Anyone familiar with the rhythmic repertoire of the Gap band, including classic tracks "You Dropped a Bomb on Me," "Burn Rubber (Why You Wanna Hurt Me)," and "Yearning for Your Love," can hear traces of Charlie in the contemporary voices of current R&B royalty. Their music continues to be sampled by hundreds of artists including Madonna, Usher, Mary J. Blige, Ashanti, Will Smith, and George Michael to name a few.
"From day one, R. Kelly has always proclaimed himself a modern day Charlie Wilson," he says. "He and I have been talking about collaborating for years, and now it’s finally happening." On Charlie, Last Name Wilson, his first disc since 2001, the former cowboy boot wearing bro is now gator stepping in Chi-town with the king of urban grooves. "This was a big step for me, because the Gap band always did our own music," Wilson recalls. "Letting others write and produce for me, is a big step." Fortunately, coming through on his promise, R. Kelly has stepped to the plate to produce four mackadelic tracks.
"The first song we recorded was the title track. I already knew he was talented, but it was then I realized he’s a genius." With his own classic appeal, Charlie Wilson possess a style that has never gone out of style, the kind of voice that can be gutbucket and cool, smooth as hot butter and tasty as chocolate. "Charlie, Last Name Wilson" is the kind of urban romancer that will appeal to both old souls hanging in the spot and R&B kids chilling on the block.
The instant classic "No Words," is an exquisite track that has an eternal pop sound comparable to Burt Bacharach, Curtis Mayfield or Babyface. With this enchanting song, sonic Chicago architect R. Kelly has constructed one of the finest "drama" ballads of his career. "That is my favorite song, because it’s so powerful," Charlie says. "Basically, it’s me singing from the woman’s perspective. I know some men are going to be mad that I’m saying these things, because now they might have to stop playing basketball long enough to buy their lady some flowers."
Proving himself to be more than a balladeer, the smoking "So Hot" is the kind of popping dance-floor track one might not expect to hear. A master blaster for the BET generation, one can imagine booming speakers, slinking girls and enough sweat to swim through without drowning. Indeed, with a brilliant collection of material, Charlie, Last Name Wilson has created the perfect re-introduction for contemporary audiences to embrace.
Throwing down some new tricks, the upbeat groove of "Magic" is a whimsical song with Uncle Charlie (that’s what the kids call him) playing the roll of a magician—the kind who can blink his eye, mumble a few words and make your clothes disappear. "It’s all about being able to work that charm," Wilson says slyly. Abracadabra, hocus pocus and all that jazz…
Raised the son of a preacher man and a strict mother, Charlie recalls his Tulsa days with the fondness of a Hallmark card. "It was the kind of place where you could go to any door and borrow a cup of sugar," he says. "I had a very happy childhood." Though his mother did not want him sullying his ears with secular sounds, he says, "Pops didn’t care, because he had a nephew who was a blues musician. Every time he came around his car had shiny wheels and slicked back hair; he wore sharkskin suits and always had a car full of women. I knew then, that is what I wanted to do.
Inspired by the black velveteen of Sam Cooke and the Motown sound of Little Stevie Wonder, young Charlie began performing in local night spots while still a teen. "I would be playing for the same people at night that was teaching us during the day. We were playing grown folk’s music when we were still kids." Teaming with his brothers in 1967 Wilson proudly says, "And we’re still performing together today. We may not see eye to eye on everything, but we are family first. Some crazy things have gone down over the years, but family is the mother ship; and that big ship is the Gap Band."
In addition to their "roof is on fire" jams, the Gap Band was also known for making cowboy gear cool in the hood. "People used to tease us, because we came from Okalahoma," Charlie laughs. "So we just decided to dress like cowboys. When we put on the hat and boots, we knew it looked corny, but we did not care. That’s our look."
Though Charlie has had his share of wealth, he has also had his share of demons. Partying hard and living close to the edge, Charlie lost everything due to bad decisions and drug abuse. "I went from living in a mansion to living on the street," Charlie confesses. "I had strangers living in my house, stealing my cars. I had hit rock bottom. If it wasn’t for God and my wife, who knows where I would be today."
After the recording with R.Kelly in the windy city, Charlie returned to his adopted hometown of Los Angeles, going straight to the studio with superstar label-mate Justin Timberlake and Black Eyed Peas auteur Will.i.am. "Justin is a very talented kid," says Wilson. "We had worked together on a project with Snoop. We were hanging-out in my trailer when I asked if he wanted to be a part of the project. Justin is a real humble guy." Called "Floatin’," the track is bound to introduce Charlie Wilson to a brand new crowd. Simultaneously laidback and funky, there is a certain bliss one feels when listening to this song. Like an easy Sunday morning, "Floatin’" will make you feel good. "Will is like a modern day Sly Stone," he says. "He is on his way to great things."
For sure, Charlie Wilson knows about great things. From those early days touring with the Rolling Stones to being a major headliner in the early ‘80s, the Gap Band always brought the party. "When we performed it was all about showmanship," informs Wilson. "That’s what I think is missing in music right now, and I’m ready to bring it back."
The track for former new jack swing fans is Wilson’s remake of Guy’s classic ballad "Let’s Chill." Of course, as Uncle Charlie is quick to point out, Guy singer Aaron Hall listened to his share of Gap Band material before going into the vocal booth for the first time.
"We laugh about it," Wilson says. "But, singers like R. Kelly and Aaron Hall continued in the tradition of what I was doing." Produced by Platinum Brothers and Larry "Rock" Campbell the tone of the "Let’s Chill" remake does not stray far from the original Teddy Riley joint-ski, Wilson provides enough flavors to make it even spicier. With a haunting quality to his voice, this is the kind of mood music that demands a red light bulb dangling over the waterbed.
On Charlie, Last Name Wilson a masterful performer returns to proclaim his rightful place on the throne. Mixing booming beats with chocolate love, Charlie Wilson is bringing the truth; and, as with most great soul singers, the gospel of life, love and happiness can be heard in the grain of his voice.
Roots
Charlie Wilson Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
It's all fun and games 'til it happens like a Based God curse
Yeah, cell keep tickin' on me like I'm 6-1-7, yeah
My cousin Steez Stizz like he's 6-1-7, okay
Devil on my shoulder, marijuana from Boulder
You know my niggas in this muthafuckin' bitch
If bein' ugly was pretty I'd be the shit
Never been nowhere, but these niggas they love to trip
Bitches gettin' cold, then niggas grab your Patagonias
So I toby acquired her, I had to get a baby who could make me get wired up
You know I'm about that action, my nigga Marc could get it crackin'
Open up your soul and take your body like, "What's happenin'?"
I'm not a succulent or sucker, baby girl
These roots made me, I bring my flowers to the world (yeah)
It's on me
Wear my flaws like ice keep my soul in sight
The sun is on me
And my stems don't bite if the light shines bright
(No, no, no, no, no, no, no)
It's rainin' on me
My guilt weigh heavy, it cost me a life
I got my own seeds (yeah)
They rip my petals to my 6, 'cause my roots won't die
(Check this out)
Like humans and animals
plants need both water and nutrients to survive, food
Most all plants use water to carry moisture
Nutrients back and forth between the roots and leaves, bitch
Searchin' for my shelter through the storm
I find peace, my safe haven, keepin' me far away from harm
Nevertheless the greener grass is proof the roots are strong
But now we standin' here divided, choose the side where you belong
Mama keep the lights on (yeah)
All I see is red so we awake the dead
She likes my third eye, she loves my third leg
This my third time around the worldwide, winds
Give me the Versay, Versace, Benz, put work in
Made my words work with pens
Scribblin' sins, I drop gems
I don't got tick tock time for them, seeds or stems
Evil men plottin', we see you 'cause we watchin'
We see you, believe me you, we see you (Mr. Root)
Get your ass up out that grass and stretch your limbs
Photosynthesis, I see the future picture, take a glimpse
Everything you tryna have is in your grab, so get a grip (Mr. Root)
It's for the kids, (Mr. Root) yo what it is? (Uh, yeah)
It's on me
Wear my flaws like ice keep my soul in sight
The sun is on me
And my stems don't bite if the light shines bright
(No, no, no, no, no, no, no)
It's rainin' on me
My guilt weigh heavy, it cost me a life
I got my own seeds (yeah)
They rip my petals to my 6, 'cause my roots won't die
(What the fuck?)
Holy, holy, holy
holy, holy, holy (let me grow)
Holy, holy, holy
holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy
holy, holy, holy (let me grow)
Holy, holy, holy
holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy
holy, holy, holy (let me grow)
Holy, holy, holy
holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy
holy, holy, holy (let me grow)
Holy, holy, holy
holy, holy, holy (let me grow)
Let me grow (let me grow)
"Roots" by Charlie Wilson is a song that delves into themes of personal identity, growth, and resilience. The lyrics reflect a sense of pride in one's origins and the journey of self-discovery.
The first verse is a response to someone who has heard things about the singer. It dismisses the negative rumors and emphasizes that actions have consequences, likening them to a curse from Based God (Lil B). The reference to cell ticking on the singer, implying pressure or scrutiny, connects to the area code 617, likely representing Boston, where the singer's cousin Steez Stizz is from. This establishes the connection between the singer's roots and his identity.
The mention of the devil on the singer's shoulder and marijuana from Boulder indicates the struggle between temptation and finding solace in familiar places. The line "If being ugly was pretty, I'd be the shit" suggests that the singer is unapologetically himself, even if societal standards may see him as unconventional. The reference to Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Habesha utopia represents the singer's African roots and perhaps his desire for a perfect world within his culture.
The next section describes the singer's eagerness for action and his associate Marc's ability to make things happen. "Opening up your soul and taking your body" suggests a powerful and captivating presence. The singer asserts that he is not a succulent or sucker, indicating his strength and resistance to being taken advantage of. He proudly declares that his roots have made him who he is and he wants to share his talent, symbolized by bringing his flowers to the world.
The chorus brings forward themes of self-acceptance and resilience. The singer acknowledges his flaws and wears them proudly, comparing it to how one would wear ice. The sun shining on him symbolizes positivity and energy, and the line about the stems not biting when light shines bright suggests that he remains grounded and unaffected by negativity. Despite feeling weighed down by guilt and the loss it has caused, the singer has his own seeds, possibly representing future generations, and his roots, symbolizing his strength and heritage, continue to thrive.
In the final verse, the singer reflects on the search for shelter and finding peace away from harm. The mention of greener grass indicates a longing for unity and standing together. The line "choose the side where you belong" emphasizes the importance of aligning oneself with a supportive community. The mention of Mama keeping the lights on implies her role in providing stability, and the references to the "third eye" and "third leg" symbolize intuition and creative power.
The verse continues with the singer's experience of worldly success and the pursuit of luxury. However, he values the importance of inner growth, dropping knowledge like gems and rejecting superficial distractions. The reference to photosynthesis and seeing the future picture suggests a deep understanding of personal growth and a visionary mindset. The singer encourages others to seize their desires, using the analogy of getting a grip on what they want. Throughout the lyrics, there's a recurring mention of "Mr. Root," reinforcing the concept of staying true to one's origins and identity.
The chorus repeats again, emphasizing the acceptance of flaws, resilience, and the enduring nature of roots. The concluding line "let me grow" encapsulates the desire for personal development and embracing the full potential of one's identity.
Line by Line Meaning
You say you heard a lot about me, nigga, fuck what you heard
People may have spread rumors and gossip about me, but I don't care about their opinions.
It's all fun and games 'til it happens like a Based God curse
People may think everything is enjoyable and lighthearted, but things can quickly turn serious and challenging like a curse.
Yeah, cell keep tickin' on me like I'm 6-1-7, yeah
The time keeps passing by, marking the moments of my life, just like the area code 617.
My cousin Steez Stizz like he's 6-1-7, okay
My cousin Steez Stizz represents the same area code pride and identity as me.
Devil on my shoulder, marijuana from Boulder
I am tempted by negative influences and distractions, such as smoking marijuana from the city of Boulder.
You know my niggas in this muthafuckin' bitch
My close friends and trusted allies are present and supporting me in this challenging situation.
If bein' ugly was pretty I'd be the shit
Even though I may not fit society's conventional standards of beauty, I would still embrace and be proud of my unique appearance.
Never been nowhere, but these niggas they love to trip
I may not have traveled extensively, but there are people who enjoy criticizing and causing trouble for me.
Eritrea, Ethiopia, Habesha utopia
Referencing the East African countries of Eritrea and Ethiopia, where the Habesha culture thrives and represents a vision of a perfect world.
Bitches gettin' cold, then niggas grab your Patagonias
When women become distant or uninterested, men tend to seek the comfort and attention of their Patagonia jackets.
So I toby acquired her, I had to get a baby who could make me get wired up
To capture her attention, I had to become the best version of myself, someone who could bring excitement and passion into her life.
You know I'm about that action, my nigga Marc could get it crackin'
I am not just about talking, I am ready to take action, and my friend Marc is skilled at making things happen.
Open up your soul and take your body like, "What's happenin'?"
Let go of your inner fears and inhibitions, and allow yourself to fully experience the present moment.
I'm not a succulent or sucker, baby girl
I am not easily manipulated or fooled, my dear.
These roots made me, I bring my flowers to the world (yeah)
My upbringing and background have shaped and defined me, and now I share my talents and positivity with the world.
It's on me
I take full responsibility for my actions and their consequences.
Wear my flaws like ice keep my soul in sight
I embrace my imperfections and use them as a reminder to stay true to myself.
The sun is on me
I feel the warmth and positivity of life shining down on me.
And my stems don't bite if the light shines bright
I remain calm and composed even when faced with challenges, as long as there is positivity and enlightenment.
(No, no, no, no, no, no, no)
Repeating 'no' emphasizes a refusal or rejection of negativity.
It's rainin' on me
I am burdened and weighed down by guilt and remorse.
My guilt weigh heavy, it cost me a life
The weight of my guilt is significant and has resulted in the loss of someone's life.
I got my own seeds (yeah)
I have my own dreams, ambitions, and the ability to create my own legacy.
They rip my petals to my 6, 'cause my roots won't die
Despite facing hardships and being torn down, my inner strength and resilience allow me to keep going.
(Check this out)
Pay attention to what I'm about to say.
Like humans and animals
Similar to how humans and animals function.
plants need both water and nutrients to survive, food
Plants require a combination of water and essential nutrients to thrive and stay alive, just like how humans need food.
Most all plants use water to carry moisture
Water serves as a transportation system for moisture within almost all plants.
Nutrients back and forth between the roots and leaves, bitch
Nutrients are exchanged and transported in both directions between the roots and leaves of a plant.
Searchin' for my shelter through the storm
In the midst of life's challenges, I am seeking a place of refuge and safety.
I find peace, my safe haven, keepin' me far away from harm
I discover tranquility and security in my sanctuary, which protects me from danger and harm.
Nevertheless the greener grass is proof the roots are strong
The fact that the grass appears greener in certain places serves as evidence of the strength and stability of the roots beneath.
But now we standin' here divided, choose the side where you belong
We are currently facing division and disagreement, so it is necessary for everyone to decide which side they support or align with.
Mama keep the lights on (yeah)
Expressing gratitude and appreciation towards my mother for providing a stable and comforting environment.
All I see is red so we awake the dead
I perceive everything through a lens of intensity and passion, and together we revive and awaken what was seemingly lifeless.
She likes my third eye, she loves my third leg
She is attracted to my unique perspective and insight, both metaphorically and sexually.
This my third time around the worldwide, winds
I have experienced the world and its various challenges multiple times, like the cycles of the wind.
Give me the Versay, Versace, Benz, put work in
I desire luxury and high-end possessions like those associated with Versace and Mercedes-Benz, but I understand the importance of hard work to attain them.
Made my words work with pens
I have crafted and honed my words through writing and using various pens, implying the power and impact of my storytelling.
Scribblin' sins, I drop gems
I write and express my faults and mistakes, but amidst those, I also provide valuable insights and wisdom.
I don't got tick tock time for them, seeds or stems
I have no patience or time to waste on individuals who are insignificant or lack potential for growth.
Evil men plottin', we see you 'cause we watchin'
I am aware of the scheming and intentions of wicked individuals, as we closely observe their actions.
We see you, believe me you, we see you (Mr. Root)
I want those plotting against us to know that we are fully aware of their existence and their plans.
Get your ass up out that grass and stretch your limbs
Stop hiding and become active and proactive, expanding beyond your comfort zone.
Photosynthesis, I see the future picture, take a glimpse
Using the process of photosynthesis as a metaphor, I can envision and perceive the future, offering a glimpse of what is to come.
Everything you tryna have is in your grab, so get a grip (Mr. Root)
I want people to realize that everything they desire is within their reach and control if they take hold of it.
It's for the kids, (Mr. Root) yo what it is? (Uh, yeah)
I emphasize that my actions and message are ultimately intended to benefit and inspire the younger generation, as I ask for confirmation from Mr. Root.
Holy, holy, holy
Repeating 'holy' suggests a sense of reverence or sacredness.
holy, holy, holy (let me grow)
The repetition of 'holy' is a plea for permission to grow and develop.
Let me grow (let me grow)
A request to be allowed the opportunity to mature and progress.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, RESERVOIR MEDIA MANAGEMENT INC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Adam Amine Daniel, Charlie Brown, Destin Route, George Smallwood, Irvin P Mejia, Nathaniel Ritchie
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@cozymantrilo
''she likes my third eye , she loves my third leg''
that bar tooo fire
@funydino1652
fr
@Physix_XO
Jid crazy wit it
@ayudhdhupar6733
Amine should be in the next dreamville album no 🧢
@XynoToaa
this would be fireee
@geraldosualang
Agreed
@lilly_4519
facts
@shaanalam3872
definitely
@tompickering6626
He's one of my rappers but I don't think he would fit
@Tronnyboi
The Godfather Charlie , J.I.D and Amine? Can’t get any better than this tbh