Riot
Wyclef Jean Lyrics

The song "Riot" by Wyclef Jean featuring Serj Tankian and Sizzla is an energetic and socially conscious track that blends elements of hip hop, rock, and reggae. The lyrics touch on various topics, such as music, love, drug addiction, police brutality, global politics, and spirituality. The verses are rapped and sung by Wyclef and Serj, respectively, while Sizzla delivers the chorus and a bridge section. The opening lines set the tone for the song by presenting a friendly exchange between Wyclef and Serj, who pass around a lighter, implying solidarity and creativity. However, the subsequent lyrics reveal tensions and conflicts that exist in society and how they may escalate into riots.

The first verse by Wyclef uses boxing metaphors to describe his lyrical prowess and his resilience to setbacks. He recounts his Grammy win and his humble beginnings in the streets. The line "Seen many blocks turn to the Twilight Zone" suggests that he has witnessed how poverty, crime, and gentrification can transform a neighborhood into a surreal and ominous place. He also mentions his ex-girlfriend's drug addiction, highlighting the dangers and tragedies of substance abuse. The line "For the right bag she deep blow deeper than the baritone" is a double entendre that implies both the sexual and the musical connotations of "blow." Wyclef then shifts to a more confrontational style and challenges his competitors to match his skills. His swagger and aggression can be heard in lines like "Lyrical dagger like alcohol I got pull your liver" and "Quiver, shiver body temperature can found in Hudson River." The former line suggests that Wyclef's lyrics can be as intoxicating and harmful as alcohol, while the latter line refers to the infamous incident of dumping a murder victim into the Hudson River. Overall, Wyclef's verse sets up the theme of resistance against oppressive forces and the power of verbal and artistic expression.

The chorus by Sizzla repeats the phrase "It's a riot" several times, accompanied by a catchy melody and a pulsating beat. The chorus can be interpreted as both a warning and an invitation to join the rebellion. The use of the word "trouble" in the second line reinforces the sense of danger and unease, while the third line ("your body's getting nervous") suggests that the situation is becoming physical and emotional. The fourth line ("body so unconscious") implies that the rioters are driven by instinct and passion, rather than reason or control. The second chorus repeats the same phrases, but with more urgency and intensity, as if the riot has already started and the chaos is spreading. The chorus also alludes to the diverse musical styles represented in the song, as the repetition of "boys" in the first line can be seen as a playful reference to the different genres and their respective fan bases. The chorus is a powerful and dynamic section that encourages listeners to engage with the song and its message.

The second verse by Sizzla adds a reggae flavor to the song and emphasizes the positive aspects of music and community. Sizzla invites the listener to "rock with me" and enjoy the music together. The line "I got the music on the block with me" suggests that Sizzla is not only a performer, but also a promoter and a connector of people. The line "Everyday we offer praises like King Soloman" refers to the tradition of religious and spiritual music in Jamaica, where Rastafarianism is a major influence. The use of the phrase "guardian angel" implies that Sizzla sees himself as a protector and a guide for his audience. He also acknowledges the fear and anxiety that riots can cause, but he assures the listener that he knows how to "make it" and overcome the obstacles. The lines "Pump up high/N M I/Double S - I/S - S - I/P ? P - I/Three peace child" are cryptic and may refer to Sizzla's stage name (which stands for "sizzler"), his record label (which is called "Kalonji Records"), or his personal beliefs (which involve the trinity and the concept of peace). The final lines of the verse allude to the spiritual and transformative power of music, as Sizzla compares the rebirth of the dead to a flower in a battlefield.

Overall, "Riot" is a bold and eclectic song that touches on various themes and styles. The lyrics display a mix of personal experiences, social commentary, and philosophical musings. The blend of hip hop, rock, and reggae creates a high-energy and diverse sound that captures the spirit of rebellion and solidarity. The song aims to inspire and motivate the listener to join the fight against oppression and injustice, while also celebrating the joy and power of music.