Lil Uzi Vert - The Way Life Goes Remix (feat. Nicki Minaj) -
Critical reception was mixed but generally intrigued by the pairing. Some critics felt Minaj’s combative energy created a "symbolic dissonance" with Uzi’s sensitive tone. Others praised the synergy, viewing Minaj as a stabilizer who completed the track’s melodic appeal with a traditional rap verse. The music video, directed by DAPS and released in December 2017, further emphasized this contrast, featuring Minaj in a luxury cabin while Uzi remained bound to a tree in a dark forest.
Watch the official music video for 'The Way Life Goes Remix' to see the visual contrast between Uzi and Minaj's styles: Lil Uzi Vert - The Way Life Goes Remix (Feat. Nicki Minaj)
: Minaj provides a contrast. Her opening verse is characterized by braggadocio, asserting her longevity and status in the industry. However, her outro shifts back to the song’s emotional roots, where she softly croons about giving a "cold shoulder" to a former flame. Critical and Commercial Impact Critical reception was mixed but generally intrigued by
The core of "The Way Life Goes" is an anthem for those enduring "hard times". The music video, directed by DAPS and released
The collaboration was a commercial success, reaching #24 on the Billboard Hot 100. By February 2024, the track was recognized as having reached #14 on both Rap and Rhythmic Airplay charts. It has since been certified 4x Platinum by the RIAA.
The track is notable for its melodic foundation, sampling the 2015 song "Landslide" by British indie-pop duo Oh Wonder. The remix adds Minaj’s signature stylistic flair, bookending Uzi’s verses with a boastful opening rap and a more vulnerable, melodic outro. Lyrical Themes and Meaning