His mother was an English literature professor from Jamaica. His father was a Ph.D. Marxist writer, active in the Zimbabwe War of Liberation and then a member of the government in Zimbabwe. In 1980, the family moved to Zimbabwe. After the death of Woods' father, they returned to the United States in 1989. Woods briefly attended Howard University before getting involved in New York City's hip-hop scene. He started making music in the late 1990s. He wrote his "first real rhyme" at a laundromat in Kennebunk, Maine in 1997.
Billy Woods released his debut solo album, Camouflage, on his record label Backwoodz Studioz in 2003. In 2012, he released History Will Absolve Me. In 2013, he released Dour Candy, which was entirely produced by Blockhead. In 2017, he released Known Unknowns. It was included on Rolling Stone's "15 Great Albums You Probably Didn't Hear in 2017" list. In 2019, he released a collaborative album with producer Kenny Segal, titled Hiding Places, and a solo album, Terror Management. 2020 brought Brass, a collaborative album with Moor Mother. Woods released Aethiopes and Church in 2022. On May 5th 2023 Woods released Maps , second collaborative album with producer Kenny Segal.
Good Night
Billy Woods Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Told the bartender "don't let
My glass empty"
That Rhodes Fender, volume on twenty
Break loud down, on the table cloth
If it's the last night, fuck it, going hard
No if, ands, fam, every spliff three grams
Raise my hands, watch her do her thing
I don't dance, don't dance, I don't dance
Fuck last call, put my song on
Fuck last call, put my song on
Fuck last call, put my song on
Fuck last call, put my song on
Fuck last call, put my song on
Fuck last call, put my song on
Fuck last call, put my song on
Fuck last call, put my song on
No tears, we had a hell of a run
No fear, my forefinger and thumb
Strum violins sommelier said to say when
Grin, when, lights dim, watch her spin
Oysters and gin
No check, tonight your money don't spend
Familiar friends
Some faces I ain't expect to see again
No questions, glad you made the session
To your health, shots smooth as hell
She's still dancing by herself
Eyes closed, sways to the beat
And you know mebut tonight?
I just might, I just might, I just might
Fuck last call, put my song on
Fuck last call, put my song on
Fuck last call, put my song on
Fuck last call, put my song on
Fuck last call, put my song on
Fuck last call, put my song on
Fuck last call, put my song on
Fuck last call, put my song on
Fuck last call, put my song on
Fuck last call, put my song on
In these lyrics, Billy Woods describes a night where he is determined to have a good time and not hold anything back. He starts by expressing his intentions to enjoy the night to the fullest, telling the bartender not to let his drink go empty. The mention of the Rhodes Fender and turning up the volume to the maximum suggests a desire for loud and intense music to set the mood. He doesn't want to leave any room for doubt - he's going all out, no matter the consequences. He emphasizes his commitment to this mindset by saying that he smokes every joint with three grams of weed, making it clear that he's not taking any shortcuts.
Despite his dedication to having a good time, he makes it clear that he doesn't dance. This could be interpreted in a couple of ways. It could imply that he prefers to observe and enjoy the energy of others on the dance floor rather than actively participating himself. Alternatively, it may suggest a reluctance to fully let go and lose control, choosing instead to maintain a certain level of restraint. Whatever the reason, he states this multiple times, reinforcing his position.
The phrase "fuck last call, put my song on" is repeated throughout the lyrics, indicating Billy Woods's desire to extend the night and continue the enjoyment. By requesting to hear his song, he is asserting his control over the atmosphere and refusing to adhere to societal norms and constraints. He wants to keep the party going, even if it means going against what is expected.
As the night progresses, the lyrics take on a slightly more reflective tone. He mentions the absence of tears and fear, indicating a sense of contentment and confidence. The line "my forefinger and thumb strum violins" conveys a smooth and effortless motion, perhaps symbolizing his ability to navigate through the night with ease. The references to oysters and gin evoke images of luxury and indulgence, further highlighting the lavishness of the occasion.
Throughout the lyrics, there is a sense of reunion and connection with old friends and acquaintances, unexpected encounters that bring back memories. Billy Woods expresses gratitude for their presence, stating that he's glad they made it to the gathering. As the night progresses, he observes a woman dancing by herself, closed eyes swaying to the beat. This image possibly represents freedom, liberation, and individual expression. It contrasts with his statement earlier about not dancing, suggesting that tonight he might be willing to let loose and join in.
In conclusion, these lyrics depict a night of unabashed enjoyment and defiance of societal norms. Billy Woods seeks to have a good time, refusing to let the night end and requesting his song to keep the atmosphere alive. There is a reflection on past experiences and the presence of unexpected faces, creating an atmosphere of nostalgia and appreciation. While he may not typically dance, there is a suggestion that tonight could be different, as he contemplates the possibility of joining the woman dancing alone.
Line by Line Meaning
It's a good night, I won't go gently
Tonight is a memorable and enjoyable evening, and I won't let it pass by quietly or without leaving a mark.
Told the bartender "don't let My glass empty"
I instructed the bartender to keep my glass filled throughout the night, ensuring that I never run out of drinks.
That Rhodes Fender, volume on twenty
I turned up the volume to the maximum on the Rhodes Fender, a musical instrument I am playing, creating a loud and energetic sound.
Break loud down, on the table cloth
I let the powerful music break through and resonate loudly in the atmosphere, even reaching the tablecloth.
If it's the last night, fuck it, going hard
If this happens to be the final night or occasion, I'm determined to make the most of it and party with great intensity.
No if, ands, fam, every spliff three grams
Without any hesitation or conditions, I'm enjoying every moment alongside my friends, with each rolled cigarette containing three grams of substance.
Raise my hands, watch her do her thing
I raise my hands in admiration and excitement as I observe a woman showcasing her skills and talents.
But I don't dance
However, I personally choose not to dance despite the lively atmosphere and music.
Fuck last call, put my song on
Disregarding the call for the last order or closing time, I insist on playing my preferred song instead.
No tears, we had a hell of a run
There is no need for sadness or crying because we had an incredible and unforgettable journey or experience together.
No fear, my forefinger and thumb
I confidently hold onto my forefinger and thumb, symbolizing bravery and courage.
Strum violins sommelier said to say when
As the violins play their melodious tunes, the sommelier advises me on the perfect time to strum them, creating a harmonious atmosphere.
Grin, when, lights dim, watch her spin
With a smile on my face, I anticipate the moment when the lights dim, and I witness a woman gracefully twirling and spinning.
Oysters and gin
Enjoying the combination of oysters and gin, indulging in the pleasures of fine and luxurious dining.
No check, tonight your money don't spend
There is no need to worry about payment or expenses tonight, as your money is not required to cover any expenses.
Familiar friends
Surrounded by close and familiar friends, creating a sense of comfort and camaraderie.
Some faces I ain't expect to see again
Encountering certain individuals whom I didn't anticipate seeing again, pleasantly surprised by their presence.
No questions, glad you made the session
Without inquiring or questioning, I express my happiness and appreciation for someone attending the gathering or event.
To your health, shots smooth as hell
Raising a toast to one's well-being and enjoying the incredibly smooth shots of alcohol.
She's still dancing by herself
Observing a woman who continues to dance and move to the rhythm, enjoying her own company.
Eyes closed, sways to the beat
With closed eyes, she elegantly moves her body in sync with the music's rhythm and tempo.
And you know me but tonight? I just might, I just might, I just might
Although you may have an understanding of my usual behavior, tonight I might surprise you by potentially engaging in activities or actions that deviate from my norm.
Fuck last call, put my song on
Once again, I disregard the announcement to conclude the evening and insist on playing my preferred song instead.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
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