The itch to put out a solo album became overwhelming as some of his music and lyrics were only relevant for a solo release. Sun's always made his music for himself first, so in late '97 Sun began recording his tour-de-force, "Shining Underground" and brought his whole vision to life.
With the release of this album, Sun has not only received the love and respect of his hip-hop community, but has received high praise from some in the music press. MTV on-line writer, Christina Branson, had this to say of his performance at U of M, Michigan: "Hip Hop phenomenon S.U.N. aka Santonio Hughbanks lit up Club Heidleberg with sweet beats and lyrical finesse. The promising rapper dropped verses from his debut album "Shining Underground" (Black Soul On Vinyl) causing the crowd to bob their heads and chant: S.U.N." Underground Soundz Magazine confirms "distinct styles and hard edged lyrical delivery... advanced poetical stylings... definitely some of the most exciting hip hop to come from Michigan." His music has been used as sound track for an independent film. His current album continues to sell heavily in the midwest and across the nation.
"T.H.U.G. (True Heart Under Ground)" is the first single from the album. Sun views himself and many in his community as "underground", not just in music, but in life... struggling underground, away from the system. He redefines the term thug- taking away from its original meaning. "Shining Underground" is another highlight from the album giving enlightening insight into the mind of a free thinker. On "Just For a Minute" his ingenious sampling of Q-Tip's very recognizable line from "Got Til It's Gone" by Janet Jackson makes a pleasing backdrop for his lyricism. The album features several other rappers including Invincible, Paradime, Mr. Sinns, Browne & Bizarre.
Production was handled by relative newcomer Tink Thomas for Produk Productions. His hip hop tracks are structured and clean. Thomas is a unique new talent in his own right.
Off stage, S.U.N. is relaxed and contemplative. His live shows are spontaneous; "it's the point when God manifests." With that said, you can be sure freestyle will be a present element. One of his personal quotes is "Underground music should be felt not heard."
S.U.N. is looking to sign to a major or well poised independent who knows how to break a hip hop artist nationally with DJs, media and retail. Silent Records is quickly becoming well known for its high standards in hip hop's purist style. The label is positioning itself to be picked up by a heavyweight distributor or label.
I'm Gone
S.u.n. Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I just sit here and I stare at the sun
When the people sipping poison think it's holy water
What have we done
They say don't roll with the devil
But the devil couldn't roll with me
Well my hairs so disheveled
Cutting ties with them broken beliefs
I'm gone
Well I'm gone
Sorry I'm gone
I got my head spinning sideways
Got my eyes on the highway again
Take a look don't be frightened
By thunder and the fire within
They say I'm scared for you baby
Don't get hurt, don't be crazy you know
Well I can't take the restrictions
On my heart, mind, body, and soul
Well I'm gone
I'm gone
I'm gone
Sorry I'm gone
And I know
Somewhere deep in my
And I know
Can't bring you peace of mind
And I know
Somewhere deep in my... soul
Like a moth to a flame thinking damn what a shame but
I'm gone
I'm gone
I'm gone
I'm gone
I'm gone
Sorry I'm gone
And I know
Somewhere deep in my
And I know
Can't bring you peace of mind
And I know
Somewhere deep in my... soul
Like a moth to a flame thinking damn what a shame but
I'm gone
The lyrics of S.u.n.'s song "I'm Gone" touch on themes of disillusionment, breaking away from harmful influences, and the internal struggle of finding one's true self. The opening lines, "While the world spins in circles, I just sit here and I stare at the sun," suggest a feeling of detachment and contemplation amidst the chaos of the world. The singer is observing the negative actions of others, represented by those who drink poison but mistake it for holy water, highlighting the hypocrisy and destructive nature of certain beliefs and actions.
The lyricist then acknowledges the advice to not associate with negativity ("They say don't roll with the devil, but the devil couldn't roll with me"), hinting at a rebellious spirit and a desire to distance themselves from toxic influences. The reference to disheveled hair symbolizes a shedding of old ideas and cutting ties with broken beliefs.
The chorus, with its repetition of "I'm gone" and the phrase "Sorry I'm gone," reflects a sense of departure and the decision to move away from the old self and the negativity surrounding it. It conveys a feeling of freedom from the restrictions and limitations imposed on the heart, mind, body, and soul.
The second half of the song delves into the internal struggle and doubts that arise from this departure. The lines "They say I'm scared for you baby, don't get hurt, don't be crazy, you know" suggest the concern and caution of others towards the singer's journey of self-discovery. However, the artist is determined to break these restrictions and find their own path.
The repetition of "I'm gone" in the final chorus adds emphasis to the sense of departure and separation from the old life. The mention of being like a moth to a flame signifies a recognition of the potential dangers and regrets that may come with this decision, but ultimately the choice has been made to move on.
Overall, "I'm Gone" is a song about emancipation, shedding old beliefs, and finding one's own truth, even if it means leaving behind the familiar and facing uncertainty.
Line by Line Meaning
While the world spins in circles
While everything around me remains chaotic and repetitive
I just sit here and I stare at the sun
I am simply idle, observing the brightness and warmth of life
When the people sipping poison think it's holy water
When individuals consume harmful influences believing it to be beneficial
What have we done
What actions or choices have led us to this point
They say don't roll with the devil
They advise against associating with negative influences
But the devil couldn't roll with me
However, even negative forces cannot match my strength or resilience
Well my hairs so disheveled
My appearance reflects the turmoil within me
Cutting ties with them broken beliefs
I am detaching myself from flawed ideologies and notions
Well I'm gone
I have departed from this situation or mindset
Sorry I'm gone
Apologies for no longer being present or engaged
I got my head spinning sideways
I am experiencing confusion or disorientation
Got my eyes on the highway again
I am focused on moving forward and leaving behind the past
Take a look don't be frightened
Observe without fear or apprehension
By thunder and the fire within
By the intense passion and energy residing within me
They say I'm scared for you baby
Others express concern for your well-being
Don't get hurt, don't be crazy you know
Avoid harm or recklessness, you understand
Well I can't take the restrictions
I cannot tolerate the limitations imposed upon me
On my heart, mind, body, and soul
Regarding my emotions, thoughts, physical self, and essence
And I know
I am aware
Somewhere deep in my
In the depths of my being
Can't bring you peace of mind
I cannot provide tranquility or serenity to you
Like a moth to a flame thinking damn what a shame but
Similar to an easily attracted and ultimately doomed moth, it is regrettable
I'm gone
I have vanished or departed
And I know
I am aware
Somewhere deep in my... soul
Buried within the depths of my soul
Sorry I'm gone
Apologies for my absence or departure
I'm gone
I have vanished or departed
I'm gone
I have vanished or departed
I'm gone
I have vanished or departed
I'm gone
I have vanished or departed
I'm gone
I have vanished or departed
Lyrics Β© O/B/O DistroKid
Written by: Brian Penczak
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind