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.
No Way Home
S.u.n. Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Inch by inch we grow, but you ain't gonna pass me
I watch that highway roll, it takes me where I'm bound
I never had a doubt, but then I came to find out
There's no way home
Time to break the code, 'cause it's a little but nasty
I watch that highway roll, it takes me where I'm bound
I never had a doubt, but then I came to find out
There's no way home
There's no way home
I watch that highway roll, it takes me where I'm bound
I never had a doubt, but then I came to find out
There's no way home
The lyrics of "No Way Home" by S.u.n. are reflective of life on the road and the feeling of being constantly on the move. The repeated phrase "watch that highway roll, it takes me where I'm bound" emphasizes the idea of being in motion and unable to escape the journey. The opening lines "Five days on the road, get a little bit nasty, inch by inch we grow, but you ain't gonna pass me" suggests the competitive nature of life on the road and the harsh realities that come with it. The phrase "get a little bit nasty" can be interpreted as the challenges and obstacles faced while traveling.
The lyrics then shift to a more introspective tone with "I've been bought and sold, so you'd better not ask me." This suggests that the singer has experienced some level of exploitation or hardship while on the road, but is still determined to continue the journey. The repetition of "there's no way home" underscores the idea that the road is a one-way ticket with no clear end in sight.
Overall, "No Way Home" is a song that captures the essence of life as a traveler or touring musician. It's a reminder that the journey is often as important as the destination and that sometimes the road can be a harsh and unforgiving place.
Line by Line Meaning
Five days on the road, get a little bit nasty
After traveling for a while, fatigue and stress might lead to tension and irritability.
Inch by inch we grow, but you ain't gonna pass me
Although progress may be slow, I won't let anyone outdo me or surpass me.
I watch that highway roll, it takes me where I'm bound
Observing the road ahead reminds me of my destination and keeps me focused.
I never had a doubt, but then I came to find out
I was once confident, but my experiences have taught me otherwise.
There's no way home
I feel trapped or lost and unable to return to a familiar or comfortable place.
Time to break the code, 'cause it's a little but nasty
It's time to reveal the truth, even though it might be unpleasant or challenging.
I've been bought and sold, so you'd better not ask me
I've been betrayed or manipulated, so I won't divulge any sensitive information.
There's no way home
The feeling of being stuck persists.
There's no way home
The repetition emphasizes the hopelessness of the situation.
I watch that highway roll, it takes me where I'm bound
Despite my circumstances, I keep moving forward with my plans and goals.
I never had a doubt, but then I came to find out
My previous certainty has been replaced by a newfound uncertainty.
There's no way home
The finality of the statement conveys a sense of despair or resignation.
Contributed by Vivian N. Suggest a correction in the comments below.