J-Live started his career by releasing solid 12" such as "Longevity", "Braggin' Writes", and "Hush the Crowd", which earned him a spot in The Source's "Unsigned Hype" column.
Recorded mostly at J's own Triple Threat Studios in Philadelphia, The Hear After actually seems to have taken on a life of its own. Guest vocalist on the album, include up and coming artist, Kola Rock, Cvees, and the soulful sounds of Virgin recording artist, Dwele. The album features production by Floyd the Locsmif (Atl), Hezekiah, James Poysner (Philly), Probe DMS, Fire Dept., (NYC), Oddisee (DC), and J-Live himself. "The title is a play on words. People think of the here after as the after life or somewhere you go when you die. Like heaven or hell. Me personally, I see heaven as being at peace with yourself while you're alive. I see hell as the path you choose in life as opposed to a place you go after death. The album is called The Hear After because I'm at peace with myself musically, and I've been through hell to get that way. This is what you "hear after" all that has transpired so far. This is what I've been working to accomplish since the last album."
Like J's last two full length records, The Best Part and All of the Above, The Hear After covers a wide range of thoughts and emotions both musically and with its subject matter. "If you were to look at the whole thing, you would see a story line about an artist trying to maintain and expand his career and still be there for his family. That was the biggest struggle while making the record, and its no coincidence that it's a theme that becomes obvious listening to it. But there are songs about almost every aspect of my life from growing up in the city, to raising kids, touring heavy, building and teaching, politics, party and bullshit. I can't just spit about one thing for a whole record. That's not my style."
J-Live has been rhyming and mixing since the age of 12 but he has made much more of a name for himself as an MC than as a DJ. "I definitely focus on rhyming more. Growing up doing both it was easier on the pockets to be an MC. Records and equipment can get expensive. But I love spinning." One of the highlights of his entertaining live show is when he rhymes and beat juggles on the turntables simultaneously, performing his classic, "Braggin' Writes." J-Live is also known to produce beats.
J-Live has always used music to get his messages across. He explains, "I grew up listening to everything from BDP to NWA, to PE [[artist]Public Enemy], Slick Rick, Big Daddy Kane, Nice and Smooth. Whether the music was pimped out, gangsta, militant or whatever, rappers had something important to say to kids like me. And I listened intently. As a 5%er, I can't imagine how much of an influence hip hop had on the way I see the world."
Case in point, J's favorite song on the album, "Audio Visual" is so descriptive it's a song "in 3-D". From the quirky, key accents to the thick-ass bottom running throughout the song, J-Live paints a colorful, picture of his life on and off the mic. "Brooklyn Public" is his ode to his days as an educator. Earlier in his career, J-Live taught middle school English/Language Arts in Brooklyn for a few years.
Making music for the walkmans as well as the Jeeps, J-Live made a mature, sonically sophisticated album. "I feel like I represent hip hop's middle class. Seems like everybody's either crying broke or screaming rich or both. I try to speak to the people in between. The everyday hard working fun loving hip hop heads."
Year Formed: 1995
Official Site: http://www.j-livemusic.com/
Can I Get It?
J-Live Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
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It was a summer mornin' at the age of eighteen
I'll start the story in the shower singin' Microphone Fiend
Tryna figure my routine for the day
There's mad things to do with no delay
In preparation for this jam around the way
Crossin' out the calendar
Pickin' out the afro and pullin' out the gear
I hear the same sounds every mornin'
Sports centre, the traffic
Your mom dukes screamin' in my ear
Dipped, yet my thoughts slip
Thinkin' that my plans just barely coincide with my money clip
But get a grip 'cause by the end of the day, bro
Your pockets'll be a-ight, even before the crowd says 'A-yo!'
I jet up to Lex, take the 6 to the are
My journey wouldn't feel as far if I had a car
5-O was there, so I paid my fare
But I didn't care 'til he gave a glare, who you tryna scare?
I'm passin' flyers to a crew of fly young sisters
A chicken from my past is actin' crab, so I had to diss her
My head bops and my fingers pops 'til I reach my stop
Then I mush my way through to the record shop
Can I get it one time for the selector?
Does he come correct in your sector?
Indoors or an outside jam
Can I get it if ya understand?
Verse 2
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As I exit stage right, lookin' forward to the night
It's official, Imma have this party packed tight like toilet tissue
What's the issue? I'm never comin' wack
We never lack the latest flavour, keepin' crates stacked
Buyin' records by the pack
With my knapsack filled as I chilled
On the see-Train, simple and plain, let me explain
I had to check my man Gee for his m-i-see
'cause the way we be mine simply couldn't maintain
As usual Gee was on C.P Time
But he came through with this mic, plus this bleeder light, right
My next step was to transport the system
Let's see, between me and my peeps five deep
We still had no ride
So I hailed a taxi, since the yellow's don't stop
And it don't quit, you know we went gypsy
Arrivin' on the scene at about eight-fifteen
To the same routine, some sheisty brother frontin' on my green
Never that, nah mean? Check this out, black
Skip the non-sense 'cause Imma say this just once
I want the money we discussed last week
Plus you're payin' for my ride
I'll take my loot upfront with no stunts, bro
Put your chequebooks away, no pay no J
No J no sound play, you make no profit, understand?
Plus your name was on the flyers so your rep'll be dead
What he said? Not a thing, he put the cash in my hand...
Can I get it one time for the selector?
Does he come correct in your sector?
Indoors or an outside jam
Can I get it if ya understand?
Can I get it one time for the selector?
Does he come correct in your sector?
Old school or a new school jam
Can I get it if ya understand?
Verse 3
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On the line perplexed, fixed to flex 'cause you're far from next
And the next one to bump you from the back gets his chin checked
But I don't know about that 'cause I'm already in there
And I got ya grinnin' when you hear your favourite record spinnin'
So skip it, 'cause now you're bouncin' to the door
But if you're riffin' with the bouncers
You'll be bouncin' straight up off the floor
So if you're mad at the security
(Sadat X: It don't mean jack to me...that's how it's supposed to be)
As I mix Walk on By over Passin' Me By
Seem like everybody puffin' but I'm contact high
Off this fresh new wax, with the real brown sugars makin' eye contact
React, what's the haps? It's digits or excuses?
I'm pullin' out the pen and she supplies the data
Flavour, but for now I got tracks to spin
So if you're stayin' til the end we can handle this later
Torturin' the fader, the Tech 12 freaker
The bass from the amps shake the stickers off the speaker
I don't claim to have the loudest sound in town
But from the inside it felt like the ground shaked from Lenox to Bleecker
Circles form, dance contests
Most know how I do while the rest make requests
But Imma play what you want to hear anyway
So get your boogie on and parley
Can I get it one time for the selector?
Does he come correct in your sector?
Old school or a new school jam
Can I get it if ya understand?
Can I get it one time for the selector?
Does he come correct in your sector?
Outside or an indoor jam
Can I get it if ya understand?
In J-Live's song "Can I Get It?" the artist tells a story about a day in his life as a hip-hop artist. The song begins with J-Live singing "Microphone Fiend" from Eric B. & Rakim's classic track. He talks about preparing for a show in his neighborhood, stepping out of the shower, crossing out dates on the calendar, and getting dressed. He describes taking the train to the area where the show will be held while passing flyers to a group of young women. In the chorus, he asks if he can "get it" from the crowd and the DJ, meaning, can he get the audience to understand his style of hip-hop and can the DJ come correct with the right beats to keep the party going.
In the second verse, J-Live talks about arriving at the venue and setting up his equipment for the show. He mentions buying records in bulk, taking a taxi since he had no car, and arranging for payment from the promoter. He stresses the importance of getting paid in advance, so he doesn't end up performing for free. The chorus repeats, asking if he can get it from the audience and the DJ.
In the final verse, J-Live describes playing music at the party, mixing old-school with new-school beats to keep everyone dancing. He mentions meeting a woman with whom he shares a moment of eye contact, and he intends to get her number later. He observes that some people request songs, while others are content to let him play whatever he wants to get the party going. The chorus repeats, as J-Live asks if he can get it from the crowd and the DJ. The song ends with J-Live's promise to keep the party going until the end.
Line by Line Meaning
It was a summer mornin' at the age of eighteen
The events of this story take place on a summer morning when I was eighteen years old.
I'll start the story in the shower singin' Microphone Fiend
I begin the day by singing Eric B. & Rakim's song 'Microphone Fiend' while taking a shower.
Tryna figure my routine for the day
I'm trying to plan out my activities and schedule for the day.
There's mad things to do with no delay
I have a lot of tasks and errands to complete, and I must do them quickly and efficiently.
In preparation for this jam around the way
I'm getting ready for a party or gathering that will happen in the neighborhood.
I'm steppin' out the shower
After finishing my shower, I step out of the bathroom.
Crossin' out the calendar
I mark off or cancel any conflicting events or appointments on my calendar.
Pickin' out the afro and pullin' out the gear
I style my hair into an afro and choose the clothes and accessories I will wear.
I hear the same sounds every mornin'
Every morning, I hear familiar sounds such as the Sports Centre on TV and the traffic outside.
Sports centre, the traffic
I hear the noise of the Sports Centre broadcast and the busy traffic outside my window.
Your mom dukes screamin' in my ear
Your mother is loudly scolding or complaining to me.
Dipped, yet my thoughts slip
Even though I try to avoid or ignore the negativity, negative thoughts still come into my mind.
Thinkin' that my plans just barely coincide with my money clip
I realize that my plans for the day are not aligning well with the amount of money I have in my wallet.
But get a grip 'cause by the end of the day, bro
However, I remind myself to stay calm and composed because by the end of the day, things will be okay, my friend.
Your pockets'll be a-ight, even before the crowd says 'A-yo!'
I reassure myself that my financial situation will be alright, even before people acknowledge or cheer at the gathering.
I jet up to Lex, take the 6 to the are
I quickly move or travel to Lexington Avenue and take the 6 train to my destination.
My journey wouldn't feel as far if I had a car
The distance I have to travel would feel shorter if I owned a car.
5-O was there, so I paid my fare
A police officer was present, so I paid the required fare to use public transportation.
But I didn't care 'til he gave a glare, who you tryna scare?
I initially paid without much concern, but when the police officer gave me a stern look, I questioned his intention and wondered who he was trying to intimidate.
I'm passin' flyers to a crew of fly young sisters
I distribute flyers to an attractive group of young women.
A chicken from my past is actin' crab, so I had to diss her
An old acquaintance, who is being hostile and unkind, receives a disparaging response from me.
My head bops and my fingers pops 'til I reach my stop
I nod my head and snap my fingers in rhythm to the music until I arrive at my destination.
Then I mush my way through to the record shop
I confidently and forcefully make my way through the crowd to reach the record shop.
Can I get it one time for the selector?
Can I receive some recognition or appreciation for the DJ?
Does he come correct in your sector?
Is the DJ skilled and proficient in playing the right music for your area or community?
Indoors or an outside jam
Regardless of whether it is an indoor or outdoor event
Can I get it if ya understand?
Can I have your support and approval if you comprehend and agree with my request or statement?
As I exit stage right, lookin' forward to the night
Leaving the venue or performance area on the right side, I am eager and excited for what the night holds.
It's official, Imma have this party packed tight like toilet tissue
I confidently declare that the party I am hosting will be filled to capacity, similar to tightly packed rolls of toilet tissue.
What's the issue? I'm never comin' wack
I question if there is any problem or disagreement because I always bring a high level of skill and quality to my performances.
We never lack the latest flavour, keepin' crates stacked
We always stay updated with the newest and most popular music, ensuring our collection of records is well-stocked.
Buyin' records by the pack
I frequently purchase records in bulk or large quantities.
With my knapsack filled as I chilled
As I relax and enjoy myself, my knapsack is full of records I can play.
On the see-Train, simple and plain, let me explain
On the subway train, without any complications, I want to clarify or elaborate on something.
I had to check my man Gee for his m-i-see
I needed to verify or inquire about something from my friend named Gee, pertaining to his 'm-i-see' or music inventory.
'cause the way we be mine simply couldn't maintain
Because the way we handle our business or activities cannot be sustained or continued in its current state.
As usual Gee was on C.P Time
As expected, Gee was running on 'C.P Time' or being consistently late or slow in his actions.
But he came through with this mic, plus this bleeder light, right
However, he eventually arrived with a microphone and a bright light, confirming his contribution or equipment.
My next step was to transport the system
My subsequent action was to move or carry the sound system.
Let's see, between me and my peeps five deep
Calculating and considering the number of people in my group, including myself, we were a total of five individuals.
We still had no ride
However, we still did not have access to a vehicle.
So I hailed a taxi, since the yellow's don't stop
Therefore, I flagged down a taxi because they are known to be more accessible than other vehicles on the road.
And it don't quit, you know we went gypsy
And the situation does not end or falter, you know we took on a nomadic or adventurous approach.
Arrivin' on the scene at about eight-fifteen
Reaching the location or venue at approximately eight-fifteen in the evening.
To the same routine, some sheisty brother frontin' on my green
Engaging in the typical or expected actions, a suspicious or deceitful individual is trying to deceive or take advantage of me financially.
Never that, nah mean? Check this out, black
I refuse to allow that to happen, you know what I mean? Listen to this, my friend.
Skip the non-sense 'cause Imma say this just once
Let's avoid unnecessary arguments or distractions because I will make this point very clear and concise.
I want the money we discussed last week
I expect to receive the amount of money we previously agreed upon during our discussion last week.
Plus you're payin' for my ride
Additionally, you are responsible for covering the cost of my transportation.
I'll take my loot upfront with no stunts, bro
I want to receive my payment immediately and without any drama or delays, my friend.
Put your chequebooks away, no pay no J
You can put away your checkbooks because if there is no payment, there will be no performance by J-Live.
No J no sound play, you make no profit, understand?
Without my involvement or performance, your event will lack entertainment value, resulting in no financial gain for you. Do you comprehend?
Plus your name was on the flyers so your rep'll be dead
Furthermore, since your name was prominently advertised on the flyers for this event, your reputation will suffer if I am not present or if there are issues.
What he said? Not a thing, he put the cash in my hand...
After hearing my demands, he remained silent and promptly handed me the agreed-upon payment in cash.
On the line perplexed, fixed to flex 'cause you're far from next
I'm observing the situation with a mix of confusion and determination because you are not the next in line or deserving of recognition.
And the next one to bump you from the back gets his chin checked
Anyone who attempts to disrupt or challenge you from behind will be met with force or a physical altercation.
But I don't know about that 'cause I'm already in there
However, I cannot speak for the outcome of that situation because I am already present and involved.
And I got ya grinnin' when you hear your favourite record spinnin'
I make you smile or feel joyous when I play your favorite song, and you hear it being played on the turntable.
So skip it, 'cause now you're bouncin' to the door
So disregard any potential conflict or issue because now you are leaving or exiting the venue.
But if you're riffin' with the bouncers
However, if you are causing trouble or arguing with the bouncers or security personnel,
You'll be bouncin' straight up off the floor
You will be forcefully removed or thrown out of the venue.
So if you're mad at the security
Therefore, if you are angry or upset with the security staff,
(Sadat X: It don't mean jack to me...that's how it's supposed to be)
(Sadat X: It doesn't hold any significance or affect me negatively...that's the expected outcome or reality).
As I mix Walk on By over Passin' Me By
While I blend or mix the songs 'Walk on By' and 'Passin' Me By' together.
Seem like everybody puffin' but I'm contact high
It appears that everyone is smoking marijuana, but I am experiencing the effects of being around others who are smoking, known as a contact high.
Off this fresh new wax, with the real brown sugars makin' eye contact
I am getting a pleasurable experience from listening to brand new vinyl records, mixed with the alluring and smooth sounds of 'real brown sugars,' while establishing eye contact with someone.
React, what's the haps? It's digits or excuses?
Respond, what's happening or what's the current situation? Is it about exchanging contact information or just making excuses?
I'm pullin' out the pen and she supplies the data
I take out a pen to write down or save her contact information while she provides the necessary details.
Flavour, but for now I got tracks to spin
This interaction has a positive vibe or appeal, but for the moment, I need to focus on playing music tracks.
So if you're stayin' til the end we can handle this later
Therefore, if you are not leaving soon, we can address this matter or continue the conversation at a later time.
Torturin' the fader, the Tech 12 freaker
I manipulate and control the fader on the turntable, demonstrating my expertise and mastery of the Technics SL-1200 turntable.
The bass from the amps shake the stickers off the speaker
The powerful bass from the amplifiers causes the stickers adhered to the artist to vibrate and fall off.
I don't claim to have the loudest sound in town
I am not asserting that I possess the most booming or powerful sound system in the city.
But from the inside it felt like the ground shaked from Lenox to Bleecker
However, from within the venue, it felt as though the ground was shaking or vibrating strongly from Lenox Avenue to Bleecker Street.
Circles form, dance contests
Groups or circles of people gather and engage in dance contests.
Most know how I do while the rest make requests
The majority of people are aware of my DJing skills and style, while others make specific song requests.
But Imma play what you want to hear anyway
Regardless, I will still play the songs you desire or prefer to listen to.
So get your boogie on and parley
Therefore, start dancing and enjoying yourself, and let's have a good time together.
Old school or a new school jam
Whether it is a classic or modern music selection
Outside or an indoor jam
Regardless of whether the event is held outdoors or indoors
Lyrics © THE ROYALTY NETWORK INC.
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind