Run the Jewels - "Lie, Cheat, Steal" Control, Power, and Entertainment

The song “Lie, Cheat, Steal” by Run the Jewels is an unapologetic anthem exposing the corrupt tendencies of those who hold power—those who craft the rules, manipulate systems, and distort narratives to maintain their dominance. Beneath the driving beats and explosive lyrics, a darker undercurrent hints at deeper forces at play, forces which shape the very fabric of society, culture, and even entertainment.

Entertainment and Influence

It’s clear that entertainment has always been more than just spectacle. There’s a strategic element involved. The entertainment industry, a massive cog in the machinery of public influence, can often serve as a platform for agendas that stretch far beyond simple consumerism or art. And much like how “Lie, Cheat, Steal” points out the moral decay within systems of power, we can’t ignore the reality that some unseen hands might be involved in guiding the direction of cultural tides.

Power Structures

The relationship between power structures and entertainment has often been less about direct control and more about subtle influence. Intelligence agencies, without being named outright, might see an opportunity in entertainment: an influential tool to shape public perception, disseminate ideologies, and, as the song suggests, “lie, cheat, and steal” the public’s attention under the guise of harmless content. Entertainment may seem benign, but consider the patterns—recurring themes, strategic messaging, and cyclical narratives that reinforce a specific view of the world. It’s all a bit too choreographed to dismiss as mere coincidence.

The Subtext

When Killer Mike and El-P chant the chorus, it’s easy to envision the subtext: how systems built on deception manipulate from the shadows. A perfect metaphor for those behind the scenes of popular culture. Could intelligence agencies, through the vehicle of entertainment, be engaging in soft influence campaigns? Not through overt interference, but through the subtle shaping of what we view, listen to, and ultimately come to believe?

Call to Vigilance

Much like the American spirit of rebellion and independence, “Lie, Cheat, Steal” questions authority while embodying resistance. It serves as a call to vigilance, encouraging listeners to be aware of the unseen forces—those that engineer not just our political realities, but also the entertainment we consume.

Conclusion

As the song winds down, the message becomes clear: truth is subjective when the stewards of culture and power operate in the shadows. This is more than just music. It’s a wake-up call to question who really controls what we see, hear, and believe. Entertainment is no exception—it too can be a battleground for influence, where intelligence meets artistry, and the game is being played on multiple levels.