David Banner

Lyrics

[Intro]
It's gon be aight though
This one's for you, yeah
Cadillac's on 22s
Pimp my voice and mack these beats
Pray to the to the Lord for these Mississippi streets

[Refrain x2]
Cadillac's on 22s
I ain't did nothing in my life but stayed true
Pimp my voice and mack these beats
Pray to the Lord for these Mississippi streets

[Verse 1]
God I know that we pimp, God I know that we wrong
God I know I should talk about more in all my songs
I know these kids are listening, I know I'm here for a mission
But it's so hard to get em when 22" rims are glistening
I know these walls are talking, Lord I want to do right
I tried to fight but these demons they come to me at night
Like my Momma, my Daddy, my girl and all my boys
I lost Michelle but I guess I still got Dwayne and Roy
My cousin Sweets, Mama Lena and Jason
Lord I'm praying for SWAC, my heart is steady pacing
Keep him off them drugs, far away from thugs
He's still my hero but just a shell, man of what he was
Yeah smoke and get a buzz, but God I hear you calling
And shit wrong with balling, but my soul is just steady falling
In to sex and the debt, into an Earthly jail
God I'm stacking my mail but will I end up in hell
[Refrain]

[Verse 2]
Lord they hung Andre Jones
Lord they hung Raynard Johnson
Lord I want to fight back but I'm just so sick of bouncing
Lord I'm sick of jumping, Lord please just tell me something
My folks still dumping my music bumping but I feel nothing
My heart is steady pumping, my heart is steady breaking
Sometimes I feel like I'm faking, man I'm so sick of taking
Maybe hell ain't a place meant for us to burn
Maybe Earth is hell and just a place for us to learn
Bout your love, your will and grace
Sometimes I wish I wasn't born in the first place
Maybe this first base, God knocked the ball up out the park
So we can come home this world right here feeling so dark
It's feeling so cold, Lord I'm getting so old
I don't if I can take this world right here no more
22 inch rims on the 'Lac
I guess that was your footprint in the sand carrying us on your back

[Refrain]

David Banner's "Cadillac on 22's" is a captivating and thought-provoking song that showcases the artist's diversity as an artist and his spiritual side. In this second single, Banner takes the opportunity to share his deep connection with God and his intention to use his music as a means to reach people in the streets with a positive and proactive message. The song is like a musical letter to God, where Banner expresses his unwavering faith and commitment to doing God's work, even amidst the challenges and temptations he faces as an artist.

One striking aspect of "Cadillac on 22's" is Banner's use of symbolism throughout the song and its accompanying video. The Cadillac, traditionally seen as a symbol of wealth and prosperity, takes on a deeper meaning in this context. Banner uses the Cadillac to represent the current state of hip-hop, which is often associated with flashy materialism and excessive consumerism. By doing so, he critiques the obsession with "bling, bling" culture that can have detrimental effects on young and impressionable minds.

The child featured in the video serves as a representative of the millions of kids who are drawn to these flashy images and are unknowingly being led astray. Banner sees himself as a new breed of street-oriented rapper, one who recognizes the power of reaching rap fans through music that resonates with them while also delivering a meaningful message. He aims to provide his audience with music that reflects both the joys and the pains of life, as well as the injustices that occur in the world.

The symbolic meaning behind Banner's connection with the people on the streets is a central theme in "Cadillac on 22's." The video portrays the impact he has on his audience, as they rise to follow him and his music. This representation highlights the transformative power of music, with Banner's songs replenishing their spirits and rejuvenating their outlook on life. He becomes a guiding force, akin to the bluesman playing the guitar in the video, symbolizing the spirit of redemption and the potential for positive change.

About Cadillac on 22's

"Cadillac on 22's" is not only a musically engaging song, but also a testament to David Banner's artistic growth and evolution. The track serves as a stark departure from his previous work, showcasing his ability to delve into deeper and more introspective themes. In this sense, Banner's desire to demonstrate his diversity as an artist truly shines through.

The lyrics of "Cadillac on 22's" offer a glimpse into Banner's personal journey and his unyielding faith in God. He recognizes and acknowledges the challenges he faces as an artist, particularly the temptation to conform to industry norms. Despite this, he remains steadfast in his commitment to serving a higher purpose through his music. This underlying message resonates strongly with listeners, reminding them of the universal struggle to stay true to oneself while navigating the complexities of life.

The production of the song is equally captivating, with its infectious beat and soulful elements. Banner's delivery is passionate and emotive, drawing the listener into his personal narrative. The fusion of hip-hop and soulful blues influences adds depth and richness to the overall sonic experience, further emphasizing the spirituality and soul-searching nature of the song.

Moreover, the visual representation of "Cadillac on 22's" in the accompanying music video enhances the song's impact. The video's storytelling elements, combined with powerful imagery, effectively convey the song's thematic elements and serve as a powerful visual medium to complement Banner's lyrical prowess. The bluesman playing the guitar represents not only the spirit of redemption but also the influence of diverse musical genres on Banner's artistry.

In essence, "Cadillac on 22's" is an exemplary display of David Banner's musical versatility and profound introspection. With its emphasis on spirituality and the transformative power of music, the song serves as a reminder of the potential for positive change that lies within each individual. Through his powerful lyrics and captivating visuals, Banner encourages listeners to embrace their own spiritual journeys and strive to create meaningful impact in their own lives and communities.

• Release Date: 2003
• Artist: David Banner