status but about proving to himself—and to the world—that he was always destined to rise above adversity. His delivery is marked by a sense of urgency and passion, infusing the song with a triumphant energy that makes it feel like a declaration of independence. Meek’s refusal to seek validation from others, opting instead to take pride in his own growth, is a message of empowerment that resonates with listeners from all walks of life.
The emotional weight of the song, coupled with its powerful message, has propelled “Proud of Me” into the spotlight. It’s clear that Meek Mill has crafted a verse that not only reflects his personal journey but also serves as motivation for anyone striving to overcome their own struggles. His blend of authenticity, vulnerability, and strength has earned him the admiration of fans and peers, with many now calling his verse the best in hip-hop for 2025.
As more listeners and artists alike continue to praise the track, it’s clear that “Proud of Me” is more than just a song—it’s a movement, encapsulating the very essence of perseverance and self-worth that defines Meek Mill’s career.
