“Diet Coke” by Pusha T talks about his success in the drug game. According to Pusha T his success has surpassed other “imaginary players.” He mentions yesterday’s prices not being the same as today’s and how the number on his jersey is the quote price. He is all about showing his dominance in the market. The “master recipes” he mentions refer to amateur drug recipes. The “stove lights” refers to the work place of these amateur drug dealers.
The lyrics “You ordered Diet Coke, that’s a joke, right?” are a reference to those who are not serious players in the game and are not willing to put in the work required to be successful. He’s saying they ordered the equivalent of a watered-down version of the real thing and it’s not going to cut it.
Pusha T also mentions how his workers are compensated so they don’t strike, and how his success is reflected in the fact that he’s able to see green like Don Bishop, a reference to financial success. The line “The ones you trust don’t change like them chains you tuck” is a warning to others that those they trust may not be trustworthy.
The rapper also mentions his wealth and the material things he has, including Porsches, horses, and jewelry, showing that he’s come a long way from his days in the drug game. He compares his success to that of Jay-Z and Puff Daddy and boasts about his ability to drive luxury cars like the Cullinan even on rough roads.
In the second half of the song, Pusha T reflects on the crack era, which he refers to as a “Black era,” and how many of those who were involved in it are still standing. He also mentions his own success and how he’s been lucky to make it through.
Overall, “Diet Coke” is a celebration of Pusha T’s success in the drug game and his rise to financial and material success. He’s showing that he’s the real deal, not just an “imaginary player,” and that he’s made it to the top through hard work and determination.