Kanye 2009
Sho Baraka Lyrics

How, Jay!?
Starting the song with a shout-out to Jay-Z to signify the connection between the two rappers.

This is my Kanye rant
Comparing his thoughts and opinions to those of Kanye West and the legendary rapper's tendency to share his thoughts unapologetically.

Can I talk for a minute, yeah Can I talk for a second, yeah Can I talk Let me talk
Asking for permission to speak out and share his thoughts on various topics.

You better watch your mouth I'd rather pray for forgiveness for what might come out Lord, have mercy on the words I speak I'll have an opinion but might change my views next week
Acknowledging that he may say unpopular or controversial things and may have a change of heart. Praying for forgiveness in advance and asking for mercy when choosing to express his opinion.

Like why, when I share my faith it's called intolerance But when they share their hate it's called scholarship
Questioning why expressing one's faith is seen as intolerant while expressing hate is seen as scholarship or academic freedom.

And why ain't no Whole Foods in the hood All I see is fast food here, can we eat good? We need black-owned, and less bad loans Less liquor shops and pawn shops and we by gold
Highlighting the need for equal access to healthy food options and black-owned businesses. Criticizing the proliferation of liquor stores and pawn shops in low-income neighborhoods.

And why (shut up) black history always start with slavery So even when I'm learning they still putting them chains on me
Questioning the limited focus on slavery in black history education and how it still affects the way he is perceived and treated to this day.

Yo, can I speak for a minute? Why everybody on Twitter try to be prolific Try to be so gifted, to those typos go swipe on your image Get a filter for that [?] It's a privilege in fact
Questioning the need for constant tweeting and the obsession with appearing impressive or gifted online. Implying that it's a privilege to have access to certain tools like filters and photo-editing apps.

That's like, Stop asking me about the lack of female rappers You rappers ain't even ready for what's gone happen after
Challenging the idea that male-dominated hip-hop culture can dictate the future of the entire genre. Pointing out that female rappers will eventually have their time and male rappers should support rather than hinder them.

We busy being mothers while you chasing platforms You fat for them you living backwards No wonder why you salty Lot's wife taught him well On why the Sodom call me Probably cause I'm snatching bodies out the fire falling Light a match and ask your daddy who's more recalling
Drawing attention to the lack of female representation in rap and the outdated negative stereotypes surrounding them. Stating that they are too busy being productive and raising families while male rappers care more about superficial things. Using Biblical references to emphasize the importance of focusing on what truly matters and striving to do good in the world.

Is this Rap or a cry for help? Because many times, I think that I confuse myself I'm just small time, but some think I can change rap They think I'm BET They me to bring the game back
Reflecting on the role that rap plays in his life and whether his music can make a meaningful difference. Sharing his doubts about the expectations placed on him to revolutionize the genre.

They like Sho, you inspire so many folk But what is it all for when you're creative and broke I know, I know, money don't solve problems but Influence don't stop Sallie Mae from calling
Acknowledging the enthusiasm that his fans have for his music and the potential impact it can have on people's lives. Expressing frustration with the fact that creativity and inspiration don't necessarily lead to financial success. Pointing out that he still has to deal with practical issues like student loans regardless of his artistic influence.

It's enough to drive a brother to depression I'm rich in spirit but my pocket's in recession This is [?], I'm only telling you how I feel Only fake people gotta remind you they keep it real (I keep it real)
Sharing his feelings of depression and anxiety due to his financial struggles. Emphasizing that being rich in spirit doesn't necessarily mean one is immune to real-world problems. Stating that he is honest and genuine in his music without having to constantly remind people of it.

I'm fighting my pride trying to be the nice guy But my Michael Jackson's just trying to see the bright side My white friends think I'm all about black power My black friends living in ebony towers My artist friends have terrible work habits My Christian friends got the truth but live passive I reproduce their habits, I can't even hate I guess we're all brothers but I still can't relate
Describing the conflicts he experiences when trying to reconcile his various identities, relationships, and influences. Acknowledging his own flaws and struggles while also recognizing the flaws and difficulties of those around him. Expressing a sense of disconnection and confusion despite the commonalities he shares with others.

I'm genius! This is my Kanye rant Everybody listen up to my Kanye rant Can I talk for a minute, yeah Can I talk for a second, yeah Can I talk Let me talk
Asserting his own talent and intelligence while also embracing the Kanye West comparison. Insisting that his thoughts and opinions are worth listening to and asking for permission to continue speaking his mind.