Their often politically-charged, culturally-introspective, and motivational lyrics find influence rooted in the early works of Nas, Public Enemy, Outkast and Common Sense. The production could be described as warm, soulful and organic -- born out of the school of producers that cite the likes of RZA, Pete Rock, Jay Dee, and DJ Premier. Cyne's "sound" is impacted by everything from Bad Brains to Krautrock, from Camp Lo to Kate Bush – it's a hybrid of emotional, historical, and challenging influences.
The group's debut release was a 12" entitled "African Elephants," released in 2001. Cyne has since released a number of EPs, singles, and two critically well-received albums. They have also collaborated on projects with internationally acclaimed artists Daedelus, Four Tet and Nujabes.
With previously released albums on Botanica Del Jibaro, P-Vine and City Centre Offices, Cyne has created a reputation as artists that stay true to the lyrical power and gritty cut-and-paste aesthetic of classic hip hop while managing to explore new sonic territory.
Radiant Cool Boy
Cyne Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Me black, me rap, me craft to go against fame
They hear they fear they're preying on some dumb lame
The sheep they sleep they keep on igniting flames
We are human but are we really cuz
The kids want the sex drugs rock n' roll Vice buzz
I’m among that voice for sale
Revolution byproduct exploit the feel
And that’s me in a gang of stars that chase mass appeal
Def Jam, Interscope validate my skill
B-boys, whiteboys validate my will
Gimme 10 mics please it better be a meal ticket out of misery
Yet I write dark still
We only great by default
So what does that mean
To bring about change I came, a beauty extreme
Quote from Dave Chappelle fare well in
Lost episodes dreaming of Africa in march lock and reload
The green dot and oh shout to femi its free nights and weekends
That's spent with the Henny no more of that though
I’m out for the cash flow slay hypocrites white elites are straight assholes
Stare in the sun then eventually blind
Grind in the night in the event we shine
Light in the sky with your name it reads
It's Pretty Dark Things baby get acquainted begin
He panics at the disco
Yelled at the sheriff and cut a fool at the bistro
It’s minimal Ikea nice music of the cosmos
Miami life prices went clubbing with Donnie Darko
Automaton Apollo a fashionista gestapo
Vice mag reader who thinks he’s cool apostle
Radiant like aliens a funky homosapien
Used to rock a trucker hat with belt buckle dangerous
Fuck that rap shit black people are classic
Uber white boys disdain the name cracker
But want to use nigger as if fashion allows it
You better stay quiet or the riot about to happen blow
Radiant cool boy hipster and a scenester
Nothing ever sacred so say something and mean it
Everything can be reduced to clever little stickers
But you better watch yourself if you slip and call me nigger
This is this is my testament to
Those who make light of real pain and issue
Radiant cool boy nothing ever sacred
But criticize everything
The song Radiant Cool Boy by CYNE is a reflection on the state of society with regard to music, fame, and race. The lyricist speaks to the dichotomy of being human and desiring to be something more, something greater. The lyrics also speak to the exploitation of music as a product for sale rather than a form of expression. The lyricist speaks to the need for revolution and change in society, highlighting the fact that change is necessary but not without consequences.
The first verse of the song speaks to the power of music and the need to be authentic in one's craft. The second verse speaks to the impact of fame and the tension between art and the market. The final verse speaks to the complexity of racial issues in society and how society trivializes and exploits these issues.
Overall, the lyrics of Radiant Cool Boy encourage listeners to be critical of society and its institutions, while also celebrating the power of music to inspire change.
Line by Line Meaning
React, in fact we soar on a higher plane
We respond and elevate ourselves to a superior level
Me black, me rap, me craft to go against fame
I am a Black rapper, and my craft is to oppose the pursuit of being famous
They hear they fear they're preying on some dumb lame
They listen to and fear us because they exploit vulnerable and unintelligent people
The sheep they sleep they keep on igniting flames
The ignorant people continue to unknowingly cause controversy
We are human but are we really cuz
Are we truly human or just caught up in vice and societal pressures?
The kids want the sex drugs rock n' roll Vice buzz
The younger generation seeks pleasure and excitement, even if it goes against their wellbeing
I’m among that voice for sale
I am one of those who is willing to sell out and conform for fame
Revolution byproduct exploit the feel
The energy of a revolution is often exploited for profit
Speak your mind boy keep it real
Express yourself genuinely and authentically
And that’s me in a gang of stars that chase mass appeal
I am part of a group of popular artists who cater to the mainstream for success
Def Jam, Interscope validate my skill
Being backed by major record labels legitimizes my talent
B-boys, whiteboys validate my will
The admiration and support of certain subcultures reinforces my determination
Gimme 10 mics please it better be a meal ticket out of misery
I need recognition from numerous sources to escape my hardship
Yet I write dark still
Despite my desire for success, my lyrics remain honest and gritty
We only great by default
Our greatness is only because of a lack of competition
So what does that mean
What is the significance of our mediocrity?
To bring about change I came, a beauty extreme
I am a radical force for change
Quote from Dave Chappelle fare well in
A reference to comedic social commentary on race and society from the show Chappelle's Show
Lost episodes dreaming of Africa in march lock and reload
A metaphorical journey seeking enlightenment and change
The green dot and oh shout to femi its free nights and weekends
A shout-out to a friend and memories of simpler times
That's spent with the Henny no more of that though
Drinking Hennessy was part of those memories but has been abandoned
I’m out for the cash flow slay hypocrites white elites are straight assholes
I am seeking money and criticizing those in power and privilege
Stare in the sun then eventually blind
Intense ambition can lead to self-destruction
Grind in the night in the event we shine
Work hard and persist through difficulty to reach success
Light in the sky with your name it reads
Achieving greatness and recognition
It's Pretty Dark Things baby get acquainted begin
An introduction to the darker side of society and culture
He panics at the disco
A pop culture reference to a famous band
Yelled at the sheriff and cut a fool at the bistro
A reference to a rebellious attitude and disregard for authority
It’s minimal Ikea nice music of the cosmos
An ironic critique of trendy, generic music
Miami life prices went clubbing with Donnie Darko
A reference to hedonistic and dark partying in Miami
Automaton Apollo a fashionista gestapo
A critique of society's obsession with technology and fashion
Vice mag reader who thinks he’s cool apostle
A criticism of those who blindly follow trendy and pretentious media
Radiant like aliens a funky homosapien
Comparing oneself to an otherworldly and unique being
Used to rock a trucker hat with belt buckle dangerous
Nostalgic reflection on past fashion choices
Fuck that rap shit black people are classic
Rejecting modern rap and revering traditional Black culture
Uber white boys disdain the name cracker
White boys who dislike being called derogatory names but are comfortable using them against others
But want to use nigger as if fashion allows it
Critiquing the appropriation of Black culture and language by white people
You better stay quiet or the riot about to happen blow
Urging those in power to take action before they face backlash
Radiant cool boy hipster and a scenester
A self-description as trendy and alternative
Nothing ever sacred so say something and mean it
Encouraging others to speak honestly and critically
Everything can be reduced to clever little stickers
Reducing important issues to trendy or superficial symbols
But you better watch yourself if you slip and call me nigger
A warning against using derogatory language and misrepresenting oneself
This is this is my testament to
A declaration of purpose and belief
Those who make light of real pain and issue
A rebuke to those who trivialize serious problems
Radiant cool boy nothing ever sacred
Maintaining individuality and pushing boundaries
But criticize everything
Being constantly analytical and critical
Contributed by Makayla I. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
adrift
Poetry in one of it's most latent forms. This track takes me to a whole new place mentally. It provides a calm I cannot describe, despite all the personal ish I'm going through. Thank you for the music you have provided throughout the years cyne, you have in a way molded me into the man I am right now in the present, and the man I hope to become in the near and distant future.
TrillMoFucka
I love this beat, Makes me feel like i am in some other dimension. Away from such a cruel world.
The DMC
CYNE is just the definition of how hip hop can be inspired
SoulFullFunk
definitly one of my favorites!... Can't Stop them.. Won't stop them..One sick ass group. Anyone know how i can find out if they'll ever come to New York?
nlbeast8
cyne is one of the best rap groups in hip hop 2day hands down.. cise star and akin stay rippin it... cyne all the way
zodawg0079
This is my favorite track on the new CD.
Shadayuki
I'm not disappointed by this album at all. I think the production is certainly their best.
da nd
yeah this is one of my faves off pretty dark things as well. Right up there with Escape, Scattered, Excite Me. Also I always thought the little voice was saying "I love you" lol
THEREALSIDGUY
HIP HOP LIVES!!!
TruGouki
Yooo i heard this song off a street fighter combo video this joint is tight