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.
The Fire ft. John Legend
The Roots Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Oh, the fire, the fire
There's something in your heart
And it's in your eyes
It's the fire
Inside you
Let it burn
You say don't give up
It's the fire
Inside you
Let it burn
Yeah, and if I'm ever at the crossroads
And start feeling mixed signals like Morse code
My soul starts to grow colder than the North Pole
I try to focus on the whole of where the torch goes
In the tradition of these legendary sports pros
As far as I can see, I've made it to the threshold
Lord knows I've waited for this a life time
And I'm an icon when I let my light shine
Shine bright as an example of a champion
Taking the advantage, never copping out or canceling
Burn like a chariot, learn how to carry it
Maverick, always above and beyond average
Fuel to the flame that I train with and travel with
Something in my eyes says I'm so close to having the prize
I realize I'm supposed to reach for the skies
Never let somebody try to tell you otherwise
There's something in your heart
And it's in your eyes
It's the fire
Inside you
Let it burn
You don't say good luck
You say don't give up
It's the fire
Inside you
Let it burn
One love, one game, one desire
One flame, one bonfire, let it burn higher
I never show signs of fatigue or turn tired
'Cause I'm the definition of tragedy turned triumph
It's David and Goliath; I made it to the eye of the storm
Feeling torn like they fed me to the lions
Before my time starts to wind down like the Mayans
I show 'em how I got the grind down like a science
It sounds like a riot on hush; it's so quiet
The only thing I hear is my heart--I'm inspired
By the challenge that I find myself standing eye to eye with
Then move like a wise warrior and not be a coward
You can't escape the history that you was meant to make
That's why the highest victory is what I'm meant to take
You came to celebrate, I came to cerebrate
I hate losing; I refuse to make the same mistake
Oh, the fire, the fire
Oh, there's something in your heart
(The fire)
There's something in your heart
(The fire)
There's something in your heart
And it's in your eyes
It's the fire
Inside you
Let it burn
You don't say good luck
You say don't give up
It's the fire
Inside you
Let it burn
Oh, the fire
Inside you
The fire
Inside you
The fire
Inside you
The Roots Legend John's song "The Fire" is a powerful motivational track that encourages listeners to find the fire within themselves and let it burn bright. The lyrics speak to the personal struggle and perseverance required to achieve greatness, and the metaphor of fire represents the passion and drive necessary to overcome challenges and achieve goals.
The first verse speaks directly to the listener, acknowledging the fire that burns within their heart and eyes. It encourages them to allow that fire to burn bright and to never give up in their pursuits. The second verse is more introspective, as the artist reflects on his own journey and the challenges he has faced. He compares himself to legendary sports pros, and speaks to the importance of perseverance and maintaining focus, even when faced with adversity.
The chorus serves as a reminder to listeners that they too possess this fire within them, and should never let anyone tell them otherwise. The final verse is a battle cry, as the artist declares that he is the definition of tragedy turned triumph, and that he is prepared to take on any challenge that comes his way. The song ends with a repetition of the chorus, reinforcing the message of finding the fire within oneself and letting it burn bright.
Overall, "The Fire" is a powerful and uplifting song that encourages listeners to push through adversity and stay focused on their goals. The use of fire as a metaphor adds a metaphorical layer of meaning to the lyrics, allowing listeners to tap into their own passion and drive in a deeper way.
Line by Line Meaning
Oh, the fire, the fire
Introducing the song and highlighting the significance of the 'fire'.
There's something in your heart
Referring to a feeling deep within oneself.
And it's in your eyes
This 'something' can be seen through one's eyes.
It's the fire
The 'something' that drives and motivates an individual.
Inside you
This is an internal feeling.
Let it burn
The 'fire' should be allowed to grow and flourish.
You don't say good luck
Instead of wishing good luck, encourage persistence and determination.
You say don't give up
Motivating words to help someone persevere.
Yeah, and if I'm ever at the crossroads
Starting a personal narrative about facing difficult decisions.
And start feeling mixed signals like Morse code
Describing the confusion that can come with decision-making.
My soul starts to grow colder than the North Pole
An analogy to describe the negative emotions surrounding difficult decisions.
I try to focus on the whole of where the torch goes
Trying to remember the ultimate goal and where it leads.
In the tradition of these legendary sports pros
Drawing inspiration from successful athletes.
As far as I can see, I've made it to the threshold
Acknowledging personal progress.
Lord knows I've waited for this a lifetime
Expressing gratitude for opportunities.
And I'm an icon when I let my light shine
Feeling confident in one's abilities.
Shine bright as an example of a champion
Being a role model to others.
Taking the advantage, never copping out or canceling
Making the most of opportunities and never giving up.
Burn like a chariot, learn how to carry it
Persisting even in difficult times.
Maverick, always above and beyond average
Distinguishing oneself from the norm.
Fuel to the flame that I train with and travel with
Whatever fuels the internal passion that drives a person is what they will carry with them in their journey.
Something in my eyes says I'm so close to having the prize
Feeling hopeful and confident in achieving success.
I realize I'm supposed to reach for the skies
Knowing that one's potential is limitless.
Never let somebody try to tell you otherwise
Encouraging others to believe in themselves despite external negativity.
One love, one game, one desire
Simplifying the passions that unite people.
One flame, one bonfire, let it burn higher
Encouraging personal growth and potential.
I never show signs of fatigue or turn tired
Persisting despite physical and emotional exhaustion.
'Cause I'm the definition of tragedy turned triumph
Overcoming personal hardships and using them to one's advantage.
It's David and Goliath; I made it to the eye of the storm
Referencing a popular biblical metaphor and overcoming difficult obstacles.
Feeling torn like they fed me to the lions
A metaphorical description of feeling overwhelmed and helpless.
Before my time starts to wind down like the Mayans
Acknowledging the finite nature of life.
I show 'em how I got the grind down like a science
Outlining the determination and dedication necessary to achieve success.
It sounds like a riot on hush; it's so quiet
Implying the silence before achieving success.
The only thing I hear is my heart--I'm inspired
Feeling a sense of motivation and inspiration from within.
By the challenge that I find myself standing eye to eye with
Feeling excited and motivated by personal challenges.
Then move like a wise warrior and not be a coward
Choosing to face challenges with bravery and wisdom.
You can't escape the history that you was meant to make
Believing in one's destiny and the potential to make history.
That's why the highest victory is what I'm meant to take
Believing in one's ability to achieve great success.
You came to celebrate, I came to cerebrate
A play on words to signify the difference between personal achievement and celebration.
I hate losing; I refuse to make the same mistake
A determination to learn from personal mistakes and persist towards success.
Oh, the fire, the fire
Repeating the opening line for emphasis.
Oh, there's something in your heart
Reiterating the concept of an internal drive and motivation.
(The fire)
Emphasizing the significance of the 'fire'.
Inside you
Reiterating the internal nature of this passion.
Let it burn
Encouraging personal growth and motivation.
The fire
Inside you
The fire
Inside you
The fire
Inside you
Repeating the concept of the internal 'fire'.
Lyrics © UNIVERSAL MUSIC CORPORATION,
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@fidansmajli42
Oh, the fire, the fire
Oh, the fire, the fire
There's something in your heart
And it's in your eyes
It's the fire
Inside you
Let it burn
You don't say good luck
You say don't give up
It's the fire
Inside you
Let it burn
Yeah, and if I'm ever at the crossroads
And start feeling mixed signals like Morse code
My soul starts to grow colder than the North Pole
I try to focus on the whole of where the torch goes
In the tradition of these legendary sports pros
As far as I can see, I've made it to the threshold
Lord knows I've waited for this a life time
And I'm an icon when I let my light shine
Shine bright as an example of a champion
Taking the advantage, never copping out or canceling
Burn like a chariot, learn how to carry it
Maverick, always above and beyond average
Fuel to the flame that I train with and travel with
Something in my eyes says I'm so close to having the prize
I realize I'm supposed to reach for the skies
Never let somebody try to tell you otherwise
There's something in your heart
And it's in your eyes
It's the fire
Inside you
Let it burn
You don't say good luck
You say don't give up
It's the fire
Inside you
Let it burn
One love, one game, one desire
One flame, one bonfire, let it burn higher
I never show signs of fatigue or turn tired
'Cause I'm the definition of tragedy turned triumph
It's David and Goliath; I made it to the eye of the storm
Feeling torn like they fed me to the lions
Before my time starts to wind down like the Mayans
I show 'em how I got the grind down like a science
It sounds like a riot on hush; it's so quiet
The only thing I hear is my heart--I'm inspired
By the challenge that I find myself standing eye to eye with
Then move like a wise warrior and not be a coward
You can't escape the history that you was meant to make
That's why the highest victory is what I'm meant to take
You came to celebrate, I came to cerebrate
I hate losing; I refuse to make the same mistake
Oh, the fire, the fire
Oh, there's something in your heart
(The fire)
There's something in your heart
(The fire)
There's something in your heart
And it's in your eyes
It's the fire
Inside you
Let it burn
You don't say good luck
You say don't give up
It's the fire
Inside you
Let it burn
Oh, the fire
Inside you
The fire
Inside you
The fire
Inside you
@kaynxkakashi1976
''you don't say good luck, you say don't give up'' my fav quote
@gameworldvision
same bro
@leonardobraynen1524
Mine is,
AM AN ICON WHEN I LET MY LIGHT SHINE!
@xDarklord986x
When you think u have no more reps in the tank and this part comes up…
@AxLDX
🔥❤️🔥🥶 same bro 💪🏽"And if I'm ever at the crossroads, and start feeling mixed signals like Morse code" goes kinda hard ngl
@doomsday8067
Hearing this music in fight night champion was a vibe. Nostalgia all around 🔥💪
@superninja252
its on MLB The Show actually now
@Mr601ms
Got me back playing Fight Night Champions
@gary9399
It's not over when you lose, it's over when you quit.
@leonardobraynen1524
POWERFUL STUFF GARY!
KEEP AT IT BRUH!