Raised in Cali, communicating a message as an artist … Read Full Bio ↴The Sho Story:
Raised in Cali, communicating a message as an artist has always been a part of who Sho is. Introduced to Hip Hop at a young age, he grew to love its content and attitude. Living in Southern California during the height of Gangsta Rap presented its challenges to many youth, as well as Sho. In high school Sho and some friends from his neighborhood formed a rap group that began touring with major recording artists. But his life took a different turn after the rap group fizzled, and close friends were killed and others incarcerated due to the gang life they led. The message of his life began to change.
He decided to heed his father's advice and apply to college, pursuing education instead of the streets. At the time, Christ was not a part of his life, but his older brother, his father, and a leader at his church, had always promoted education and having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Sho continued on to Tuskegee University, and it was there, that the seeds that they planted in him finally took root.
While in college, through the lives of some solid Christians on campus, the Lord rescued him and redeemed his heart. Sho's message changed from promoting himself and Hip Hop to promoting Christ, and now he wants the world to see the Lord at work in him. Our popular culture today elevates the lifestyles of rappers who promote ideas that only destroy our culture, but because of God's grace Sho has a different message: "Turn My Life Up"
What if the Programmed Culture could see the change Christ made in him and be transformed by God's Grace to impact lives and revolutionize our world? Not desiring fame or personal glory, Sho invites you to listen to his message and see how God can "Rebuild the Culture"
30 & Up 1986
Sho Baraka Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
You gotta grow up eventually
DJ play this song, play this song, DJ, maybe we could change the world
DJ play this song, play this song, DJ, maybe we could change the world
Excuse me um I'm going to make it through the crowd bruh
I'm just trying to dance with nostalgia
Classy and charming and beautifully dressed
If looks could kill she about to do death
Better take a pic make it quick Instagram it
Too old for skinny jeans too young for linens
Got a young man's fresh with an old man's wisdom
A diamond leader respect it up on the block
You got your band two knocks twist curls on locks Eddie Murphy Boomerang
You the flavor Halle Berry Sweet Thing
We can be more I can still be your king
You a Tracee Ellis Ross Queen child of The Supreme
I'm talking about love they're talking about lust
They don't want to grow up but we 30 and up!
Talk that talk you better walk that walk
Girl you know we got to work to stay in love
When I'm feeling high when I'm feeling low
You change my world with every touch
All I know is that you're 30 and up
Keep moving you got my heart and got my soul don't stop because you're 30 and up
Keep moving you got my heart and got my soul don't stop because you're 30 and up
Yo DJ What happened to the love song? Hey you take requests?
They say that real love is gone
You a lie tell him that we got it
There's no limit to our love tell him that we 'bout It (Uhhh!!)
Haters can't touch this we Too Legit to Quit all we need is some Hammer pants and an s-curl kit
Some will celebrate someone want you to struggle
Don't get bent out of shape but just keep those Squares Out Your Circle
We too mature to be acting like teenagers
Acting like I'm fake to impress these strangers somebody must have found the Fountain of Youth. Bottled it up and didn't give that bottle to you!
We stay dating with no expiration put the kids to sleep and have adult conversations
Far from drunk but what's in my cup is only for the heads in the room that's 30 and up
Talk that talk you better walk that walk
Girl you know we got to work to stay in love
When I'm feeling high when I'm feeling low
You change my world with every touch
All I know is tonight
If you're ready to have a good time and leave your kids at home
Let me hear you say yeah, say yeah
Yeah and if you're all grown-up, too fly show nothing but love
Let me hear you say yeah, yeah
DJ play this song, play this song, DJ, maybe we can change the world
DJ play this song, play this song, DJ, maybe we can change the world
Yeah. Go back in time and tell the younger me
Don't rush through life, move slowly
Don't be a player, trying to collect trophies
Don't break hearts, you just you just end up lonely!
"30 & Up 1986" by Sho Baraka is a reflection on maturity, love, and self-awareness. The opening lines emphasize the importance of personal growth and evolving beyond a state of ignorance or immaturity. The repetition of urging the DJ to play the song to potentially change the world suggests a desire for positive impact and societal transformation through music.
The verses delve into themes of nostalgia, style, and relationships. The singer describes themselves as classy, charming, and conscious of their appearance, opting for a fresh ensemble that blends youthfulness with wisdom. They acknowledge the duality of their age, feeling too old for certain trends yet too young for others, embodying a balance of experience and vitality. The references to pop culture icons like Eddie Murphy and Halle Berry add depth to the narrative, painting a picture of cultural relevance and influence.
The chorus emphasizes the transformative power of love and the importance of maintaining a connection through both highs and lows. The repetition of "30 and up" serves as a reminder of the age and maturity of the singer, highlighting the idea that with age comes a deeper understanding of love and commitment. The lyrics celebrate the strength of adult relationships and the resilience required to navigate the complexities of romance and intimacy.
The bridge confronts societal expectations and challenges stereotypes surrounding aging and love. The singer dismisses the notion that true love no longer exists, asserting that their relationship defies limitations and stereotypes. The lyrics express a sense of defiance towards negativity and superficiality, advocating for authenticity and self-assurance in one's relationships. The reference to the "Fountain of Youth" symbolizes a rejection of societal pressure to remain forever young, instead embracing maturity and experience as sources of strength and wisdom. Overall, "30 & Up 1986" offers a poignant reflection on love, growth, and the complexities of navigating adulthood with sincerity and grace.
Line by Line Meaning
I mean you can't be stupid your whole life
It's important to mature and grow up at some point in life.
You gotta grow up eventually
It's time to take on responsibilities and act like an adult.
DJ play this song, play this song, DJ, maybe we could change the world
Music has the power to inspire change and make a difference in the world.
Excuse me um I'm going to make it through the crowd bruh
I'm determined to navigate through challenges and obstacles.
I'm just trying to dance with nostalgia
I want to enjoy the past and reminisce on good memories while moving forward.
Classy and charming and beautifully dressed
Looking good and feeling confident in my appearance.
Of course I'm looking fresh in my fedora and vest
Feeling stylish and well put together in my outfit.
If looks could kill she about to do death
She looks so stunning that she could captivate with her beauty.
Better take a pic make it quick Instagram it
Capture the moment and share it with others on social media.
Too old for skinny jeans too young for linens
In between fashion trends, trying to find my own style.
Got a young man's fresh with an old man's wisdom
Feeling youthful but also wise beyond my years.
A diamond leader respect it up on the block
Being a respected figure in the community and leading by example.
You got your band two knocks twist curls on locks Eddie Murphy Boomerang
Rocking a unique hairstyle inspired by 90s fashion trends.
You the flavor Halle Berry Sweet Thing
Having a sweet and irresistible presence like Halle Berry.
We can be more I can still be your king
We have the potential for a deeper connection and lasting love.
You a Tracee Ellis Ross Queen child of The Supreme
You have the grace and elegance of a queen, embodying strength and beauty.
I'm talking about love they're talking about lust
Focusing on meaningful relationships while others prioritize shallow desires.
They don't want to grow up but we 30 and up!
Despite others resisting maturity, we embrace being adults and all the wisdom that comes with it.
Talk that talk you better walk that walk
Follow through on your words with actions and stay true to yourself.
Girl you know we got to work to stay in love
Maintaining a healthy and loving relationship takes effort and dedication.
When I'm feeling high when I'm feeling low
You lift me up when I'm happy or down, showing unconditional support.
You change my world with every touch
Your presence and love have a profound impact on my life.
If you're ready to have a good time and leave your kids at home
Let loose and enjoy yourself without worrying about responsibilities for the night.
Let me hear you say yeah, say yeah
Express your excitement and enthusiasm for the moment.
Yeah and if you're all grown-up, too fly show nothing but love
If you're mature and confident, spread positivity and love to others.
Go back in time and tell the younger me
Reflecting on past mistakes and wishing to give advice to my younger self.
Don't rush through life, move slowly
Take your time and savor each moment, don't rush through life.
Don't be a player, trying to collect trophies
Avoid playing games and seeking validation, focus on genuine relationships.
Don't break hearts, you just you just end up lonely!
Hurtful actions lead to loneliness and regret, treat others with care and respect.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Amisho Baraka Lewis
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@bjenks2
Still in the rotation in 2019! Sho is soooooo underrated! I thank God for you brother! Keep reppin" the Kingdom!
@mrceazohawk
big s/o to Sho for having his wife in the video. #salute love this video on every level
@WWMills32
"You look like you aint even suppose to be here. You look like you in the 2000's, it's the 80's." lol
@marlvindube
mayyyn this track got me wanting to be 30 & I'm just 90s baby
@kendrickbanks87
Haha! This is great for so many reasons.
"You look like you in tha 2000's. It's the 80's"
@bertramzeek8592
They got my dude David stuck outside just cuz he's 29. lol
@borntobewild4708
Bertram Zeek I was wondering of anybody else caught that too! 😂😂😂
@CarlosGarcia-507
If you didn't stop whatever it was you were doing and groove to this I don't know what you are doing with your life!! 30&UP!!!!
@walkerdrae
makes you feel good to be 30& ☝
@ericnancewoehler3888
feels pretty good being 48, even.