Lupe Fiasco

Lyrics

[Chorus: Nikki Jean & Lupe Fiasco]
Haile Selassie, high as the eyelids of osprey, I'm thriving
Poseidon, your trident can't stop me, from diving
I'm looking for my, looking for my, looking for my, as I float
Brand new shell for my ghost, tattoos all on my coast

[Interlude: Lupe Fiasco]
"Throughout history, it has been the inaction of those who could have acted
The indifference of those who should have known better
The silence of the voice of justice when it mattered most
This, has made it possible for evil to triumph."
- Selassie, uhh

[Verse 1: Lupe Fiasco]
Man's limitation, transfiguration
Haka dance done at the welcome to the demo
Modern man comes to the weddin' in the limo
Mixin' doves with the rice rain
Uncle Ben's off the rails on the night train
And that storm took us to the platform, pushas
Back to the bachelor's backdoor, unhook us
Hope this track take you back to where the fat girl pushed us
And that's very old
Like Blackberry Bold but the juice
Sweeter than where the party at, or
Releasing these niggas from the roofs, and
Leavin' these niggas on the loose, or
Keepin' these niggas in the coops, and
Leavin' these niggas on the noose, free!
Shamu fan got a world to see!
[Chorus: Nikki Jean & Lupe Fiasco]
Haile Selassie, high as the eyelids of osprey, I'm thriving
Poseidon, your trident can't stop me, from diving
I'm looking for my, looking for my, looking for my, as I float
Brand new shell for my ghost, tattoos all on my coast

[Interlude: Lupe Fiasco]
"Then until the philosophy which holds one race superior and another inferior
Is finally and permanently discredited and abandoned
That until there no longer first class and second class citizens of any nation
Until the color of a man's skin is of no more significance than the color of his eyes."
- Selassie

[Verse 2: Lupe Fiasco]
To the limit, the limit in the Methadone clinic
Ridin' with the pack like a Peloton
Flyin' with the sack in the trap like the pregnant
As it breaks in the backs from the cracks that we step upon
If I triple my worth, will it cripple my mom?
If I simple my search, will it mental my calm?
Will it hurt if I give you my palm?
To tell in it, don't put a nail in it
How you gonna see the world if you a whale in it
And readin' my palms like there's braille in it (braille in it)
Is it the trail or the forest? (forest)
Or the forest with the trail in it?
That's a sail with a 12 in it
Water coming through from impalin' it (water come through for me now)
Nothin' left of the boat but my holes
Still I fill up the world and I float like Haile
[Chorus: Nikki Jean & Lupe Fiasco]
Haile Selassie, high as the eyelids of osprey, I'm thriving
Poseidon, your trident can't stop me, from diving
I'm looking for my, looking for my, looking for my, as I float
Brand new shell for my ghost, tattoos all on my coast

[Interlude: Lupe Fiasco]
"A qualified man with vision, unmoved by daily selfish interests
Led to right decisions by his conscience
In general, a man who knows from whence he comes
And where he's going will cooperate with his fellow human beings
He will not be satisfied with merely doing his ordinary duties
But will inspire others by his good example
You are being watched by the nation
And you should realize, that you will satisfy it if you do good
But on the contrary, you do evil
It will lose its hope and confidence in you."
- Selassie

[Verse 3: Lupe Fiasco]
Hydrant open wide, on the side of the colonized
Swimmin' in the street, fell asleep on my mama thighs
Blockin' out the noise that destroys little boys
Live enjoy, ships ahoy, get deployed by the rock-a-byes
D-d-d-deep into the sea of my dreams
Lyin' fall asleep at the feet of my queen
Hawk, I'ma write to the beat of your wings
Song for the Ethiopian King, Haile
[Chorus: Nikki Jean & Lupe Fiasco]
Haile Selassie, high as the eyelids of osprey, I'm thriving
Poseidon, your trident can't stop me, from diving
I'm looking for my, looking for my, looking for my, as I float
Brand new shell for my ghost, tattoos all on my coast
Haile Selassie, high as the eyelids of osprey, I'm thriving
Poseidon, your trident can't stop me, from diving
I'm looking for my, looking for my, looking for my, as I float
Brand new shell for my ghost, tattoos all on my coast

Haile Selassie, the iconic name that resonates with power, spirituality, and controversy. In the realms of Ethiopian history, Haile Selassie was not just a regent and emperor but a figure who stirred passions, ideals, and contradictions. This enigmatic figure serves as the centerpiece for Lupe Fiasco's song "Haile Selassie" featuring the soulful vocals of Nikki Jean. Released in 2014 as part of the mixtape Lost in the Atlantic, this song dives deep into the life and legacy of Haile Selassie, crafting a narrative that traverses political achievements, messianic beliefs, and the criticisms faced by this extraordinary leader.

About Haile Selassie

Haile Selassie, magnificently adorned in political accolades, held the position of regent for 14 years before ascending to become the Emperor of Ethiopia for a remarkable 44 years. A champion of his country, Selassie played a pivotal role in placing Ethiopia on the global stage by becoming a founding member of the United Nations. His visionary ideals paved the way for Ethiopia to be recognized as a force to be reckoned with in the international community.

Yet, Haile Selassie's larger-than-life persona extended beyond politics. Many viewed him as a messiah, a divine incarnation walking among mortals. This spiritual perspective attributed supernatural qualities to Selassie, positioning him as a God-reincarnate in the earthly realm. The fervent belief in his divinity became an integral aspect of Rastafarianism, a religious movement that emerged in Jamaica and found solace in the figure of Haile Selassie as the embodiment of their faith.

Lupe Fiasco's song captures the intricacies and contradictions associated with Haile Selassie's persona. It delves into the political achievements that elevated Ethiopia's status, shedding light on Selassie's role in suppressing rebellions that threatened the nation's stability. These efforts were, however, not exempt from criticism, as human rights activists voiced their concerns about the regent's governing methods.

The song "Haile Selassie" weaves a lyrical tapestry that navigates the perplexing terrain of Selassie's legacy. Lupe Fiasco's poetic verses paint vivid pictures of Ethiopia's political landscape during Selassie's reign. The impassioned delivery of Nikki Jean's vocals adds a soul-stirring dimension to the narrative, evoking the spiritual undercurrents associated with Selassie's messianic image.

Within the song's lyrics, Lupe Fiasco contemplates the conflicting aspects of Haile Selassie's persona. He raises thought-provoking questions, inviting listeners to reflect upon the complexities of this revered yet criticized figure. The song's rhythmic beats act as a vessel for the lyrical journey, propelling the listener further into the depths of Haile Selassie's life and the emotions that encircle his existence.

"Haile Selassie" stands not only as a testament to the power of music but also as a tribute to a deeply influential historical figure. By infusing the song with historical facts, personal introspection, and social commentary, Lupe Fiasco and Nikki Jean create a musical tapestry that invites listeners to explore the multifaceted legacy of Haile Selassie. It serves as a reminder that even the most revered individuals carry a nuanced narrative, filled with triumphs, shortcomings, and the complexities of human existence.

Bringing Haile Selassie to Life

Lupe Fiasco's lyrical prowess shines as he crafts a powerful narrative that draws from the rich history of Haile Selassie. His words encapsulate the significance of Selassie's political achievements, portraying him as a driving force in Ethiopia's journey to international recognition. Through vivid descriptions and clever metaphors, Fiasco brings the regent's story to life, capturing the essence of his time in power.

Nikki Jean's soulful vocals complement Fiasco's verses, adding emotional depth to the narrative. Her voice carries the weight of Selassie's messianic image, evoking a sense of reverence and spirituality. Together, Fiasco and Jean create a harmonious blend of sound and story, enveloping the listener in the captivating tale of Haile Selassie.

By exploring the intertwining themes of power, spirituality, and criticism, "Haile Selassie" goes beyond being just a song. It becomes a medium through which history comes alive, allowing listeners to embark on a journey that traverses the complexities of an enigmatic figure's life. Through the combination of music, lyrics, and historical references, Lupe Fiasco and Nikki Jean masterfully capture the essence of Haile Selassie, immortalizing his legacy within the realm of music.

The song "Haile Selassie" is a testament to the profound influence a historical figure can have on the creative realms of music. Through poetic verses and soulful melodies, Lupe Fiasco and Nikki Jean breathe life into the complexities surrounding Haile Selassie's persona. It invites us to ponder the diverse aspects of this enigmatic leader's life, heralding the power of music in deepening our understanding of historical figures and the narratives they inspire.

• Release Date: October 24, 2014
• Artist: Lupe Fiasco