Same Cry
Jin feat LT Lyrics

We may look different but we see the same sky
Regardless of our differences, we all share the same natural surroundings

We may see different but we cry the same cry
Despite our diverse backgrounds, we all experience the same heart-wrenching pain, no matter what language we speak or country we come from

To wake up daily and sleep better nights
The universal desire for an improved standard of living, where every day is a fresh start and each night is peaceful

That's what we all wish for to seek a better life right?
The yearning for a more fulfilling life is a shared characteristic of all human beings

It's unfortunate when tragedy strikes
It's unfortunate when life-changing events occur

But the truth is reality bites
The honesty of life can be harsh and unpleasant, but necessary to acknowledge

June 4th '89 a day residents feared
The day that Chinese citizens feared due to the historic Tienanmen Square protests and resulting massacre

Now known as the massacre at Tienamen Square
The place where the Chinese government responded to the pro-democracy movement with military force, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries

The day I turned seven they were mourning and grieving
Jin's personal recollection of the day he turned seven and witnessed the impact of the Tienanmen Square massacre on his community

Thousands of innocent died for what they believed in
The innocent victims of the Tienanmen Square protests were passionate about their beliefs and were willing to risk their lives for what they thought was right

Armed with nothing but heart and a point to prove
The protestors had no physical weapons, only their conviction and determination to seek change

Stood in front of tanks and refused to move
A powerful image of the protestors standing up against the tanks sent to disrupt their demonstrations

What would you do? run or stand still
A reflection of the challenging decision one must make when faced with a difficult situation that goes against their beliefs and values

When a lifes on the line and they test a man's will
Under high-pressure circumstances, one's determination and values are tested

Seeking change and they found it but in death
The Tienanmen Square protests ultimately resulted in tragic consequences for many of their participants

Strangers yet they were my blood and flesh
Although Jin may not have known the victims personally, their shared identity as Chinese citizens highlights the close bond between fellow countrymen

This happened in China but you ain't gotta be Asian to relate
While the Tienanmen Square protests occurred in China, the themes of social activism and fighting for one's beliefs are universally applicable

To the struggle pain and heartache so
Acknowledgment of the presence of hardship and pain in life, and the resulting importance of perseverance and resilience

You'll never know you'll never get it
It is difficult to understand the struggles of others if one has not experienced them firsthand

There is no choice we can't forget it
Sometimes events occur that have a profound impact and cannot be ignored or forgotten

If you don't know where you came from
Understanding one's history and roots is crucial to making progress and moving forward in life

You can't get to where you trying to go
Without a strong foundation of understanding one's background, progress in life may be limited or impossible

Ain't no denying so
This is an indisputable fact

It's true I got some big shoes to fill
Jin realizes that as a prominent figure in the Asian-American community, he has a responsibility to be a positive role model and make progress towards justice for his people

But if I don't lead the movement than who will?
Jin feels a strong sense of accountability to represent his community and make a positive impact

Stuck between a rock and a hard place
Jin feels trapped between competing interests and responsibilities

Thinkin' bout the refugees that went to see God's face
Jin reflects on the individuals who have lost their lives while seeking refuge in foreign lands, either due to political unrest or natural disasters

Sixteen-thousand miles across the ocean tides
A vast distance that separates Asian communities from one another and their individual struggles

Some died some got lucky and survived
Some individuals have sacrificed their lives while others have managed to achieve success despite facing immense obstacles

Modern day slavery without the plantation
The exploitation and oppression of laborers around the world through low wages and inhumane working conditions

Them sneakers on your feet cost a hundred a pop
The high cost of sneakers in Western countries, which contrasts with the low wages paid to workers in the factories that produce them

My people's making fifteen cents a day and sweat shots
A powerful juxtaposition that highlights the stark contrast between the wages paid to workers in Asia and the exorbitant prices paid by consumers in Western countries

To make them kicks so you can look good
The consumerist culture in Western countries that values material possessions at the expense of others' well-being

Hell no we ain't got no choice
Jin highlights the lack of options available to impoverished individuals in his homeland

I gotta speak up without me my people have no voice
Jin understands that his influence as an artist can be used to amplify the voices of those who may not otherwise be heard