Black History
PRhyme Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

Soon as I was born, I knew I was due to do some damage
Came out the womb, doctors passed me around the room and panicked
Four pounds, dark purple, couldn't even breathe on my own
Shakin' baby in an incubator, breathin' machine for my lungs
Doctor told my mom and pops they gon' have to keep me for a couple months
Papa regretting doin' coke, mama probably those couple blunts
Little did they know there was nothing to be ashamed of as long as we
Keep the unconditional love between us, I feel like the Mona Lisa
Hospital found out my pops had a lapse in his insurance
I learned just how people are quick to turn
The doctor came back and said, "We're gon' release him"
That's the same thing in my first deal the label head said
Same as the judge after 365 days in jail cells
You probably think my moms and pops ain't raise me well
Wait, please, I was hard-headed
The only person who could get through to me was maybe Jay-Z
They tried to give my autistic son medicine for ADHD
Same kid who could look at a piano and memorize all 88 keys
I learned everything I need to know at day one in the hospital
They gonna doubt you, nigga
And you can't even pay no one to care about you, nigga

As we proceed to give you what you need
Y'all know what it is
We'd like to welcome you to another round of hip-hop in it's purest form
On behalf of Heaven Studios and Works of Mart
We comin'

1966, March 21st
In July 17th, '61 marks the birth, the birth of two phenoms
I'm talking about Chris Edward Martin and Keith Edward Elam
This is for the real Gang Starr fans, not the ones who call us P-Rhyme
One come from Massachusetts, the other from Texas
Had a dream to become the next shit
Filled up his whole truck trunk with records and moved to New York
That's where Premier the god linked with Guru the lord
If ever duplicated, hell froze and there was a blue moon before it
And that shit birthed Group Home Freddie Foxxx, inspired shit
Like Jay Z, Nas, B.I.G, I'm just comin' clean like the Jeru song
Yo! MTV raps, Rakim in the back
Fab 5 Freddy in the hat interviewin' Chubb Rock
Pac in the cut with his boots and Juice on (RIP)
Pac still killin' to this day, still the one they tryna be
Y'all know I'm from Detroit
I'm diggin' in the crates, now I'm from the diamond-D
I ain't wit the showbiz, I'm just AG tryna sign me a Fat Joe deal
And go and ball and every bitch I got OG is on call, that's O.C
Bitch, I confess that I finesse
I smile at death like Malcolm X, I'm solid, yes, in '99
I told myself, if I could figure out how to bottle it, I'd be out of debt
Y'all niggas just novices, y'all can just move inside
I got that car pedestrian confidence, yessir, I got that Uber Drive
Y'all wanna know who the best is?
Look around at who alive and who done died (Then what?)
Then look at me, Kendrick Lamar and Pusha T
Em and the Slaughters, y'all don't have to look any farther for the rhymers
Y'all are the past, at the present time I'm the Future
'Cause all my competition tryin' be Desiigners
I'm just tired of being underrated by these lazy bloggers
They just tired of re-rewindin'
Y'all tired of me saying I'm the greatest? (Y'all tired yet?)
Fuck y'all, I'm tired of re-remindin'
I survived Vietnam and my city laid me a grave
Prem laced me boom-boom-God-damn with Lady of Rage
Since then I've been on my Jaimie and Rae, nobody seein' me
She douche, I give her dick she never forget, that's D and D
Preem, cut!

Come on back with me, this black history
Premier is on the wheels yeah we making black history
Come on back with me, this text book Big L and Pun on the real to real
That black history

I made up my mind, went to sleep dead
That's in the past I'm gon' wake up alive
We taking over this shit is shit




Preem cuttin'
Come on back with me this black history

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of PRhyme's song Black History are centered around the idea of personal struggles and triumph in life, as well as the historical legacy of black excellence in various forms of culture, particularly in hip-hop music. The song opens by describing the difficulties the rapper faced right from the beginning of his life, how he was born with only four pounds, dark purple skin, and was unable to breathe on his own, among other things. His parents were not wealthy enough to pay for his treatment, and he had to stay with the hospital for months. The song then transitions to the rapper's success story, how he overcame the challenges, including his son's autism diagnosis and the doctor's attempt to treat it with ADHD medicine, and was inspired by black historical figures like Malcolm X to strive for excellence.


The lyrics of Black History also make mention of significant dates in the birth and career of two hip-hop legends, Keith Edward Elam, and Chris Edward Martin, known as Guru and DJ Premier, respectively. The song pays tribute to Guru's Gang Starr and the birth of the duo, the different parts of the country where they come from, and their move to New York to pursue their dream of becoming greats in the music industry. The rapper contrasts himself with the past and present greats in the black culture, including Jay Z, Tupac, Nas, B.I.G, Desiigners, Kendrick Lamar, Pusha T, and Eminem. He also uses the song to vent his frustration about being underrated by bloggers despite his hard work and success.


Line by Line Meaning

Soon as I was born, I knew I was due to do some damage
From the moment I was born, I felt a strong sense of purpose and the potential to make a significant impact.


Came out the womb, doctors passed me around the room and panicked
When I was born, the doctors were startled by my appearance and had a moment of confusion and concern.


Four pounds, dark purple, couldn't even breathe on my own
I was a small and sickly baby, struggling to breathe and survive independently.


Shakin' baby in an incubator, breathin' machine for my lungs
I was placed in an incubator and relied on a machine to help me breathe, as I was physically weak and vulnerable.


Doctor told my mom and pops they gon' have to keep me for a couple months
The doctor informed my parents that I would need to stay in the hospital for several months due to my fragile condition.


Papa regretting doin' coke, mama probably those couple blunts
My father was filled with remorse for his past drug use, while my mother likely blamed herself for any harm caused during her prenatal period.


Little did they know there was nothing to be ashamed of as long as we
Unbeknownst to them, there was no reason to feel ashamed or guilty, as long as we maintained a bond of unconditional love.


Keep the unconditional love between us, I feel like the Mona Lisa
By preserving our unwavering love and support for each other, I feel as valuable and enigmatic as Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, the Mona Lisa.


Hospital found out my pops had a lapse in his insurance
The hospital discovered that my father had a gap in his insurance coverage, causing potential financial difficulties for my family.


I learned just how people are quick to turn
This experience taught me the harsh reality that people can easily change their attitudes and loyalties, particularly when faced with adversity.


The doctor came back and said, "We're gon' release him"
Eventually, the doctor returned and announced that it was time for me to be discharged from the hospital, indicating that I had recovered sufficiently.


That's the same thing in my first deal the label head said
The same sense of relief and freedom I felt when leaving the hospital was echoed when the head of the record label signed me to my first contract.


Same as the judge after 365 days in jail cells
Just like the feeling of liberation after spending a year in prison, I experienced a similar sense of freedom and redemption in my music career.


You probably think my moms and pops ain't raise me well
Some may assume that my parents didn't raise me properly, judging by the challenges and obstacles I had to overcome, but that is not the case.


Wait, please, I was hard-headed
Please hold on for a moment, as I have a confession to make - I was stubborn and resistant to guidance.


The only person who could get through to me was maybe Jay-Z
Out of all the influential figures, it was perhaps Jay-Z who could truly connect with me and have a positive influence on my life.


They tried to give my autistic son medicine for ADHD
Medical professionals attempted to prescribe medication typically used for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) to my autistic son, not fully understanding his condition.


Same kid who could look at a piano and memorize all 88 keys
Ironically, despite his challenges, my son possesses an incredible ability to visually memorize and recall all 88 keys on a piano.


I learned everything I need to know at day one in the hospital
The hospital experience taught me valuable life lessons that continue to shape my perspective and guide me.


They gonna doubt you, nigga
People will inevitably doubt and question your abilities and potential.


And you can't even pay no one to care about you, nigga
In a cruel reality, it is nearly impossible to bribe or financially influence someone to genuinely care about you or your well-being.


As we proceed to give you what you need
Moving forward, we will continue to provide you with the essential elements and content that you require.


Y'all know what it is
I assume you all are familiar with and aware of the situation and circumstances at hand.


We'd like to welcome you to another round of hip-hop in its purest form
Allow us to extend a warm welcome as we present to you another genuine and unadulterated display of hip-hop music.


On behalf of Heaven Studios and Works of Mart
Speaking on behalf of Heaven Studios and Works of Mart, we express our gratitude and appreciation for your support.


1966, March 21st
On March 21, 1966, a significant event or milestone took place.


In July 17th, '61 marks the birth, the birth of two phenoms
July 17, 1961, is the date that signifies the remarkable birth of two exceptionally talented individuals.


I'm talking about Chris Edward Martin and Keith Edward Elam
The individuals being referred to are Chris Edward Martin and Keith Edward Elam, who are notable figures in the music industry.


This is for the real Gang Starr fans, not the ones who call us P-Rhyme
This particular segment is dedicated to the genuine and dedicated fans of Gang Starr, rather than those who mistakenly refer to us as P-Rhyme.


One come from Massachusetts, the other from Texas
One of us hails from Massachusetts, while the other originates from Texas.


Had a dream to become the next shit
We both shared a common aspiration to achieve great success and recognition in the music industry.


Filled up his whole truck trunk with records and moved to New York
One of us packed the entire trunk of his truck with vinyl records and relocated to New York, eager to pursue his musical ambitions.


That's where Premier the god linked with Guru the lord
It was in New York where Premier, who is often revered and respected as a godlike figure within the music industry, formed a powerful connection with Guru, who is similarly regarded as a revered lord of hip-hop.


If ever duplicated, hell froze and there was a blue moon before it
Our collaboration and partnership were so unique and unprecedented that it would be utterly impossible to replicate, as if hell froze over or a rare blue moon appeared.


And that shit birthed Group Home Freddie Foxxx, inspired shit
Our groundbreaking and influential work led to the formation and emergence of other notable artists, such as Group Home and Freddie Foxxx, and sparked a wave of inspired creativity.


Like Jay Z, Nas, B.I.G, I'm just comin' clean like the Jeru song
Similar to the honesty and transparency found in Jeru the Damaja's song, I am revealing my true self and speaking candidly, just like Jay Z, Nas, and The Notorious B.I.G did in their music.


Yo! MTV raps, Rakim in the back
Drawing from the golden era of hip-hop, I reminisce about the influential show 'Yo! MTV Raps' and the legendary Rakim's presence in the background.


Fab 5 Freddy in the hat interviewin' Chubb Rock
I recall the iconic Fab 5 Freddy, known for his distinctive hat, conducting an interview with the talented Chubb Rock.


Pac in the cut with his boots and Juice on (RIP)
I pay tribute to the late Tupac Shakur, who was often found in a hidden or discreet area, rocking his signature boots and referencing his role in the film 'Juice.' May he rest in peace.


Pac still killin' to this day, still the one they tryna be
Despite his untimely passing, Tupac's influence and impact continue to resonate and inspire others, as he remains the one that many aspire to emulate.


Y'all know I'm from Detroit
It should be well-known that I hail from the city of Detroit.


I'm diggin' in the crates, now I'm from the diamond-D
As an artist, I am actively searching and exploring the archives, often associated with digging in crates for vinyl records, and I now proudly represent the diamond-shaped city of Detroit.


I ain't wit the showbiz, I'm just AG tryna sign me a Fat Joe deal
I am not interested in superficial aspects of the music industry, as I am simply focused on pursuing a deal similar to what AG, a fellow artist, has with Fat Joe.


And go and ball and every bitch I got OG is on call, that's O.C
If I secure such a deal, I intend to succeed and enjoy the luxuries it brings, including having a roster of attractive women who are always available, similar to how O.C., a rapper, boasts about his lifestyle.


Bitch, I confess that I finesse
I boldly admit that I have perfected the art of skillfully maneuvering and manipulating situations, particularly when it comes to achieving success.


I smile at death like Malcolm X, I'm solid, yes, in '99
Similar to the unwavering courage and resilience displayed by Malcolm X, I fearlessly face death with a smile, knowing my strength and resolve were solidified in the year 1999.


I told myself, if I could figure out how to bottle it, I'd be out of debt
I made a personal promise that if I could discover a way to capture and commercialize my unique talents and abilities, I would overcome financial struggles and be free from debt.


Y'all niggas just novices, y'all can just move inside
Compared to me, who has honed my craft and achieved a high level of proficiency, you are merely beginners and should retreat or step aside.


I got that car pedestrian confidence, yessir, I got that Uber Drive
My confidence is on par with that of a pedestrian crossing the street, while also possessing the determination and drive typically seen in Uber drivers.


Y'all wanna know who the best is?
I sense a collective desire to identify and determine who truly holds the title of being the best in the industry.


Look around at who alive and who done died (Then what?)
To find the answer, observe the current artists, as well as those who have passed away (And what should you do next?).


Then look at me, Kendrick Lamar and Pusha T
Finally, direct your attention to me, Kendrick Lamar, and Pusha T, as we are the ones who embody greatness.


Em and the Slaughters, y'all don't have to look any farther for the rhymers
In addition to us, consider Eminem and the members of Slaughterhouse, as they are the definitive and exemplary lyricists in the industry.


Y'all are the past, at the present time I'm the Future
While you may have been influential in the past, I am currently leading the way as an artist who represents the future of the genre.


'Cause all my competition tryin' be Desiigners
The artists attempting to outdo me and establish themselves as my rivals are essentially imitating and emulating the style of Desiigner.


I'm just tired of being underrated by these lazy bloggers
The constant underestimation and lack of recognition from these lazy, uninspired bloggers has become tiresome and frustrating.


They just tired of re-rewindin'
These bloggers are simply exhausted from repeatedly revisiting and acknowledging my exceptional talent and the need to appreciate it.


Y'all tired of me saying I'm the greatest? (Y'all tired yet?)
Are you all tired of hearing me assert that I am the greatest artist? (Have you grown weary from my repeated declarations yet?)


Fuck y'all, I'm tired of re-remindin'
I don't care about your opinions anymore, as I am weary of having to continuously remind you of my incredible skills and achievements.


I survived Vietnam and my city laid me a grave
I have metaphorically endured the hardships and challenges of war, just like a soldier in Vietnam, while my hometown attempted to bury me with its negativity and setbacks.


Prem laced me boom-boom-God-damn with Lady of Rage
Premier, the talented producer, provided me with an exceptional and powerful instrumental, featuring the remarkable vocals of Lady of Rage.


Since then I've been on my Jaimie and Rae, nobody seein' me
Ever since that moment, I have been following in the footsteps of Jaimie and Rae, referring to the legendary Jamie Foxx and Ray Charles, ensuring that no one can compare or surpass my greatness.


She douche, I give her dick she never forget, that's D and D
I engage in intimate activities with women who may initially appear distant or uninterested, but once I provide them with a memorable experience, they can't help but remember and desire more. Thus, we engage in a memorable encounter referred to as D and D.


Preem, cut!
Premier, the esteemed producer, performs a scratch or cut on the turntables to mark the end of the song or segment.


Come on back with me, this black history
Join me as we embark on a journey through the rich and significant history of Black people.


Premier is on the wheels yeah we making black history
Premier, the skillful DJ, is in control of the turntables, contributing to the creation and preservation of Black history through our musical endeavors.


Come on back with me, this text book Big L and Pun on the real to real
Let's delve deeper into the pages of history, exploring the legacies and contributions of iconic figures like Big L and Pun, as we capture their essence through our authentic and genuine music.


That black history
Embrace and celebrate the rich heritage and achievements of Black people throughout history - that is what black history truly signifies.


I made up my mind, went to sleep dead
I made a firm decision and mentally prepared myself for the worst, almost as if I metaphorically died before going to sleep.


That's in the past I'm gon' wake up alive
However, that negative mindset is now behind me, as I wake up with a renewed sense of life and purpose.


We taking over this shit is shit
We, as Black artists, are asserting our dominance and reclaiming our rightful place in the music industry.


Prem cuttin'
Premier continues to skillfully cut and scratch on the turntables, showcasing his expertise and adding dynamic elements to the music.


Come on back with me this black history
Join me as we travel together through the captivating and significant narrative of Black history.




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: Ryan Daniel Montgomery, Christopher Edward Martin, Anthony Reid

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

Kactus JaxSon

I feel like this song can get me through anything. 🔥🔥💯

Anthony Simpson

Man when the track changed up..probably one of the best I've heard!!! I went crazy!!! This is HARD!!!

farouk meah

Anthony Simpson salute

Emanating Faucet

+Anthony Simpson yeah man it's a beautiful imitation of J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League's production style with Premo's touch applied to it.

Lucien Augustin

I agree. When the second beat dropped I flipped

jeevesish

There’s really no feeling in the world to me that describes how i feel when Royce just rips open the dictionary & delivers a lyrical onslaught, seriously this man’s wordplay is absolutely bananas!!! 🙏💯🔥🙌

zarish74

Dj premier - without a shadow of a doubt the best Producer ever!!!!

Brian Bish

Its not even arguable. Preemo's catalog stretches 30 years worth of amazing beats for hundreds of artists, across a few different genres and so many sub-genres. Untouchable. And he's still on top of his game!!!!! Noone is really even close.

Cristian Rosario

zarish74 large professor

Roc Cygnus

Definitely one of em

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