After his parents, a Muslim father from Oyo State, Nigeria and a Christian mother from the United States, separated in his early teenage years, Chamillionaire settled into a notoriously dangerous inner-city neighborhood in North Houston called Acres Homes, which he elaborated upon during an interview with Houston's 104.9 KPTY on October 3. Rap and other forms of secular music, which his parents had highly opposed in their household, became very appealing to the young Hakeem Seriki. Inspired by local rap acts such as The Geto Boys, 8 Ball & MJG, and UGK, as well as other national acts such as N.W.A. and Public Enemy, Chamillionaire began to compose his own ponies.
At a young age, Chamillionaire along with fellow rap music artist and childhood friend Paul Wall, had decided to make music their careers. One day while promoting themselves at a Texas event, Paul Wall and Chamillionaire ran into Michael 5000 Watts, a popular mixtape DJ from the Northside. After proposing to do promotions for Watts' company, the Swishahouse, Chamillionaire and Paul Wall came to Watts' studio and convinced Watts to allow them freestyle on an intro to Watts' radio show on Houston’s 97.9 The Box. Watts, who himself was convinced to rap on the record, enjoyed the freestyle so much that he put the verses on one of his mixtapes. The freestyle became so popular in the streets that Chamillionaire and Paul Wall became regular staples on Houston's mixtape circuit, appeared on several of Watts' mixtapes, and became permanent members of Swishahouse.
Although Paul Wall and Chamillionaire were making much noise in the streets by rapping on Watts' mixtapes, they, along with several other members of the Swishahouse, became frustrated with the lack of money they were receiving from the mixtapes. After fellow member Slim Thug left the label, Chamillionaire and Paul Wall followed and started their own mixtape group known as The Color Changin' Click. Each successive mixtape released by The Color Changin' Click led to more business opportunities; the most notable of which being a contract to do a full album for Paid in Full Records. A one album contract was then negotiated between the Color Changin' Click and Paid in Full's label head, DJ Madd Hatta from 97.9 The Box, and the CCC's first album, Get Ya Mind Correct, would go on to sell over 100,000 copies.
The sale of all these albums without the backing of a major deal caught the attention of several major labels wanting to sign Chamillionaire and Paul. Chamillionaire and his labelmates decided to remain independent, however, until the right deal came along. While working on his second album with the Color Changin' Click, Chamillionaire began to have creative differences with Paul Wall, so much so that it was decided that the two emcees should each release solo albums that would be packaged together. When Chamillionaire became dissatisfied with how things were being resolved, he left Paid in Full and his almost complete album after fulfilling his contractual obligations to focus on promoting his mixtape label Chamillitary instead. As a kid, Chamillionaire was a big fan of MANKind, also known as Big June.
Chamillionaire's Myspace
This kid from Houston, Texas has some nerve. That's what came to mind as you watched an MTV special in early 2005 showcasing H-Town's commercial and artistic re-emergence on the rap scene. Following his brazen freestyle, the focused and much-heralded MC known as Chamillionaire faced a national audience and launched a swagger-filled proclamation on camera: "I'm the truth from Texas..." While such boasting may seem par-for-the-course in the prideful 25-year-plus history of hip-hop, the latter ambitious statement aptly describes Chamillionaire. It's the reason why he earned the lofty alias "The Mixtape Messiah," a title Cham was crowned after independently selling over 100,000 copies of the Get Ya Mind Correct album, and by selling thousands of his numerous mix tapes. It's why the former member of Houston's legendary mix-tape power Swisha House garnered coverage in such major hip-hop publications as Source and XXL without the backing of a major deal. When the Houston lyricist set off a major label bidding war to distribute his Chamillitary Records, it became abundantly clear throughout the 'hood and the music industry Chamillionaire is indeed the truth.
With his major-label debut The Sound Of Revenge set for release on Universal Records, Chamillionaire is poised to take his place among Houston's current hip-hop elite, including the new generation of rhyme-spitters such as Lil' Flip, Slim Thug, Mike Jones and Paul Wall, as well respected vets UGK and Scarface. "You call out a lot of rappers and ask them why they are the best and they are going to tell you everything but the music," Cham laughs. "They will tell you that they are the best because they have some nice rims, a chain, and a mansion." He then adds in a straight-no-chaser tone, "You've heard all the hype about Chamillionaire; that he's sick with the lyrics, sings hooks, and represents the streets and the clubs. But I just want to come as close as possible to living up to my reputation."
Chamillionaire recruits an impressive list of talent on his debut effort, including Lil' Flip, Bun B, Scarface, and Krayzie Bone, as well as in-demand producers Scott Storch (50 Cent), Mannie Fresh (Lil' Wayne, Baby, Juvenile) and Cool & Dre (The Game). But, it's his work with Atlanta studio kings The Beat Bullies (1Big Boi/OutKast) that sets the tone for much of The Sound Of Revenge's diverse platform. "They understand me," Cham says of the in-house producers. "There are a lot of producers that have dope beats, but they don't know me as an artist. [The Beat Bullies] being from Atlanta, can take it to the strip clubs, the streets and to the radio."
The name Chamillionaire represents the unique style that defines the talented urban artist, and his ability to change and adapt on the fly, forcing people to respect the true breadth of his talent. And just as this MC moniker exemplifies, Chamillionaire is anything but predictable and most certainly versatile. "Picture Perfect" featuring Bun B comes off as a lyrical nod to the classic 'hood swagger of UGK, while the Beat Bullies'-anchored "Radio Interruption" showcases Cham's prowess for walking the blurred line between street praise and mass appeal. The storytelling brilliance of "No Snitching" (Cool & Dre), finds Cham detailing the unwritten laws of 'hood politics. On the Scott Storch produced "Turn It Up," Cham tag-teams with freestyle king Lil' Flip as they spit over an infectious track that is Houston's answer to a summer club banger. And the soulful "Here Comes The Rain" finds Chamillionaire exploring the daily struggles of life with heartfelt lyricism and ghetto angst.
"It's a very personal song and the title says it all," Cham says of the revealing track. "In a person's life the rain symbolizes the struggles we all go through. Whether you are dealing with losing a loved one or your rent is due on the 1st, but it's the 3rd and you don't have it. I'm just talking about surviving the tough times."
Chamillionaire has definitely seen his share of struggles on his road to redemption. Born to a Muslim father and Christian mother, secular music was banned in his household. Chamillionaire was barely a teenager when he moved to a low-income neighborhood in the notorious North Side of Houston, following the separation of his parents. By the early '90s, however, rap rebels such as NWA, Public Enemy, as well as hometown heroes The Geto Boys, 8-Ball & MJG and UGK would inspire a young Hakeem to write his own rhymes.
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Chamillionaire's Myspace
Void In My Life )
Chamillionaire Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
When I look back at my life, I realize-realize something ain't right
I'm missing you Lord, in my life make it right
I got something to decide, just wanna make-wanna make everything right
Cause there's a huge void, a huge void in my life make it right
I'm staring up at the Pope, it soak it up while he spoke it
Mesmerized and repeated, like he the author that wrote it
So waiting for death to approach this, take the time to say no sis
I don't hate ya, for having these little seeds
At seventeen, best believe they're a beautiful breeze
Of fresh air when there's nothing else, I usually need
Just a smile look at em now, hoping you just believe
And my broad been in place forever, I'm gone but I'm chasing cheddar
Been gone could of kept it going, with a poem or a basic letter
But naw I just hate to tell her, try hard but I didn't let her
The groupies get at your boy, but you're my Cinderella
Look girl we can make it better, but there's a gift and a curse
While you healing a nigga feelings, yours are usually hurt
It ain't amount of cash on Earth, to match what you really worth
Know your turf has been the church, that's where you put in work
And you put in overtime, because you know the sign
And most danger that I've been lately, rap is mo' than rhymes
But you still hold me down, I'ma do way mo' this time
Got some time that I need to manage, girl you know that's right
And that's speakin' like a true deacon, cause even to see you sleeping
That comfortably ain't enough for me, anything that you needing
I'll cease anything that squeaks, and cease any sink that leaks
Ain't nothing gon interrupt, your sleep deep into them sheets and peep
[Chorus]
How your father call the police, have your mama put in the jail
When the arguments always started, and ended up in a cell
Hard to it was the thought of this, ring that you use to wear
As I darted out the apartment, and pawned it to get the bail
Argument after argument, drama wasn't hitting well
Target it ain't no harm in it, smart so I didn't tell
God that it was the hardest, yeah life was a living hell
Spent part of it steady dodging it, charging off in the trails
Father say he a Muslim, your mama say she a Christian
The Bible or the Koran, which one would you be picking
The cards are in your palm, ain't really no use in tripping
Be true to the one you choose, ain't really no use in switching
Yeah they gon' have to be mad at us, choice is something I had to trust
Standing up when I had enough, for my blessings not adding up
Take too many things for granted, right after that metal bust
Somebody's life is missing, that's when the spirit grabbing us
[Chorus]
A religion is what you missing, someone tell me how can it
Make people panic, mention God and all the weak people vanish
Take God your woman and your family, even your own life for granted
Until you slanted on the planet, with your face in the granite
And I won't have it, I don't wanna see my coaching divided
So I decided to remind it, there's a choice and provide it
So put your ego to the side, soon as you standing beside it
Raise your right hand, and let the spirit know it's invited
Don't need to fight it, I just wanna make it right 'fore they bury me
Cause the truth is like therapy, plus my conscience is tearing me
Into pieces as deadly was dealt, was not even fair to me
To the soldiers that passed in the game, we missing you terribly
Thank my family especially, in my mind like telepathy
Staying humble is the recipe, keep my faith and he blessing me
I use the energy left in me, to make sure they respecting me
Walk the steps of my destiny, like I know he protecting me
I'm a leader, believe the people won't get to see less of me
No they won't see the death of me, or no police arresting me
I live life so successfully, and just show em the best of me
On another level mentally, this position was meant for me
[Chorus]
In "Void In My Life," Chamillionaire explores his personal struggles and the emptiness he feels in his life due to the absence of God. He reflects on his past experiences, including his relationships and run-ins with the law, and how they have affected him. He recognizes that his desire for money and success does not lead to true happiness and fulfillment, and that he needs something more to fill the void in his life.
Throughout the song, Chamillionaire is introspective and reflective. He talks about looking up at the Pope and being mesmerized by his words, which suggests that he is seeking direction and guidance. He also acknowledges the importance of his faith and the role it plays in his life. Chamillionaire tries to find meaning and purpose in his experiences and struggles, and ultimately acknowledges that he needs to make changes to find true happiness.
"Void In My Life" is a deeply personal and introspective song that explores Chamillionaire's innermost thoughts and emotions. It encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives and seek deeper meaning and purpose beyond material wealth and success.
Line by Line Meaning
When I look back at my life, I realize-realize something ain't right
Upon reflection, I realize something is missing in my life
I'm missing you Lord, in my life make it right
I am lacking a spiritual connection with my faith and ask for guidance
I got something to decide, just wanna make-wanna make everything right
I have a decision to make and want to fix everything that is wrong in my life
Cause there's a huge void, a huge void in my life make it right
This void in my life is significant and I seek to fill it with purpose
I'm staring up at the Pope, it soak it up while he spoke it
I am fascinated by the Pope and his words resonate with me
Mesmerized and repeated, like he the author that wrote it
The Pope's teachings have a profound impact on me, as if he wrote them himself
The broads are the ones I love, just don't wanna be the corporate
I enjoy the women in my life, but do not want to be tied down by the corporate world
So waiting for death to approach this, take the time to say no sis
Instead of waiting for death, I want to take the time to say 'no' to distractions
I don't hate ya, for having these little seeds
I don't resent you for having children
At seventeen, best believe they're a beautiful breeze
Having children at a young age can be challenging, but they are a blessing
Of fresh air when there's nothing else, I usually need
My children bring positivity and happiness to my life
Just a smile look at em now, hoping you just believe
Seeing my children smile brings hope and inspires belief in their future
And my broad been in place forever, I'm gone but I'm chasing cheddar
My significant other has been with me for a long time, but I am focused on making money
Been gone could of kept it going, with a poem or a basic letter
I could have kept my relationship going while I was away with a simple gesture
But naw I just hate to tell her, try hard but I didn't let her
I feel guilty for not keeping my relationship strong while I was away
The groupies get at your boy, but you're my Cinderella
I am tempted by other women, but my significant other is my true love
Look girl we can make it better, but there's a gift and a curse
We can fix our relationship, but there are challenges that come with it
While you healing a nigga feelings, yours are usually hurt
While you are helping me with my emotional baggage, yours are often neglected
It ain't amount of cash on Earth, to match what you really worth
No amount of money can compare to your value in my life
Know your turf has been the church, that's where you put in work
Your place of worship is the church and where you dedicate your time and energy
And you put in overtime, because you know the sign
You work hard in your faith because you understand its importance
And most danger that I've been lately, rap is mo' than rhymes
Rap music carries a risk beyond just the lyrics and rhyming
But you still hold me down, I'ma do way mo' this time
Despite the challenges I face, you support me and I will work even harder
Got some time that I need to manage, girl you know that's right
I need to prioritize my time better, and you understand this
And that's speakin' like a true deacon, cause even to see you sleeping
This is a wise decision, and shows my faith and devotion
That comfortably ain't enough for me, anything that you needing
I want to fulfill your needs and make you comfortable beyond just sleeping
I'll cease anything that squeaks, and cease any sink that leaks
I will fix anything that bothers you, big or small
Ain't nothing gon interrupt, your sleep deep into them sheets and peep
I will ensure that nothing interrupts your deep sleep and rest
How your father call the police, have your mama put in the jail
Your family had issues that resulted in your mother being arrested
When the arguments always started, and ended up in a cell
Your family arguments often became violent and ended in arrest
Hard to it was the thought of this, ring that you use to wear
Thoughts of your wedding ring are painful and difficult
As I darted out the apartment, and pawned it to get the bail
I had to sell your ring to get bail money
Argument after argument, drama wasn't hitting well
The constant arguing and drama took a toll on everyone involved
Target it ain't no harm in it, smart so I didn't tell
I was targeted by the police, but I was smart in not saying anything incriminating
God that it was the hardest, yeah life was a living hell
It was the hardest thing I've ever experienced, life was unbearable
Spent part of it steady dodging it, charging off in the trails
I had to constantly avoid danger and escape to stay safe
Father say he a Muslim, your mama say she a Christian
Your parents have different religious beliefs
The Bible or the Koran, which one would you be picking
Which religious text do you choose to follow?
The cards are in your palm, ain't really no use in tripping
You have control over your own destiny, so don't stress
Be true to the one you choose, ain't really no use in switching
Be true to your chosen religion and don't switch back and forth
Yeah they gon' have to be mad at us, choice is something I had to trust
People may not agree with your choice, but it's something you have to trust
Standing up when I had enough, for my blessings not adding up
I am standing up for myself when I feel like I am not being blessed enough
Take too many things for granted, right after that metal bust
We often take things for granted and don't appreciate them until we lose them
Somebody's life is missing, that's when the spirit grabbing us
When we feel like something is missing, it's the spirit trying to guide us
A religion is what you missing, someone tell me how can it
I am missing a connection to my religion and seek advice
Make people panic, mention God and all the weak people vanish
Mentioning God can cause fear in some, but it can also inspire strength
Take God your woman and your family, even your own life for granted
We often take our loved ones and our own life for granted
Until you slanted on the planet, with your face in the granite
Until we die and are buried into the ground
And I won't have it, I don't wanna see my coaching divided
I don't want to see my community divided by religion
So I decided to remind it, there's a choice and provide it
I decided to remind others that they have a choice in their religion
So put your ego to the side, soon as you standing beside it
Set aside your ego and embrace your chosen religion
Raise your right hand, and let the spirit know it's invited
Show your commitment to your religion by raising your hand and inviting the spirit
Don't need to fight it, I just wanna make it right 'fore they bury me
I don't need to fight my religion, I just want to make amends before I die
Cause the truth is like therapy, plus my conscience is tearing me
The truth is therapeutic and my conscience is weighing heavy on me
Into pieces as deadly was dealt, was not even fair to me
I was dealt a deadly hand that tore me apart, it wasn't fair
To the soldiers that passed in the game, we missing you terribly
To the soldiers who lost their lives, we miss you greatly
Thank my family especially, in my mind like telepathy
I am grateful for my family, and this gratitude is always on my mind
Staying humble is the recipe, keep my faith and he blessing me
Staying humble is key to my success, and my faith rewards me with blessings
I use the energy left in me, to make sure they respecting me
I use my remaining energy to ensure that others respect me
Walk the steps of my destiny, like I know he protecting me
I trust that my faith is protecting me and I will follow my destiny
I'm a leader, believe the people won't get to see less of me
I am a leader and will continue to be present for the people
No they won't see the death of me, or no police arresting me
I will not be defeated by death or law enforcement
I live life so successfully, and just show em the best of me
I live my life successfully and strive to show others the best version of myself
On another level mentally, this position was meant for me
I am on a different intellectual level and believe this is where I was meant to be
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: HAKEEM T. SERIKI, LARRY DI TOMMASO, RALPH DINO, TIMOTHY J. JANICKI
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind