Music Essay - An Analysis of the Rap Song, Put it On

An Analysis of the Rap Song, Put it On

While on a recent carefree jaunt throughout Harlem, I was introduced to the lyrical genius of one “Big L.” As is common of all true artists, Mr. L passed before his time, but not without a legacy. You see, it is the will of the Almighty Himself that I elucidate the meaning of Mr. L’s first major work, “Put it On,” in order for it to be made accessible to the common man and the upper crust alike, so that this truly majestic piece may live for eternity in the bosom of humankind. To this end, I have composed a line-for-line translation of the complex, sophisticated diction, which, I expect, will henceforth serve as the standard through which all scholars will study this master of the English language.

Verse One

Ayo you better flee, hops, or get your head thrown three blocks.

L keep rappers’ hearts pumpin’ like Reeboks.

And every year I gain clout and my name sprout.

Some brothers would still be virgins if crack never came out.

I got the wild style, always been a foul child

My guns go boom-boom, and your guns go pow-pow.

I'm known to have a hottie open, I keep the shottie smokin,’

Front and get half the bones in your body broken.

And when it comes to getting’ nookie I'm not a rookie-

I got girls that make that chick Toni Braxton look like Whoopie.

I run with sturdy cliques, I'm never hittin’ dirty chicks,

Got thirty-five bodies, buddy, don't make it thirty-six.

Step to this, you're good as gone. Word is bond.

I leave mics torn when I put it on.

Summary: This verse serves to make a strong impression of Mr. L. We first learn that he is not to be toyed with. Big then threatens his opponents, speaks briefly about his fondness for firearms, and draws attention to his sex appeal. As for a more detailed analysis of the verse:

Ayo you better flee, hops, or get your head thrown three blocks.

L keep rappers’ hearts pumpin’ like Reeboks.

Greetings. You had better take flight, my good man, or else you will receive a wallop - for I am to be feared.

And every year I gain clout and my name sprout.

Some brothers would still be virgins if crack never came out.

I strengthen my fame on an annual basis. Hence, my name becomes increasingly better known with time. Incidentally, a number of black men would still have not had sexual relations with women, had it not been for the advent of crack cocaine.