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The Meaning Behind The Song: Be (Intro) by Common
Title: Be (Intro) Artist: Common Writer/Composer: Common, Caesar Frazier, Kanye West Album: Be (2005) Release Date: May 24, 2005 Genre: Rap, Jazz Rap, Conscious Hip-Hop Producer: Kanye WestCommon’s intro track, “Be (Intro)”, sets the tone for the entirety of his album Be. The song beautifully showcases Common’s poetic lyricism and is complemented by Kanye West’s soulful production. The lyrics of the song delve deep into Common’s introspection and exploration of life’s meaning.
The song opens with Common expressing his desire for freedom, comparing it to the spirits of influential figures like Malcolm X, John Coltrane, and Yusef. Through death, he believes in new beginnings and resurrection, not just for himself but also for his mother, who is taking new steps in a positive direction.
Common reflects on the struggles and challenges of life, acknowledging that actions may not always align with words. He highlights the impact of growing up in Chicago, where the city’s nights and experiences stay etched in one’s mind. He uses his music as a medium to portray different lives and stories, acknowledging the reality of the grind faced by many individuals.
Amidst the societal struggles and pushes for success, Common emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and the influence of family. He looks into his daughter’s eyes and realizes that he can learn and change through her. He believes that his daughter has the potential to be the catalyst for positive change and even envisions the possibility of the Messiah returning through her.
In the song, Common also confronts personal demons and haunted memories. He mentions the desire for material possessions like furs and a Benz, which his grandparents may have desired. He acknowledges the presence of negative influences from past friends, as well as the mental toll it takes on his father. Common presents himself as the chosen one from a harsh environment, where nights of indulgence overshadow the sober ones.
Despite the challenges, Common resolves to continue moving forward, refusing to dwell on the past or look too far into the future. He recognizes that the present is a gift and expresses his desire to simply be present and embrace life as it comes.
Personally, “Be (Intro)” resonates with me on a profound level. The introspective nature of the song encourages self-reflection and understanding. It reminds me of the importance of appreciating the present moment and cherishing the relationships and experiences that shape my life.
Common’s lyricism and Kanye West’s production create a perfect synergy in this track. Through its thought-provoking verses and soulful beats, the song captures the essence of Common’s artistic vision and the larger themes explored in the album.
“Be (Intro)” serves as a powerful introduction to Common’s Be album and sets the stage for the meaningful and introspective journey that follows. It not only showcases his lyrical prowess but also serves as a reminder of the power of music to touch our hearts and minds.
The song’s timeless and introspective nature continues to resonate with listeners, making it a classic in the realm of conscious hip-hop. It serves as a testament to Common’s ability to convey profound messages through his music and establish a deep connection with his audience.
Credits:
Produced By: Kanye West
Written By: Caesar Frazier, Common & Kanye West
Label: Geffen Records & G.O.O.D. Music
Copyright ©: Geffen Records
Phonographic Copyright ℗: Geffen Records
Mixed At: Encore Studios & Sony Music Studios (New York)
Assistant Recording Engineer: Taylor Dow & Francis Forde
Mastering Engineer: Tom Coyne
Mixing Engineer: Andrew Dawson
Recording Engineer: Andrew Dawson
Keyboards: James Poyser
Acoustic Bass: Derrick Hodge
Recorded At: Encore Studios (Burbank, CA) & Sony Music Studios (New York City)
References:
Official music video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MedYGL45DnE
Samples: Mother Nature by Albert Jones
Tags:
Rap, Jazz Rap, Conscious Hip-Hop, Hip-Hop, Intro
Overall, “Be (Intro)” by Common is a powerful and introspective song that explores the meaning of freedom, the challenges of life, and the importance of being present in the here and now. Through his poetic lyricism and Kanye West’s soulful production, Common creates a timeless piece of music that continues to resonate with listeners.
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