Final Hour
Ms. Lauryn Hill Lyrics

I treat this like my thesis
I approach this song like a serious academic project

Well-written topic, broken down into pieces
The song is a well-crafted, deeply considered subject that is explored systematically

I introduce then produce
I present and perform the song with skill and precision

Words so profuse it's abuse how I juice up this beat
The abundance and creativity of my lyrics is overwhelming and electrifying

Like I'm deuce, two people both equal
I am like a pair of inseparable twins, each equally important

Like I'm Gemini, rather Simeon
Like the mythical twins of the zodiac sign or the biblical brothers Simeon and Levi

If I Jimmy on this lock I could pop it
If I apply enough pressure and skill, I can overcome any obstacle or challenge

You can't stop it, drop it
You cannot prevent or interfere with the momentum or energy of the song

Your whole crew's microscopic
Your entire group is insignificant or irrelevant in comparison to me

Like particles while I make international articles
While I create and produce celebrated works of art that have international impact and reach

And on the cover
Regarding media coverage and public perception of me

Don't discuss the baby mother business
Avoid gossip and slander about my personal life and relationships

I been in this third LP you can't tell me, I witness
I have recorded multiple albums, I have experienced and observed firsthand the music industry and its challenges

First handed I'm candid
I am honest and transparent about my experiences, opinions, and emotions

You can't stand it, respect demanded
You may not like what I say or do, but you must acknowledge and honor my talent and integrity

And get flown around the planet
I am admired and celebrated around the world, and I get to travel and perform internationally

Rock Hard like granite or steel
My music is tough and resilient, like a solid rock material

People feel Lauryn Hill from New-Ark to Israel
My music resonates with and inspires people of different cultures and backgrounds, from my hometown to a distant country

And this is real, so I keep makin' the street's ballads
I am authentic and genuine in my music, so I continue to write and perform songs that relate to the struggles and joys of everyday people

While you lookin' for dressin' to go with your tossed salad
While you are preoccupied with superficial and trivial matters, I prioritize my creativity and expression

Now I be breaking bread sipping
I am enjoying food and drink with friends and family

Manichevitz wine
I am drinking kosher wine, symbolizing my Jewish heritage and traditions

Pay no mind party like it's 1999
I am enjoying the moment and having fun, regardless of the past or future

But when it comes down to ground beef like Palestine
But when it comes to serious and controversial issues, like the conflict in Palestine

Say your rhymes, let's see if that get you out your bind
Put your skills to the test and let's see if you can overcome your struggles

Now I'm a get the mozzarella like a Rockerfeller
Now I will obtain wealth and luxury like a member of the Rockefeller family

Still be in the church of Lalibela, singing hymns a cappella
Despite my success and status, I will remain spiritually grounded and connected to my African roots

Whether posed in Maribella in Couture
Whether I am photographed in a luxurious Mediterranean location, wearing designer clothes

Or collecting residuals from off The Score
Or earning royalties from The Fugees' successful album, The Score

I'm making sure I'm with the 144
I am committed to being part of a spiritually enlightened and select group, referred to in the Bible as the 144,000

I've been here before this ain't a battle, this is war
I have faced and overcome challenges before, and this current struggle is not a minor or isolated event, but a larger and deeper conflict

Word to Boonie
Shoutout to my friend or acquaintance named Boonie

I makes a lot like a Sunni
I earn a lot of money, like a member of the Sunni Muslim community

Get diplomatic immunity in every ghetto community
I have respect and influence in every disadvantaged or neglected community

Had opportunity went from Hoodshock to Hood-chic
I had the chance to transform my life from poverty and struggle to style and success

But it ain't what you cop, it's about what you keep
But it's not just about acquiring or consuming material goods, it's about how you use and preserve them

And even if there are leaks, you can't capsize this ship
Even if there are setbacks or challenges, my career and impact are too strong to be destroyed

'Cause I baptize my lips every time I take a sip
Because I affirm and renew my spiritual commitment and passion every time I drink

You can get the money!
You can obtain wealth and prosperity

You can get the power!
You can acquire influence and control

But keep your eyes on the Final Hour!
But remember that all this is temporary and finite, and focus on the larger and eternal perspective

Final Hour
The ultimate moment of truth and accountability, when all deeds and intentions are reckoned