Are You Ready
A.D.M. Lyrics

Calling, calling the ATL south and the whole entire world
Addressing the entire world and calling for attention from every corner, including the southern US city of Atlanta (ATL).

Get up, get into it involved
Urging the audience to take action and become actively involved.

Looks like a job for the Goodie Mob, lets work
Acknowledging the challenging nature of the situation and expressing determination to get to work, with the Goodie Mob being ready and equipped for the job.

Standing in the middle of harms way
Acknowledging the danger and risks associated with being present in the midst of conflict and brutality.

Where all of the guns play
Describing the violent environment where firearms are frequently used.

No father home, affects the Feng Shui
Commenting on the negative effects of growing up without a father figure in the family and how it can impact the overall balance and harmony of the household ('Feng Shui').

The pastor prays for Harambe
Referencing a well-publicized incident where a gorilla named Harambe was shot and killed at a zoo, commenting on how religious leaders may focus on incidents like this instead of more systemic issues.

Before every urbanite is underneath the ash like Pompeii
Using the analogy of the destruction of Pompeii to comment on the looming danger and potential for destruction that many urban communities face.

Look what they've done to us far beyond music
Expressing frustration and outrage at systemic oppression and injustice that extends beyond the world of music industry.

Jesus could've been John Lewis but I can't prove it
Using John Lewis, a prominent civil rights figure, as an example to illustrate how a figure like Jesus might have been treated in the current system but acknowledging that the comparison cannot be proven.

But I could be the conduit to reconnect you to it
Suggesting that even though historical figures cannot be brought back, the artist could serve as a means to rekindle and remember their legacy.

And we are the ones that people expect to do it
Acknowledging the expectations placed on artists to speak out on issues and inspire people to take action.

Back to business, and being black's the business
Returning to the main theme of the song, that being black in America is inherently political and woven into economic systems.

And anything other than that is sacrilegious
Suggesting that not acknowledging or accepting the political nature of being black is a betrayal or blasphemy.

You see I rap for spitters and clap back for niggas
Describing a dual role as an artist who creates complex and thoughtful works, while also responding with force and confidence to those who would oppose or silence them.

'Til the moment that the mothership comes back to get us
Referencing the sci-fi trope of an extra-terrestrial 'mothership' returning to rescue or save humanity and suggesting that a collective salvation may be necessary before real progress can be made.

Niggas ain't ready 'cause they minds ain't right
Asserting that black people may struggle to progress until they address internalized beliefs or attitudes that prevent them from succeeding or taking action.

They don't walk by faith man they walk by sight
Suggesting that people may prioritize evidence they can see or touch ('sight') over their abstract beliefs or sense of purpose ('faith').

They die by the knife 'cause they live by the sword
Using a biblical reference, explaining that those who resort to violence or aggression ('the sword') may suffer the consequences of harm or death from others ('the knife').

They don't give a damn about filling up the morgue
Commenting on how some may embrace the lifestyle of violence and criminality without thinking about the likely outcome of death or imprisonment.

Ready for whatever program for destruction
Suggesting that some people may be resigned to a violent or destructive fate and don't care about the possible negative outcomes.

Hard head, stiff neck, won't learn instruction
Using a biblical reference to describe those who are stubborn and resistive to guidance or direction.

Can't be a king with your pants on the ground
Arguing that those who present themselves poorly or without dignity cannot hope to achieve leadership or authority.

Can't be a queen trapping ass round town
Asserting that women who indulge in promiscuous behaviors or live life without direction cannot hope to achieve greatness or respect.

You looking for love in all the wrong places
Advising that those who seek fulfillment or happiness in unhealthy or misguided ways will ultimately be disappointed.

Thirteen colonies founded by Masons
Pointing out the fact that the original American colonies were established by an organization known for secrecy and exclusivity, suggesting an underlying ideological power dynamic.

Chasing nightmares disguised as wet dreams
Using a clever play on words, suggesting that people may pursue or prioritize certain desires or goals without fully understanding the potential negative consequences.

Don't hold your breath waiting on freedom to ring
Acknowledging the cynicism or frustration that people may feel waiting for social change or progress to be made.

You want reparations from your slave master
Highlighting the persistent desire for financial compensation for the immense harm and exploitation caused by the historical practice of slavery.

Everything good until you want to buy Alaska
Criticizing the arbitrary nature of what causes people or society to feel protective or resistant to certain forms of advocacy or change.

Asking 'bout all the gold that they stole
Pointing out the historical legacy of exploitation and theft that has been perpetrated against black people, particularly concerning the acquisition and hoarding of resources like gold.

How dare you put a price tag on my black soul
Asserting that those who perpetrate harm or exploitation against black people cannot begin to comprehend or quantify the true value and dignity of their personhood.

On top of the game, deliver the same
Describing a consistent level of excellence and vision.

Forever the shame is simple and plain
Commenting on the ongoing sense of shame or degradation that some black people may feel due to external forces beyond their control.

Like Mary to Jane, avoiding the pain
Referencing the famous novel 'Mary Jane' (which deals with the life of a drug addict) to highlight the importance of avoiding harmful or painful situations in life.

Like yin to yang, and Jordan to Hanes
Using a metaphor to describe a natural, complementary energy or balance, comparing it to a famous basketball player and his endorsement deal.

She giving me brains and teaching me claim
Using a double entendre to describe a romantic situation where the partner is both intellectually stimulating and teaches important lessons.

The victory aim, the pistol it pop,
Describing the desire for a successful outcome, with the metaphor of a gunshot emphasizing the potential for violence and the high stakes of the situation.

The enemy drops, He crooked like cops
Continuing the gun metaphor, describing a satisfying outcome where the 'enemy' is defeated or neutralized, likening them to corrupt law enforcement.

Fraternity click, these people too slick
Commenting on the strong bonds and loyalty within social organizations and noting how others may attempt to undermine or resist them.

A daddy like Trick, I hustle don't quit
Referencing the rapper Trick Daddy and expressing a strong work ethic, defining success in terms of perseverance and dedication.

The intricate shit, My brothers are rich
Describing the complex and nuanced nature of success and wealth, highlighting the importance of support and camaraderie among black men.

We give and we get, Better with time
Highlighting the importance of collaboration and mutual support, and the notion that successful relationships and situations improve over time.

Keeping the shine, Fist in the air, ain't giving a care
Emphasizing the importance of staying committed and resilient, with the metaphor of shining and the raised fist representing defiance and determination.

My people are dying, And mamas are crying
Acknowledging the real and painful impact of systemic violence and poverty on black communities, and recognizing the emotional weight and toll on mothers and other caregivers.

Standing in line, My youngins are trying
Describing the sense of hope and effort among young people, even in the face of difficult and oppressive circumstances.

Going to work pushing the pine
Using a metaphor to describe the life of a basketball player (pushing the ball down the court), to reflect the idea of striving and exerting effort toward a goal.

Focused and poised, Bringing the noise
Describing an attitude of preparedness and determination, likening it to a team charging onto a field with energy and purpose.

Calling my boys, Never avoid
Asserting the importance of camaraderie and loyalty, and the readiness to respond to emergent challenges or threats.

I'm training like Floyd, My ethic to work
Referencing the boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr., highlighting the intense preparation and commitment required to achieve success, and describing the value of a strong work ethic.

Your gonna get hurt, Got blood on my shirt
Warning others that they will face consequences or retaliation for opposing the singer, with the image of blood on a shirt representing violent conflict.

A captain like Kurt, From second to first
Alluding to the competitive nature of athletics, and describing a desire to move from a lower rank to a position of greater authority and influence.

Chuck D, Public Enemy ready
Referencing the famous rap group Public Enemy and its founder Chuck D, acknowledging their role as pioneers in socially conscious rap music.

Close the curtain, lights out, roll the credits, come on
Using a filmmaking metaphor to suggest that the performance or game is over, and the participants can now rest or retire from the spotlight.