Erykah Badu

checked

Tyrone

Erykah Badu

Lyrics

[Intro]
"Now keep in mind that I'm an artist
And I'm sensitive about my shit"
(Audience cheering)
"But y'all been nice about it"
"Alright"
"Sisters, How Ya'll Feel?" (Girls Cheering)
"Brothers, Ya'll Alright?" (Guys Cheering)
"Lets See How Ya'll Groove to this"
"Alright"

[Verse 1]
I'm gettin' tired of your Shit
You don't never buy me nothin'
See Everytime you come around
You got to bring Jim, James, Paul, & Tyrone
See why can't we be by ourselves, sometimes
See I've been having this on my mind
For a long time
I just want it to be
You and me
Like It used to be, Baby
But ya don't know how to act
So matter of fact

[Hook]
I think ya better call Tyrone
(Call Him)
And Tell him come on, Help you get your Shit (Come On, Come on)
You need to Call Tyrone
(Call Him)
And tell him I said come on
[Verse 2]
Now everytime I ask you for a little cash
You say no and turn right around and ask me for some ass
Oh, Well hold up
Listen partner
I ain't no cheap thrill
Cause Miss Badu is always comin' for real
And you know the deal, nigga
Everytime we go somewhere
I gotta reach down in my purse
To pay your way and your homeboys way
And sometimes your cousin's way
They don't never have to pay
Don't have no cars
Hang around in bars
Try to hang around with stars
Like Badu
I'm gon' tell you the truth
Showing groove
Or get the boot

[Hook]
I think ya better call Tyrone, (He, he he)
(Call Him)
And tell him come on
Help you get your shit
(Come On, Come on, Come On)
You need to call Tyrone
(Call Him)
"Hold On"
But ya can't use my phone
[Outro]
(Audience Cheering)Embed

Tyrone is one of Erykah Badu’s most popular and iconic tracks, from her debut album Baduizm back in 1997. It features a raw and emotional performance from the singer, with her distinctive honey-like vocals backed by a minimalistic instrumental arrangement that perfectly complements the song’s message.

The song begins with an instantly recognizable line, “I'm gettin' tired of your shit,” and from there, the mood is set. Tyrone is essentially an anthem for all the people who are tired of being mistreated by their partners and don’t have the time or energy for any more nonsense. Erykah Badu sings the song’s verses in a conversational tone, almost as if she’s telling a friend about her relationship troubles, while the chorus finds her passionately belting out, “You better call Tyrone” to her neglectful lover.

About Tyrone

Released in 1997 as the lead single from Badu’s debut album, Tyrone quickly cemented itself as a classic and remains one of the most recognizable songs of Erykah Badu’s career. The song was written by Badu and her cousin, Robert ‘Free’ Bradford, and showcases the signature neo-soul sound that Badu helped pioneer in the 90s.

At its core, Tyrone is a break-up song, but it’s unique in that it’s not necessarily about the end of a relationship, but rather a call to action for a partner to step up and start treating their significant other with the respect they deserve. The song’s lyrics paint a picture of a relationship where the singer feels undervalued and ignored, and after reaching her breaking point, Badu decides to take matters into her own hands and sends her lover packing.

What makes Tyrone such a standout track is the way the lyrics are delivered. Badu’s performance is raw and unfiltered, with every word dripping with emotion. It’s a relatable and empowering message that anyone who’s ever been in a toxic relationship can understand. The call-and-response chorus in particular has become legendary, with fans singing along and shouting out the iconic line, “You better call Tyrone,” whenever the song is played.

Beyond its lyrical content, Tyrone is also a masterclass in minimalist production. The track features little more than a drum machine, electric piano, and bass guitar, but the sparse arrangement manages to pack a punch and allows Badu’s vocals to take center stage. The song’s live performances are equally impressive, often featuring extended ad-libs and call-and-response sections with the audience.

Since its initial release over two decades ago, Tyrone has remained a fan-favorite and a staple in Erykah Badu’s live performances. It’s a timeless classic with a message that’s just as relevant today as it was in 1997, and a testament to Badu’s skill as a songwriter and performer.