In late 1997, Solesides became Quannum Projects and in 1999 Blackalicious released the A2G EP, which served as a precursor to their debut full length album, Nia, which was released the following year. This was followed by a major label contract with MCA Records and the release of the critically acclaimed album Blazing Arrow in 2002.
In May 2004 Gift of Gab released his first solo album, 4th Dimensional Rocketships Going Up, but he assured fans that Blackalicious was alive and well.
A third full length, entitled The Craft, was released on Epitaph Records imprint ANTI- on September 27, 2005.
Introduction: Bow And Fire
Blackalicious Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
All around the universe
You know as well as I do the things I change
Changing, changing
The day will come, warning, warning
I got my arrow, I got my bow
I got my fire and I'm walking through the darkness
Got my arrow
The forces trying, trying, tired
Then the wind is blowing harder
But my power comes from higher
So seek arrow
I got my bow, I got my fire
And I'm walking through the darkness
Slowly on a tight rope wire
Got my
Arrow
The introduction to Blackalicious's song "Introduction: Bow and Fire" starts with an announcement that sets the tone for the rest of the lyrics to come. The lead singer directly addresses "ladies and gents, soul music lovers everywhere" and emphasizes how everything is in a constant state of change. The singer declares that the day will come, and we should take heed of this warning. Then the singer reveals that he has his arrow, bow, and fire, and he is ready to take on the forces that are trying to hold him back. He walks through the darkness, slowly and steadily, like walking on a tightrope wire. This is a metaphor that suggests that the path to success is not always straightforward and can be precarious, but with the right mindset and tools, one can make their way through it.
The lyrics are inspiring and encourage the listener to be brave and trust in their own power despite the challenges they face. The idea of having the arrow, bow, and fire is a metaphorical representation of personal power and determination. With fire comes the passion to pursue a goal, and the arrow and bow come as a tool to protect and guide oneself along the journey. The overall message behind the lyrics highlights the importance of self-reliance and self-confidence. It suggests that even though the world may be constantly changing, we can still direct our own path to success using our own inner strengths and talents.
Line by Line Meaning
Ladies and gents, soul music lovers everywhere
Greetings to those who appreciate soul music, regardless of their location or gender.
All around the universe
This message is intended for all people in the known universe.
You know as well as I do the things I change
You are aware that change is inevitable for me.
Changing, changing
The process of change is in constant motion.
The day will come, warning, warning
Be warned that a significant day in my life is approaching.
I got my arrow, I got my bow
I possess the necessary tools to hit my target.
I got my fire and I'm walking through the darkness
I have the passion and drive to persevere through difficult times.
Slowly on a tight rope wire
I am taking cautious and steady steps forward, as if walking on a tightrope.
Got my arrow
I am confident in my aim and ability to achieve my goals.
The forces trying, trying, tired
I am facing challenges from opposing forces that are beginning to weaken.
Then the wind is blowing harder
Nevertheless, external factors are growing stronger and more unpredictable.
But my power comes from higher
I possess an inner strength that is derived from a higher power or force.
So seek arrow
Therefore, direct your focus towards my intended target.
I got my bow, I got my fire
Once again, I am emphasizing my preparedness and determination.
And I'm walking through the darkness
I am navigating through difficult and uncertain times.
Slowly on a tight rope wire
In a calculated and cautious manner, I am making progress.
Got my arrow
I am still confident in my ability to reach my intended target.
Lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: XAVIER LORENZO MOSLEY, TIMOTHY JEROME PARKER
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind