"GOODIE MOb", as it's written on their album covers, means the "GOOD DIE Mostly Over bullshit". Cee-Lo notes in a song off the Soul Food album that, "[If] you take out one 'O' it stands for 'GOD Is Every Man Of blackness.' "
Its members were all born in Atlanta, and the group is based there with the rest of the Dungeon Family, a collective which includes OutKast, Witch Doctor and P.A. (Parental Advisory). Goodie was first heard reciting haunting politically charged poetry on several songs from OutKast's first album Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik. His reputation as a poet, thinker and social commentator is legendary in the southern hip-hop community.
Cee-Lo was the most visible member of the group prior to his departure in 2000 due in part to his distinct voice, while Big Gipp has made several rounds on other Dungeon Family members' albums, and T-Mo and Khujo form a duo within the group called The Lumberjacks.
Discography
Soul Food (1995)
Goodie Mob's debut was the Gold-certified album Soul Food in (1995). Produced by Organized Noize and critically acclaimed, the album went gold. It was on this album that the phrase Dirty South was actually coined, with a song of that same title. This album touched on many social and political issues such as racism, discrimination, geo-politics, and gentrification. Although the album dealt with such heavy issues, some songs still carried a lighter tone, such as "Soul Food," in which the crew expressed their love for home cooked meals. Along with Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik, this album put Atlanta's rap scene on the map.
Still Standing (1998)
The Mob's sophomore release was Still Standing in 1998, on which they continued their tendency towards social commentary, and Cee-Lo's penchant for singing began to show through more. The album was also produced by Organize Noize, except for contributions by DJ Muggs (which would lead to Goodie Mob's contribution on Soul Assassins I) and Mr. DJ. During this period the group made a cameo appearance in the film Mystery Men, with Cee-Lo crediting himself by his birth name, Thomas Callaway (though he refers to himself as "Carlito Green" in the liner notes). Still Standing was the group's second gold-selling effort. On the front and back covers, the letter "O" in "Mob" contained a chilling silhouette of a hanged man in the center.
World Party (1999)
Feeling pressure from the increasing popularity and sales of their fellow Dungeon Family group OutKast, Goodie Mob decided to sign with Arista Records for their third album. The record veered away from their gritty style that permeated their successful previous releases, instead incorporating lighter beats and party related subject matter, which many fans perceived as selling out in an attempt for mainstream popularity. The social tone which had pervaded their earlier releases was absent; one track on the album, "All A's," was criticized for reportedly containing homophobic lyrics. During production, unhappy with the project's direction, Cee-Lo abruptly left to pursue a solo career. Arista dropped the group following poor sales of the album.
One Monkey Don't Stop No Show (2004)
The fourth album from Goodie, not featuring Cee-Lo, was something of a return to their earlier style, though fans were unhappy with the lack of Cee-Lo's presence. Many thought the "monkey" referenced in the title and shown on the cover was a reference to their prodigal groupmate, though the group claims it actually represents the music industry. Released the following year, Cee-Lo's second solo album Cee-Lo Green... is the Soul Machine featured a song called "When We Were Friends," which many also took for a diss to his former group.
Livin' Life As Lumberjacks (2005)
One Monkey's poor reception led Big Gipp to briefly leave the group as well, and T-Mo and Khujo released an album under the name The Lumberjacks called Livin' Life As Lumberjacks. The album continued the trend of somewhat lessened social commentary, getting into the crunk style that by then had pervaded Atlanta's music scene. Though Cee-Lo was still absent, Big Gipp appeared twice on the album to form the trio once again on the tracks Superfriends and 24/7/365.
Possible Reunion
It has been reported that all four Goodie Mob members are back on good terms and have reentered the studio to release a brand new album. Cee-Lo and Big Gipp have both referenced this in multiple interviews. No release date has been set, nor any details concerning the possible album released.
The four members recently appeared on stage together on October 1, 2006 following a Gnarls Barkley show, stating that they were back together or at least on good terms. No details were given concerning a possible reunion album at the time.
Beautiful Skin
Goodie Mob Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
But aside from all the rest, she sparks my interest
No, ma'am, I don't know you
Just offering the common respect I feel I owe you
Also, some conversation, companionship, common-ground and common-sense
There's no such thing as coincidence in, me finding you here
And I really hate screaming in your ear, so some other time, OK?
I waited a day hello?
Forgive me if I've called you too late
But what better time to relate mind-state? Where could I begin?
Hasn't anyone ever told you you got beautiful skin?
You're more than welcome, what do you desire within?
I just, wanna be, there's no need to put titles on you and me
Those are limitations, living and learning are our only obligations
Equality, honesty, independence, intelligence, emotion and devotion
Humbly seeking to hear God when he's speaking
At one time, my mind, just, couldn't conceive
A woman had to dress a certain way to believe
But, in the same breath, a-llow me to say
That, if you believed young lady, you wouldn't dress that way
And I, was attracted to your class, I couldn't see all yo' ass
And, I was very content, and you deserved every complement
Now, remember our indifferences make us the same
You gotta have some game, or
You ain't even gonna be able to take care of yourself, uh
And Love, when I look at you, I see my reflection
So I offer my love, affection and protection
Shawty, you dead fine, but the bottom-line is
You're still my sister
Well, I say you're my, beginnin my end
You're my sista lover and friend
God is, your light from within
It shines through your beautiful skin
What they, say bout you ain't true
There's no me if there is no you
I hope, that you understand
You got to respect yourself before I can
Yeah, I met you and y'all knew, saw you again on Marietta
Downtown Atlanta, checkin your long legs, got me smirkin
Fixed me dinner one night, candles lit
Kinda ahought you was slick in the beginnin
But it teurned out you wouldn't lie
Looked me in my eye, I listened
Sucked it up, pushed on, we made amends, both sides clicked
True friends, since then, years done gon by
Brought a baby girl into this world, made our parents grandfolks
Household with no hope, took care of ye, you me
When shit got put out on the curb
Closer than the skin on the back of my hand
Through the thick and thin, we can win
Beautiful black skin
Well, I say you're my, beginnin my end
You're my sista lover and friend
God is, your light from within
It shines through your beautiful skin
What they, say bout you ain't true
There's no me if there is no you
I hope, that you understand
You got to respect yourself before I can
No need to compete, with the music loud
Or stairs cold, put on a scale, of one to ten, you a twelve
I chose, her over jail and hell
Originally from ATL
Compatible souls come together, under bad weather
To discuss distrust amongst the so-called
Good in every wo-man, how I wish this was true
I deal with facts only, already done cloned me
Why I sang the blues, when there's only one God
That watches over our every step, I need his help
When I'm walkin, lookin for the right female
I can't tell sometimes
They tell me the devil's comin humble in his approach
Spontaneous with the game
He caught the naive of a girl fallin for the OK
Let the pistol smoke the one you live by
Die by, examples of how relationships can be
I rolls the dice, takin a chance at crappin out
Like today boy, I lost one of my best hips
Natural thick lips, no animal fat implants
Wide load, just started workin at the airport
19 years old, worth more than her weight in gold
But it was all my fault, so don't cry, understand
If down the line I want you back and the feelin ain't mutual
Just promise me you'll find a new man that's bout some business
Hope she find what her was lookin for, like a dreamto my end
I wanted to be more than friends
Beautiful black skin (black skin)
Well, I say you're my, beginnin my end
You're my sista lover and friend
God is, your light from within
It shines through your beautiful skin
What they, say bout you ain't true
There's no me if there is no you
I hope, that you understand
You got to respect yourself before I can
Well, I say you're my, beginnin my end
You're my sista lover and friend
God is, your light from within
It shines through your beautiful skin
What they, say bout you ain't true
There's no me if there is no you
I hope, that you understand
You got to respect yourself before I can
In the song "Beautiful Skin" by Goodie Mob, the singer is expressing his admiration for a woman he just met. He begins by introducing himself and expressing the common respect he feels he owes her, before stating that he finds her interesting. He then proceeds to have a conversation with her, emphasizing the importance of common-ground and common-sense. He compliments her, telling her that she has beautiful skin, but emphasizes that he wants to be there for her beyond just physical attraction. He ends the song by reminding her of the importance of self-respect, as he offers his love, affection, and protection.
The song emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and equality in relationships, and that physical attraction alone is not enough to sustain a meaningful connection. The lyrics emphasize the need to seek companionship with those who share our values, as opposed to just physical appearance. The lyrics are introspective, reflecting a personal and genuine connection with the subject of the song. The emphasis on self-respect highlights the importance of both individuals respecting themselves before entering a relationship.
Line by Line Meaning
Yo, I'm quite single, and occassionally I mingle
I am currently not in a committed relationship and occasionally socialize with others.
But aside from all the rest, she sparks my interest
However, among all others, she captures my attention and fascinates me.
No, ma'am, I don't know you
Excuse me, I am not acquainted with you.
Just offering the common respect I feel I owe you
I am simply providing you with the respect that I believe everyone deserves.
Also, some conversation, companionship, common-ground and common-sense
Additionally, I am seeking conversation, companionship, shared interests, and logical thinking.
There's no such thing as coincidence in, me finding you here
I do not believe in coincidences when it comes to encountering you in this place.
And I really hate screaming in your ear, so some other time, OK?
I dislike raising my voice near you, so how about we continue this conversation another time?
I waited a day hello?
I called you a day ago - is it too late to speak now?
This is Carlito from a couple of days ago, you sound tired
This is Carlito, the person who called you a few days ago. You sound fatigued.
Forgive me if I've called you too late
Please excuse me if I have contacted you at an inconvenient hour.
But what better time to relate mind-state? Where could I begin?
However, what could be a more suitable moment to share our thoughts and perspectives? Where should I start?
Hasn't anyone ever told you you got beautiful skin?
Has no one ever expressed to you that you have exquisite skin?
You're more than welcome, what do you desire within?
You are greatly appreciated. What do you wish to experience or find here?
I just, wanna be, there's no need to put titles on you and me
I simply desire to exist in your presence, without the need for labels or definitions on our relationship.
Those are limitations, living and learning are our only obligations
Categorizing ourselves imposes restrictions, whereas our fundamental responsibilities are to experience life and gain wisdom.
Equality, honesty, independence, intelligence, emotion and devotion
Treating each other as equals, practicing honesty, nurturing individuality, utilizing intelligence, acknowledging emotions, and exhibiting loyalty.
Humbly seeking to hear God when he's speaking
With humility, I strive to listen for God's messages when He communicates with us.
At one time, my mind, just, couldn't conceive
There was a period when I was unable to comprehend or understand.
A woman had to dress a certain way to believe
I used to believe that a woman had to adhere to a particular style of dressing to have faith.
But, in the same breath, a-llow me to say
However, let me express an opposing viewpoint.
That, if you believed young lady, you wouldn't dress that way
If you truly had faith, you would not choose to dress in that manner, young lady.
And I, was attracted to your class, I couldn't see all yo' ass
I was drawn to your elegance and poise, rather than focusing solely on your physical appearance.
And, I was very content, and you deserved every complement
I was genuinely satisfied, and you deserved every compliment I gave you.
Now, remember our indifferences make us the same
Please recall that our disagreements actually make us similar or alike.
You gotta have some game, or
You should possess some level of charm or skill, or else
You ain't even gonna be able to take care of yourself, uh
You will struggle to support yourself financially and emotionally.
And Love, when I look at you, I see my reflection
My dear, when I gaze upon you, I perceive my own reflection.
So I offer my love, affection and protection
Therefore, I extend my love, care, and security to you.
Shawty, you dead fine, but the bottom-line is
My dear, you are incredibly attractive, but the most important aspect is
You're still my sister
You are still my sister, in a figurative sense, emphasizing our bond and unity.
Well, I say you're my, beginnin my end
I believe that you are both the start and the conclusion of my journey.
You're my sista lover and friend
You are not only my sister but also my romantic partner and companion.
God is, your light from within
Your inner light and strength come from God.
It shines through your beautiful skin
His radiance is evident in the beauty of your skin.
What they, say bout you ain't true
The things that others say about you are not accurate or valid.
There's no me if there is no you
Without you, there is no me. Our existence is interconnected.
I hope, that you understand
I sincerely hope that you comprehend and grasp this concept.
You got to respect yourself before I can
You must first develop self-respect before I can fully respect you.
Yeah, I met you and y'all knew, saw you again on Marietta
Yes, I met you, and our mutual acquaintances were aware of it. I spotted you once more on Marietta Street.
Downtown Atlanta, checkin your long legs, got me smirkin
We were in downtown Atlanta, admiring your lengthy legs, which brought a smile to my face.
Fixed me dinner one night, candles lit
You prepared a meal for me one evening, with candles illuminating the ambiance.
Kinda ahought you was slick in the beginnin
Initially, I believed you were trying to be clever or cunning.
But it teurned out you wouldn't lie
However, it became evident that you were genuine and honest.
Looked me in my eye, I listened
You met my gaze directly, and I attentively listened to your words.
Sucked it up, pushed on, we made amends, both sides clicked
We had the strength to overcome our differences and reconciled, finding a mutual connection.
True friends, since then, years done gon by
Since that time, we have become true friends, and many years have passed.
Brought a baby girl into this world, made our parents grandfolks
We welcomed a daughter into our lives, making us parents and our own parents grandparents.
Household with no hope, took care of ye, you me
We had a home without much hope, but we took care of each other mutually.
When shit got put out on the curb
When we faced difficulties and hardships, we confronted them head-on.
Closer than the skin on the back of my hand
Our bond is tighter than the skin on the back of my hand - incredibly close and intimate.
Through the thick and thin, we can win
Despite the challenges and trials we face, we can emerge victorious.
No need to compete, with the music loud
There is no requirement to engage in a competition, even amidst loud music.
Or stairs cold, put on a scale, of one to ten, you a twelve
Regardless of harsh criticism or judgment, if we were to rate you on a scale of one to ten, you surpass a perfect score.
I chose, her over jail and hell
I made a conscious decision to prioritize her over the possibility of going to jail or facing a terrible fate.
Originally from ATL
Originally from Atlanta.
Compatible souls come together, under bad weather
Like-minded individuals unite, even during difficult times.
To discuss distrust amongst the so-called
To address the lack of trust within the so-called community.
Good in every wo-man, how I wish this was true
The inherent goodness within every woman - how I yearn for this to be a reality.
I deal with facts only, already done cloned me
I only deal with verifiable facts, and it seems someone has already imitated me.
Why I sang the blues, when there's only one God
I expressed a feeling of sadness or dissatisfaction, even though there is only one God.
That watches over our every step, I need his help
He is constantly vigilant, overseeing our every move, and I rely on His assistance.
When I'm walkin, lookin for the right female
As I navigate through life, searching for the ideal woman.
I can't tell sometimes
At times, I find it challenging to discern or determine.
They tell me the devil's comin humble in his approach
I have been warned that the devil can appear unassuming and modest.
Spontaneous with the game
Engaging in sudden or impulsive actions during the pursuit of love.
He caught the naive of a girl fallin for the OK
He took advantage of a young, naรฏve girl who fell for his false promises.
Let the pistol smoke the one you live by
Allow the firearm to discharge upon the individual who poses a direct threat to you.
Die by, examples of how relationships can be
Suffer the consequences, proving the potential outcomes of relationships.
I rolls the dice, takin a chance at crappin out
I take on risks, placing my luck on the line, knowing that failure is a possibility.
Like today boy, I lost one of my best hips
Just like today, my friend, I experienced the loss of one of my most cherished relationships.
Natural thick lips, no animal fat implants
Authentically full lips, without any enhancements or fillers made of animal fat.
Wide load, just started workin at the airport
Having a curvaceous figure, recently beginning employment at the airport.
19 years old, worth more than her weight in gold
Being only 19 years old, possessing qualities and value that surpass material wealth.
But it was all my fault, so don't cry, understand
However, it was entirely my own mistake, so please do not shed tears, but comprehend
If down the line I want you back and the feelin ain't mutual
If, in the future, I desire to reconcile, but the sentiment is not reciprocated
Just promise me you'll find a new man that's bout some business
Simply assure me that you will discover a new partner who is focused and driven.
Hope she find what her was lookin for, like a dreamto my end
I hope she finds what she was seeking, similar to a vision or aspiration I have of my own conclusion.
I wanted to be more than friends
I desired a connection beyond a platonic friendship.
Beautiful black skin (black skin)
Exquisite dark complexion.
Lyrics ยฉ BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: ROBERT TERRANCE BARNETT, CAMERON F. GIPP, WILLIE EDWARD KNIGHTON, CRAIG D. LOVE, THOMAS DECARLO BURTON
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Christine Hawes
At one time, my mind, just, couldn't conceive
A woman had to dress a certain way to believe
But, in the same breath, a-llow me to say
That, if you believed young lady, you wouldn't dress that way
And I, was attracted to your class, I couldn't see all yo' ass
And, I was very content, and you deserved every complement
Now, remember our indifferences make us the same
You gotta have some game, or, many of you
won't even be able to take care of yourself, uh
And Love, when I look at you, I see my reflection
So I offer my love, affection and protection
Shawty, you dead fine, but the bottom-line is
You're still my sister
Charlie Rocc
Yo, I'm quite single, and occassionally I mingle
But aside from all the rest, she sparks my interest
No, ma'am, I don't know you
Just offering the common respect I feel I owe you
Also, some conversation, companionship, common-ground and common-sense
There's no such thing as coincidence in, me finding you here
And I really hate screaming in your ear, so some other time, OK?
I waited a day hello?
This is Carlito from a couple of days ago, you sound tired
Forgive me if I've called you too late
But what better time to relate mind-state? Where could I begin?
Hasn't anyone ever told you you got beautiful skin?
You're more than welcome, what do you desire within?
I just, wanna be, there's no need to put titles on you and me
Those are limitations, living and learning are our only obligations
Equality, honesty, independence, intelligence, emotion and devotion
Humbly seeking to hear God when he's speaking
At one time, my mind, just, couldn't conceive
A woman had to dress a certain way to believe
But, in the same breath, a-llow me to say
That, if you believed young lady, you wouldn't dress that way
And I, was attracted to your class, I couldn't see all yo' ass
And, I was very content, and you deserved every complement
Now, remember our indifferences make us the same
You gotta have some game, or
You ain't even gonna be able to take care of yourself, uh
And Love, when I look at you, I see my reflection
So I offer my love, affection and protection
Shawty, you dead fine, but the bottom-line is
You're still my sister
Well, I say you're my, beginnin my end
You're my sista lover and friend
God is, your light from within
It shines through your beautiful skin
What they, say bout you ain't true
There's no me if there is no you
I hope, that you understand
You got to respect yourself before I can
Yeah, I met you and y'all knew, saw you again on Marietta
Downtown Atlanta, checkin your long legs, got me smirkin
Fixed me dinner one night, candles lit
Kinda ahought you was slick in the beginnin
But it teurned out you wouldn't lie
Looked me in my eye, I listened
Sucked it up, pushed on, we made amends, both sides clicked
True friends, since then, years done gon by
Brought a baby girl into this world, made our parents grandfolks
Household with no hope, took care of ye, you me
When shit got put out on the curb
Closer than the skin on the back of my hand
Through the thick and thin, we can win
Beautiful black skin
Well, I say you're my, beginnin my end
You're my sista lover and friend
God is, your light from within
It shines through your beautiful skin
What they, say bout you ain't true
There's no me if there is no you
I hope, that you understand
You got to respect yourself before I can
No need to compete, with the music loud
Or stairs cold, put on a scale, of one to ten, you a twelve
I chose, her over jail and hell
Originally from ATL
Compatible souls come together, under bad weather
To discuss distrust amongst the so-called
Good in every wo-man, how I wish this was true
I deal with facts only, already done cloned me
Why I sang the blues, when there's only one God
That watches over our every step, I need his help
When I'm walkin, lookin for the right female
I can't tell sometimes
They tell me the devil's comin humble in his approach
Spontaneous with the game
He caught the naive of a girl fallin for the OK
Let the pistol smoke the one you live by
Die by, examples of how relationships can be
I rolls the dice, takin a chance at crappin out
Like today boy, I lost one of my best hips
Natural thick lips, no animal fat implants
Wide load, just started workin at the airport
19 years old, worth more than her weight in gold
But it was all my fault, so don't cry, understand
If down the line I want you back and the feelin ain't mutual
Just promise me you'll find a new man that's bout some business
Hope she find what her was lookin for, like a dreamto my end
I wanted to be more than friends
Beautiful black skin (black skin)
Well, I say you're my, beginnin my end
You're my sista lover and friend
God is, your light from within
It shines through your beautiful skin
What they, say bout you ain't true
There's no me if there is no you
I hope, that you understand
You got to respect yourself before I can
Well, I say you're my, beginnin my end
You're my sista lover and friend
God is, your light from within
It shines through your beautiful skin
What they, say bout you ain't true
There's no me if there is no you
I hope, that you understand
You got to respect yourself before I can
Emerald Knight
One of the most beautiful hooks in Hip Hop history! ๐๐ผ
swacfan100
GOODIE MO - Bย don't get the respect & recognition they deserve, one of the most unique & talented groups EVER!
Kay-C
@Michael Olvera lol definitely better than west coast
Gr8fulnomad
This takes me straight back to riding around in high-school. Cee lo is โค๏ธ.
unpopular opinion
I play this and just stare at my BLACK QUEEN and hold back tears of pride. She's mine and GOD knows I deserve herโค๏ธ!
Derrick CTV
They banned making positive music for blackwomen about 20 years ago. Smh. This song is a masterpiece
Julaina Reid
Yes it is a MASTERPIECE and Goodie Mob needs their flowers โฅ๏ธ
J-Rock
They were truly ahead of their time! And their music is even more relevant now!!
Jarvase dundy
Goodie Mobb is for the soul and wise๐ฏ
Thomas Cain
It ainโt banned cause people can make whatever they want. Itโs just they choose to disrespect the ladies.