In 1989, Tamika released her debut album, "#1" on Orpheus Records. It's unknown how or if the album ever charted.
The first single, "Your Precious Love" (a duet with R&B singer Eric Gable, a cover of the Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell classic) hit #20 on Billboard's Hot R&B\Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks chart, making it Tamika's hit song to date. Besides this cover, ''#1'' also featured Tamika's version of the Billie Holiday classic ''God Bless The Child''
The second single, "Number One" peaked at #75 on Billboard's Hot R&B\Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks chart.
In 1999 (10 years after releasing her first album), Tamika released her first gospel album, "Born Again." Today, Tamika is continuing gospel music along with acting in theater.
God Bless The Child
Tamika Patton Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Them that's not shall lose
So the Bible said and it still is news
Mama may have, Papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own
That's got his own
Yes, the strong gets more
Empty pockets don't ever make the grade
Mama may have, Papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own
That's got his own
Money, you've got lots of friends
Crowding round the door
When you're gone, spending ends
They don't come no more
Rich relations give
Crust of bread and such
You can help yourself
But don't take too much
Mama may have, Papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own
That's got his own
Mama may have, Papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own
That's got his own
He just don't worry 'bout nothin'
'Cause he's got his own
The song "God Bless The Child" by Tamika Patton speaks to the idea that in life, those who have material possessions will continue to gain more while those who do not will lose even more. Patton uses the words from "The Bible" or religious text as the basis for her message that the wealthy will continue to benefit, while the poor will struggle. She points out that the idea is still relevant today and still perpetuates, despite the changing times. However, the chorus in the song points out that those who have managed to collect possessions and make something of themselves will be blessed.
The verses speak to the societal norms that exist in real life. The second verse talks about how people with empty pockets can't ever achieve what they want. The chorus refers to the fact that although others may have more advantages in life, those who work hard to get what they got and had nothing given to them will always fare better. The lyrics go on to describe how money can make one surrounded by a group of friends who are only interested in spending them; however, when you become broke, no one is there to support you. Rich people may give something to those who have less than them, but they still want to keep them at a disadvantage.
"God Bless The Child" has a deeper meaning beyond the surface level, and as with most songs, it's open to personal interpretation. However, the song is a commentary on the socio-economic status of society and how society perpetuates the cycle of poverty. It implies that hard work is not enough to guarantee a successful life, as luck and circumstance can make or break everyone's life.
Line by Line Meaning
Them that's got shall have
The people who already have something will continue to receive more of it.
Them that's not shall lose
Those who don't currently have something will continue to have less of it.
So the Bible said and it still is news
This idea has been around for a long time and it is still relevant today.
Mama may have, Papa may have
Even if someone's parents have wealth or success,
But God bless the child that's got his own
it's still better to have something that you earned or acquired on your own.
Yes, the strong gets more
Those who are already in a position of power or success will continue to become more powerful or successful.
While the weak ones fade
Those who are struggling or less fortunate will continue to struggle and may not be able to improve their situation.
Empty pockets don't ever make the grade
Being poor or lacking resources can hold you back and make it more difficult to succeed.
Money, you've got lots of friends
People will often be friendly and helpful to those who have money or wealth.
Crowding round the door
These people will often try to gain the favor of the wealthy person.
When you're gone, spending ends
Once the wealthy person's money is no longer available, these people will stop trying to be their friend.
They don't come no more
These people will not stick around if the money is gone.
Rich relations give
Even wealthy family members or relatives may only offer a small amount of assistance.
Crust of bread and such
This assistance may only be very basic or minimal.
You can help yourself
It's important to be self-sufficient and rely on your own abilities.
But don't take too much
It's also important to be mindful of not taking advantage of the help or resources of others.
He just don't worry 'bout nothin'
Someone who has their own resources and is self-sufficient does not have to worry about relying on others.
'Cause he's got his own
Because they have their own resources, they are not dependent on others and are free to pursue their own goals and aspirations.
Lyrics © CARLIN AMERICA INC
Written by: Arthur Herzog, Billie Holiday
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind