Guilty Until Proven Innocent
Jay-Z Lyrics

I thought this was America people!
Expressing surprise that people are assuming guilt before innocence, contrary to the ideals of the American justice system.

Uhh, yeah, guilty until proven innocent huh?
Acknowledging the unfortunate reality that many people are quick to assume guilt without evidence of wrongdoing.

That's how we workin huh? Okay
Accepting this unfortunate reality, but not approving of it.

Before me there was many; after me there will be none I am the one
Asserting dominance and confidence in his abilities, as well as indicating that he is one-of-a-kind as an artist.

Uh-huh, okay, I see how we playin Yeah, I get it down , anxiously the public can't wait Niggaz had to have it way before it's release date
Acknowledging that his music is highly anticipated and in demand, and commenting on the tendency of some people to seek out leaked versions before the official release.

Jigga get irate, press get it fucked up Took me one point eight but I had to get it straight
Asserting his frustration with the media's portrayal of him, and the need to correct any misunderstandings or inaccuracies in the reporting.

Get the CD, twelve inch vinyl, get the tape Jigga give out food for thought dog, get a plate
Encouraging people to seek out and purchase various forms of his music, and suggesting that his lyrics are rich with meaningful content that can be savored like a meal.

I get it down, get it krunk when I get in the state of mind That what's mine is mine, nobody get to take I don't bend, break, fold, scratch, go down My mental Rolodex see these words? I just don't know
Asserting his confidence and strength as an artist and a person, and noting that his wealth and artistry are not up for grabs or open to theft or copycats.

I know stress, drama, niggaz upsettin my mama Arrested, put in the lineup, tryin to put dents in my armor But I'm a survivor, plus I'm liver than most Out on bail, fifty thou', still ridin with toast
Admitting to experiencing stress and drama in his life, including legal troubles and attempts to undermine his reputation, but asserting that he is resilient and strong, and will not be defeated or deterred by attempts to bring him down.

I ain't tryin to collide with folk, But I don't want folk takin Jigga for joke I guess you niggaz just woke - good morning!
Asserting his desire to avoid conflict, but also warning anyone who would underestimate him or treat him as a joke that they will be proven wrong.

You can't touch me, no you can't touch me Jigga, Kelly, not guilty Try to charge me but I'm not guilty I got, all, my mamis Tell me, what you, want from me I'm not guilty
Asserting his innocence in the face of legal charges, and rejecting any attempts to undermine his credibility or artistic abilities. Also highlighting his success in attracting admirers.

I see how you comin' at me now, I'm cool I'm not the snitch I don't go to the cops to get rich I go to the block and pitch I go with the glock and click, I go with the pop I'm sick I go with you hard; I ain't gon' stop for shit
Rejecting any insinuation that he would betray his comrades in order to profit, and indicating that he will stand up for himself and his allies with force if necessary.

Look in my eyes dog, right in my pupils If I'm your rival, why would I have to do you? Press try to throw dirt on my name, disturbin' my game Seemed happy when they heard he was arraigned, glad he's indichted
Challenging anyone who would question his motives or suggest that he is a rival or enemy, and pointing out that the media seems to enjoy spreading negative rumors about him and celebrating his legal troubles.

Got big money, big lawyers to fight it Just like Cochran, cocksuckers you never see me boxed in Y'all all know it, Jigga's a fighter Plus I'm claustrophobic, back on the streets before you know it
Asserting that he has the resources to fight legal charges and will not be easily defeated, and indicating that he is uncomfortable in close quarters and prefers to be out and about in the world rather than confined to a cell.

And my word niggaz, I heard you niggaz I'm address each and every one of you cocksuckers Fuck the white press, the block love us, hip-hop forever B.I.G. is here, the soul of Tupac hovers, above us
Acknowledging any criticism or gossip directed his way, and asserting that he will address his detractors directly. Also championing the enduring popularity of hip-hop and the influence of two deceased icons of the genre.

So you can't touch me nigga, you can't touch me Said Jigga, Kelly, not guilty And I got, all my, mamis I don't, know why, y'all can't see that Y'all, dudes, can't touch me So tell me, what you, want from me Y'all, niggaz, can't touch me
Reiterating his confidence, defiance, and innocence, and indicating that he doesn't understand why some people are trying to bring him down. Asserting that no one can match his success or his appeal.