Time Is Right
Time Unleashed: Talib Kweli's Fiery Manifesto
Lyrics
Yeah, the time is right for me to find a mic
Expressing readiness to grab a microphone and perform.
The crowd is tight, the lab ac' ain't workin' right
Describing a challenging environment in the recording studio.
But I'ma get it done, even if we gotta fight
Determination to overcome obstacles, even if it requires a fight.
I ain't goin out like that, no not tonight
Commitment not to give up easily tonight.
Yo let me get a mic check
Request for a microphone check to ensure everything is in order.
This my prayer for y'all niggas 'cause the game ain't got no life left
Viewing the rap game as lacking vitality or inspiration.
Came in with Mos Def and Hi-Tek
Mentioning collaboration with Mos Def and Hi-Tek as family.
And that's my family dawg, they might catch the last gasp of my breath
Acknowledging the close connection with fellow artists.
And rest in peace to my nigga Dilla
Paying respects to the late J Dilla, a fellow artist.
My mind into real estate like a bigger villa
Comparing the expansion of the mind to real estate.
Your rhymes are cheaper than gas in Jersey
Criticizing the perceived low quality of other artists' lyrics.
Before you leave the state you know you got to fill up
Using a metaphor related to refueling a car to emphasize preparation.
Matter fact, put your schwag back, 'cause I got the realest
Asserting authenticity and realness in contrast to others.
If not the killer then I ain't smokin'
Refusing to indulge in substances of questionable quality.
I'm not buyin off the street or be askin 'em what kind you growin'
Rejecting street drugs and questioning their origin.
You can't flush it is 'cause the kind is floatin'
Highlighting the inability to flush a particular type of substance.
Kids be eyein' totin' open defyin', mothers that's cryin' oceans
Observing societal issues, including youth violence and maternal distress.
It's Sin City without the Clive Owen
Comparing the environment to "Sin City" without the actor Clive Owen.
I keep it fresh, these rappers staler than a big of chips you findin' open
Claiming to keep the content fresh compared to other stale rappers.
Let's take our time and, have a silent moment
Suggesting a moment of reflection and silence.
It's like I'm jokin', I get 'em open like multiple lines are snorted
Indicating the ability to captivate and engage listeners.
They snortin' I'm spittin flames, nigga the flow'll blowtorch ya
Describing a powerful and intense lyrical flow.
I'm on fire so they always try to put me out
Referencing the constant attempts to hinder success.
Flatbush all day but they don't know what my hood about
Proudly representing the Flatbush neighborhood and its unknown aspects.
I'm so good without your props and accolades
Stating independence from external validation and recognition.
Crackin' like whips on the back of slaves, spittin' on the master's grave
Using metaphorical language to describe the impact of his words.
I'm tighter than 'yette's braids, y'all niggas are "Tenderheaded"
Comparing tightness to the braids of a mythical creature, emphasizing skill.
Just 'cause I ain't you as my friend yet, then forget it
Addressing potential friendship cautiously and without pressure.
Sheesh y'all niggas are sensitive
Observing a perceived sensitivity among others.
That's really me on that shit, not a representative
Asserting personal authenticity, not a representative.
Nothin' pretend or fake, many came and went, tryin' to imitate
Rejecting pretense and fake personas.
That's the quickest way to disintegrate
Warning against imitation as it leads to failure.
It's cause I innovate, my shit hardly assimilate
Stressing innovation and resistance to conformity.
Still I'm bringin' "Sexy Back" like Timbaland and Timberlake
Reference to bringing "Sexy Back" with confidence.
I don't stop, I never hesitate
Emphasizing continuous action and lack of hesitation.
Plus it don't start 'til I arrive and so I'm never late
Stating that events don't commence until the arrival.
The time is right get it straight
Reiterating that the time is right for clarity.
The time is right get it straight, come on
Repeating the urgency for understanding and correctness.
I'm so slick it's slide when you ride with it
Describing smoothness in navigating life's challenges.
Like the Y kitted, do or die with it like the Stuy in it
Comparing resilience to the tough environment of Bedford-Stuyvesant.
Fly with it, Do or Die with like the Chi in it
Expressing a fearless and determined attitude similar to Chicago.
Live the life of Riley like my nigga from Guy, shit
Living life carefreely, drawing a parallel to the character Riley from the show "The Life of Riley."
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