I'm definitely going to have to side with tobeforgotten on this one. Guys, The Roots aren't like Eminem or Q-Tip, their lyrics tend to actually be poetic and have hidden meanings. I don't think you can just accept the literal interpretation for this song.
I interpret the song to mean that they are attempting to unite the rock and roll and hip hop genres. In this case, they are trying to plant the seed of hip hop within the womb of rock and roll. He's having to do "fertilize another against my lover's will" because hip hop is resistant to integrating other musical styles. This interpretation is supported by the lines in the first verse that go:
"She don't want no rock-n-roll
She want platinum or ice or gold
She want a whole lotta somethin' to fold"
The lines are describing the hip hop culture obsession with money and "bling." Whereas, "I lick the opposition because she don't take no birth control" signifies that rock and roll is open and willing to integrate influences from other genres.
If you're still doubtful, just listen to the beats underlying the song. You have the heavy beats that are commonplace in hip hop and then the distinct guitar riff.
@deranged_one_13 I also have to agree. This song is too sophisticated and intricate to be about something as simple as secret sex. It definitely makes references to art forms even to an ear not trained in deep poetry.
@deranged_one_13 I also have to agree. This song is too sophisticated and intricate to be about something as simple as secret sex. It definitely makes references to art forms even to an ear not trained in deep poetry.
This song may have multiple meanings, but it is absolutely about musical art, at the very minimum.
This song may have multiple meanings, but it is absolutely about musical art, at the very minimum.
I'm definitely going to have to side with tobeforgotten on this one. Guys, The Roots aren't like Eminem or Q-Tip, their lyrics tend to actually be poetic and have hidden meanings. I don't think you can just accept the literal interpretation for this song.
I interpret the song to mean that they are attempting to unite the rock and roll and hip hop genres. In this case, they are trying to plant the seed of hip hop within the womb of rock and roll. He's having to do "fertilize another against my lover's will" because hip hop is resistant to integrating other musical styles. This interpretation is supported by the lines in the first verse that go:
"She don't want no rock-n-roll She want platinum or ice or gold She want a whole lotta somethin' to fold"
The lines are describing the hip hop culture obsession with money and "bling." Whereas, "I lick the opposition because she don't take no birth control" signifies that rock and roll is open and willing to integrate influences from other genres.
If you're still doubtful, just listen to the beats underlying the song. You have the heavy beats that are commonplace in hip hop and then the distinct guitar riff.
@deranged_one_13 After reading your comment am in complete agreement. Also Mary could refer to Mary J Blige (Queen of hip-hop soul)
@deranged_one_13 After reading your comment am in complete agreement. Also Mary could refer to Mary J Blige (Queen of hip-hop soul)
@deranged_one_13 I also have to agree. This song is too sophisticated and intricate to be about something as simple as secret sex. It definitely makes references to art forms even to an ear not trained in deep poetry.
@deranged_one_13 I also have to agree. This song is too sophisticated and intricate to be about something as simple as secret sex. It definitely makes references to art forms even to an ear not trained in deep poetry.
This song may have multiple meanings, but it is absolutely about musical art, at the very minimum.
This song may have multiple meanings, but it is absolutely about musical art, at the very minimum.