The Roots' original lineup included Black Thought (MC vocals) and Ahmir "?uestlove" Thompson (drums), who were classmates at the Philadelphia High School for Creative Performing Arts. As they began to play at school and on the streets, they added another MC named Malik B., bassist Leonard Hubbardand keyboardist Scott Storch. Another MC, Dice Raw, frequently made album appearances with the group from 1995 to 1999 before leaving to record a solo album. Scott Storch also left to pursue career as a producer following the Do You Want More?!!!??! album, He produced songs such as Still D.R.E. by Dr Dre. The Roots filled his void with another keyboardist, Kamal who is still a member. A beatboxer named Rahzel also joined the group and contributed from 1995-1999. Alongside Rahzel was vocal turntablist, Scratch who greatly contributed to The Roots' sound, most notably in live concerts. He left the group in 2003. Malik B. left the group in 2000. A guitarist, Ben Kenney, enjoyed a short stint with the group and contributed to their Phrenology album, but left to join Incubus. A percussionist, Knuckles, was added in 2002 and guitarist, Kirk Douglas (a.k.a. "Captain Kirk") repleaced Kenney. A vocalist, Martin Luther toured with The Roots in 2003 and 2004 and contributed to their album The Tipping Point. The current members of The Roots are Black Thought (MC vocals), ?uestlove (drums), Hub (bass), Kamal (keyboard), Knuckles (percussion), and Captain Kirk (guitar).
The Roots' debut album, Organix released in 1993, was actually a live recording from a concert in Germany that the Roots sold at their shows. The album earned enough industry buzz to earn the Roots offers from major record labels, and they signed with DGC records, which at the time was better known for its grunge music releases.
The Roots' first album for DGC, Do You Want More?!!!??! (recorded live without the use of samples), was a moderate hit on alternative radio. Their 1996 release Illadelph Halflife was the group's first album to crack the Top 40 on Billboard's album chart, spurred in part by MTV's airplay of the video for "What They Do", a parody of rap video clichés such as the "beatdown shot," and "Clones" which was their first to single to reach the top five on the rap charts.
In 1999, The Roots released Things Fall Apart (named after a novel by Chinua Achebe), their breakthrough album. The track "You Got Me", duet with R'n'B singer Erykah Badu, earned them a Grammy award for Best Rap Performance By A Duo Or Group.
In 2000, Dice Raw left the group to record his solo debut album, Reclaiming the Dead.
The Roots' reputation as a hip-hop live band made Jay-Z call on them for his MTV Unplugged album in 2002. The album featured good recreations of many of his great songs, played by the band with a little help from female vocalist Jaguar Wright.
2002's Phrenology introduced a more mainstream sound for the Roots, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album. The album's sales were boosted by radio and TV airplay for two duets on the album, "Break You Off" (featuring Musiq Soulchild) and "The Seed 2.0" (featuring Cody ChestnuTT). The video for "The Seed 2.0" earned a nomination for the MTV2 Award at the 2003 MTV Video Music Awards. "The Seed" was also featured on the soundtrack to the Mandy Moore movie Chasing Liberty. Phrenology was certified gold (signifying U.S. sales of at least 500,000 units) in June 2003.
The Roots' 2004 release, The Tipping Point, took its name from a 2000 book by Malcolm Gladwell. The album earned two more Grammy nominations: one for Best Urban/Alternative Performance for the track "Star", and another for Best Rap Performance By A Duo Or Group for the track "Don't Say Nuthin'". The album was an immediate hit, debuting at #4 on the Billboard album chart and selling over 100,000 copies in its first week of release.
On November 15, 2005 The Roots released two compilation albums, Home Grown! The Beginner's Guide To Understanding The Roots, Volumes 1 & 2. These two separately sold discs are a compilation of past hits, live performances, and rare remixes compiled by ?uestlove himself. They also feature 70 pages of liner notes written by ?uestlove. These two albums marked the Roots' last releases on Geffen Records.
The Roots' album, Game Theory, was released on August 29, 2006. The album, which features a track that samples the song "You and Whose Army" by Radiohead, was released on Jay-Z's Def Jam.
The Roots next album 'Rising Down' was released on April 29th 2008. Features tracks with Common, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Saigon, and other greats.
The Make Me Songfacts reports that The Roots' eleventh album, undun, is their first concept album. It tells the story of a man called Redford Stephens who died in 1999 at the age of 25. We hear Redford retelling his life post-mortem and attempting to deconstruct what led to his undoing.
The Roots are also the house band on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon airing first on March 2nd, 2009.
I Will Not Apologize
The Roots Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
(I will not apologize) I will not apologize
(I will not apologize) I will not apologize
This is for all of my peoples who understand and truly recognize
Some won't get it for that I won't
(I will not apologize) I will not apologize
(I will not apologize) I will not apologize
This is for all of my peoples who understand and truly recognize
[P.O.R.N.]
I'm so sick cause I'm infected but but I don't need a medic
Need a liquid anesthetic, let me show you how I get it
I don't got it but I bet it, I don't worry, I don't sweat it
You can bitch, you can dead it, you can take it there like FedEx
Nothing sweet diabetic, big dog can't pet it
Pack an L then I wet it then I fill it till it's pregnant
(Take the high back) face it everybody got a favorite
I embrace it like I date it but my grandma think I chase it
(Like oh yeah) I told her that her baby moving slower
Cause the world is on his shoulders then I woke up out that coma
(And got right back) at it with a little black 'matic
Lay you down craft-matic, then I'm gone, black magic
(To the hideout) you don't want to gamble with the devil
Especially when them chewy bluies got me on another level
Cause my teacher think I'm slow but my momma think I'm special
But even she know I'm coming back like an echo.
[Chorus]
[Dice Raw]
For the statements I'm about to make I will not apologize
Niggas talk a lot of shit, really need to stop the lies
Jewels rented, cars rented, homie that ain't authentic
Acting tough on TV but to me you seem a little timid
Don't blame the nigga, blame America, it's all business
Acting like a monkey is the only way to sell tickets
Shit I can dig it, niggas gossip silly digits
White kids buy it, it's a riot when we talking about pimping
Or sipping on old English brew or whatever they think we do
Spraying double Uzi's cause you know they think we live in zoos
The problem is with this everyone seems to be real confused
The niggas on the streets to the old people that watch the news
And watch BET and the crazy shit they see
They associate with you do the same shit to me
When you look at me you see just a nigga from the projects
But can't understand this nigga's mind set but still
[Chorus]
[Black Thought]
Yo, a revolution's what it's smelling like, it ain't going be televised
Governments is hellified, taking cake and selling pies
I ain't got a crust or crumb, to get some I'd be well obliged
Murder is co-modified, felon for the second time
Never was I into chasing trouble I was followed by
Facing trouble with no alibi, had to swallow pride
Vilified, victimized, penalized, criticized
Ran into some people that's surprised I was still alive
Look into my daughter's eyes, wonder how can I provide
Got to get from A to B but how can I afford to drive?
Messed around, tried to get a job and wasn't qualified
Had to see a pal of mine, got to get the lightning rod
Now I'm in the black Impala looking for the dollar sign
Palms get the itching man I got to get the calamine
Before I fall behind, guess the grind will be my 9 to 5
I will not be conquered by, I will not apologize
[Chorus]
The Roots’ song “I Will Not Apologize” is a passionate assertion of Black pride, self-confidence, and defiance against racial injustice, media stereotypes, and systemic oppression. The song features the raw and poetic verses of Dice Raw, P.O.R.N, and Black Thought, complemented by the soulful and harmonious chorus of Talib Kweli. Each rapper delivers a distinct message but share a common thread of resistance and courage against the forces that seek to diminish Black excellence and dignity. The chorus, “I will not apologize,” is a powerful refrain that amplifies the message of the song, inviting the listener to join in the collective refusal to bow down to the status quo.
The verses of the song touch on several themes, including the façade of materialism, the exploitation of Black culture, the struggle for survival, and the determination to succeed despite the odds. Dice Raw denounces the stereotypes of Black men as dangerous and reckless, and asserts his pride in his heritage and his right to expression without fear. P.O.R.N delights in his lyrical dexterity and his defiance against authority, while also acknowledging the impact of drugs and poverty on his community. Black Thought reflects on the political and economic landscape that perpetuates racial inequalities and the impact on his own life and family. Through their verses, the rappers convey a sense of urgency and authenticity that resonates with the Black experience.
Overall, “I Will Not Apologize” is a powerful song that celebrates Black identity, culture, and resilience, and challenges listeners to examine their own biases and assumptions.
Line by Line Meaning
I will not apologize
The singer refuses to apologize for their statements.
This is for all of my peoples who understand and truly recognize
The message is directed towards people who truly understand and recognize its importance.
Some won't get it for that I won't
The singer will not apologize for those who do not understand the message.
I'm so sick cause I'm infected but but I don't need a medic
The artist is struggling but doesn't necessarily need help from others.
Need a liquid anesthetic, let me show you how I get it
The artist has their own way of dealing with their struggles, perhaps through substance use.
Nothing sweet diabetic, big dog can't pet it
The singer is not something that is easy to control or manipulate.
Pack an L then I wet it then I fill it till it's pregnant
The singer is rolling a joint and filling it up until it is full and ready to be smoked.
Lay you down craft-matic, then I'm gone, black magic
The artist will use the craftmatic bed to have sex before leaving suddenly.
You don't want to gamble with the devil
It is dangerous to take risks or make deals with those who are evil or untrustworthy.
Cause my teacher think I'm slow but my momma think I'm special
The artist's intelligence is perceived differently by different people, but their mother believes in them.
For the statements I'm about to make I will not apologize
The singer is about to speak their mind and will not apologize for doing so.
Niggas talk a lot of shit, really need to stop the lies
People need to stop talking nonsense and spreading falsehoods.
Acting tough on TV but to me you seem a little timid
The singer sees through the facade of those who act tough for appearances.
Don't blame the nigga, blame America, it's all business
The singer believes that the problems with society are caused by the capitalist system in America.
The problem is with this everyone seems to be real confused
The issue is that everyone is confused about the state of society and how to fix it.
Yo, a revolution's what it's smelling like, it ain't going be televised
The artist believes that a revolution is imminent, but the media won't cover it.
Governments is hellified, taking cake and selling pies
The government is corrupt and profiting off of its citizens.
Look into my daughter's eyes, wonder how can I provide
The singer is concerned about providing for their child.
I will not be conquered by, I will not apologize
The singer will not back down or apologize for their beliefs and actions.
Lyrics © DOMINO PUBLISHING COMPANY, Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: FELA RANSOME KUTI, GREG SPEARMAN, KARL B. JENKINS, TARIK L. COLLINS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Savi ⚡️
I will not apologize
(I will not apologize) I will not apologize
This is for all of my peoples who understand and truly recognize
Some won't get it for that I won't
(I will not apologize) I will not apologize
(I will not apologize) I will not apologize
This is for all of my peoples who understand and truly recognize
Some won't get it for that I won't apologize
I'm so sick cause I'm infected but but I don't need a medic
Need a liquid anesthetic, let me show you how I get it
I don't got it but I bet it, I don't worry, I don't sweat it
You can bitch, you can dead it, you can take it there like FedEx
Nothing sweet diabetic, big dog can't pet it
Pack an L then I wet it then I fill it till it's pregnant
(Take the high back) face it everybody got a favorite
I embrace it like I date it but my grandma think I chase it
(Like oh yeah) I told her that her baby moving slower
Cause the world is on his shoulders then I woke up out that coma
(And got right back) at it with a little black 'matic
Lay you down craft-matic, then I'm gone, black magic
(To the hideout) you don't want to gamble with the devil
Especially when them chewy bluies got me on another level
Cause my teacher think I'm slow but my momma think I'm special
But even she know I'm coming back like an echo.
For the statements I'm about to make I will not apologize
Niggas talk a lot of shit, really need to stop the lies
Jewels rented, cars rented, homie that ain't authentic
Acting tough on TV but to me you seem a little timid
Don't blame the nigga, blame America, it's all business
Acting like a monkey is the only way to sell tickets
Shit I can dig it, niggas gossip silly digits
White kids buy it, it's a riot when we talking about pimping
Or sipping on old English brew or whatever they think we do
Spraying double Uzi's cause you know they think we live in zoos
The problem is with this everyone seems to be real confused
The niggas on the streets to the old people that watch the news
And watch BET and the crazy shit they see
They associate with you do the same shit to me
When you look at me you see just a nigga from the projects
But can't understand this nigga's mind set but still
For the statements I'm about to make I will not apologize
Niggas talk a lot of shit, really need to stop the lies
Jewels rented, cars rented, homie that ain't authentic
Acting tough on TV but to me you seem a little timid
Don't blame the nigga, blame America, it's all business
Acting like a monkey is the only way to sell tickets
Shit I can dig it, niggas gossip silly digits
White kids buy it, it's a riot when we talking about pimping
Or sipping on old English brew or whatever they think we do
Spraying double Uzi's cause you know they think we live in zoos
The problem is with this everyone seems to be real confused
The niggas on the streets to the old people that watch the news
And watch BET and the crazy shit they see
They associate with you do the same shit to me
When you look at me you see just a nigga from the projects
But can't understand this nigga's mind set but still
Yo, a revolution's what it's smelling like, it ain't going be televised
Governments is hellified, taking cake and selling pies
I ain't got a crust or crumb, to get some I'd be well obliged
Murder is co-modified, felon for the second time
Never was I into chasing trouble I was followed by
Facing trouble with no alibi, had to swallow pride
Vilified, victimized, penalized, criticized
Ran into some people that's surprised I was still alive
Look into my daughter's eyes, wonder how can I provide
Got to get from A to B but how can I afford to drive?
Messed around, tried to get a job and wasn't qualified
Had to see a pal of mine, got to get the lightning rod
Now I'm in the black Impala looking for the dollar sign
Palms get the itching man I got to get the calamine
Before I fall behind, guess the grind will be my 9 to 5
I will not be conquered by, I will not apologize
For the statements I'm about to make I will not apologize
Niggas talk a lot of shit, really need to stop the lies
Jewels rented, cars rented, homie that ain't authentic
Acting tough on TV but to me you seem a little timid
Don't blame the nigga, blame America, it's all business
Acting like a monkey is the only way to sell tickets
Shit I can dig it, niggas gossip silly digits
White kids buy it, it's a riot when we talking about pimping
Or sipping on old English brew or whatever they think we do
Spraying double Uzi's cause you know they think we live in zoos
The problem is with this everyone seems to be real confused
The niggas on the streets to the old people that watch the news
And watch BET and the crazy shit they see
They associate with you do the same shit to me
When you look at me you see just a nigga from the projects
But can't understand this nigga's mind set but still
Raeyoncé
Everything about The Roots is underrated. I love this song.
Joseph Blanco
This takes me back to being 18. 2007, bumping this in my first car, a beat up 1998 Ford Taurus. Had one of those cassettes that you can use to plug into a ipod. This album and the fugees (the score) was all I played that year. Everyone else was bumping wayne and Paul wall, but if you got in my car... you were getting blasted with this album.
RaeRae Jeru
I admit, i never really gave the Roots the props they deserve. They are phenomenal! Fave and first Album i got is 'illadelph halflife'. All their albums are brilliant!
Keaton
The best band and group in hip-hop
HipHop226
Not over Wu but they could possibly be 2nd
Artorias the Abysswalker
the roots are the shit
frostysnow w
Favorite Album 😃🎧🎤🎶🎵💕💕💕💕💕💕
dynamic
Questlove brought me here again after listening to his interview with Talib Kweli.
Apple Juice
That’s where I came from too.
Jobani
Same shit