Nujabes

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Lord, if they only knew them nights it took
Burnt candles by the dozen to ignite the soul fire
Sheer energy to release to melt the heart
Mind starved, voice carved onto wax (and still get taxed)
Relax, unrest unless undressed to the core
Ever so slowly, wash away old skin like springs of sulfur
So far so good, what's life got to offer?
Youth stare curiously analyze the facts
Who's there to encourage give a pat on their back
How come society wanna grow and ignore small dreams
Big team, now every work is a chore
I adore each step, hop skip a cadence
Travel distant in the age of decadence
Do this in reverence to the older veterans
Stripes on their chest plus a chip on their shoulder
Street soldiers cut without severance
But keep hustling anyways for the L or the F of it
Effervescent light guide the way
Fear no evil, once lost now found
Like the last man down in the towering inferno of Babylon
First In Last Out

[Verse 2]
Thirstin' first drop just wet my appetite
But couldn't satisfy my craving for beats
Rap tight like a Christmas gift
'Tis night is an eve for a generation to uplift
Live life like a testimony
Simple rhymes in difficult times help a friend
Through a lonely tunnel at the end
Every maze a funnel into a wine bottle
And corked inside a message so mind boggling, a puzzle
Amazed at the grace having reached a goal
Knock twice on the gate heaven preach a soul
True knowledge of self shine brighter than all
For one part getting polished you better the whole
The sum of the characters carry over your role
24-karat gold, each day is a jewel
Case closed when the end credits roll
Self-representative and elected, yes I
Give and get give back to the constituents
Sit you in a chair and break down the affairs
There's nuthin fashionable
About arriving late in the game and acting OG
'Cause you can't pay dues with credit or cash
Quicktime soft players streaming all the flash
So I'm sticking copper pins into media outlets
Then I hop up in a black van and I'm out
Let's get wit the program, shut the Dow Jonesing down
We keep underground dowsing
Microphones iron casting, everlasting sound
Blasting, no doubt
First In Last Out!
[Outro]
F.I.L.O, I'd rather do nothin' else
If I follow my heart to the last pulse
Like the last man down in the towering inferno of Babylon
First In Last Out
Like the last man down in the towering inferno of Babylon
First In Last Out

When it comes to the world of underground hip-hop, few names hold as much reverence and significance as Nujabes. With his unique blend of jazz, soul, and hip-hop, Nujabes captured the hearts of music lovers worldwide. One of the standout tracks from his debut album "Metaphorical Music" is the mesmerizing "F.I.L.O." featuring the talented Shing02. This song not only showcases the immense talent of both artists but also delves into the unwavering dedication and passion that drives them in their respective careers.

About F.I.L.O.

"F.I.L.O." stands for "First in Last Out," a phrase that holds deep meaning and significance within the rap community. In this track, Shing02 takes center stage and delves into his own personal journey and commitment to his craft as a rap artist. With his captivating flow and thought-provoking lyrics, Shing02 paints a vivid picture of the sacrifices and perseverance required to succeed within the highly competitive music industry.

What sets "F.I.L.O." apart is not only its lyrical prowess but also the incredible production by Nujabes. Known for his ability to seamlessly blend different genres, Nujabes creates a mesmerizing backdrop for Shing02's lyrics. The track features a distinctive jazz influence, incorporating smooth piano melodies, soulful samples, and infectious drum patterns. Each element perfectly complements Shing02's delivery, creating an enchanting fusion of sound that captures the listener from start to finish.

Furthermore, "F.I.L.O." holds even deeper significance when performed in a live setting. During a tribute concert for Nujabes at the Lyric Theater, Shing02 took the opportunity to explain the meaning behind the song. In his own words, he shed light on the passion and determination that fueled his journey as a rap artist, making "F.I.L.O." not just a track but a personal testament to his relentless pursuit of musical excellence.

As the track progresses, Shing02's lyrics showcase his unique storytelling ability, engaging the listener with vivid imagery and intricate wordplay. He is unafraid to dive into personal experiences, sharing intimate moments that resonate and create a strong connection with the audience. Shing02's flow effortlessly rides the beats provided by Nujabes, perfectly encapsulating the emotions and energy of the track.

With its introspective themes and captivating production, "F.I.L.O." stands as a testament to the artistic brilliance of Nujabes and Shing02. The song not only serves as a representation of their individual talents but also as a celebration of the dedication and passion that drives artists to create meaningful music. It serves as a reminder that behind each track lies countless hours of hard work, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to self-expression.

Ultimately, "F.I.L.O." by Nujabes featuring Shing02 is a truly remarkable piece of music that transcends the boundaries of genre. It invites the listener to delve into the world of underground hip-hop and experience the raw talent and authenticity that permeates each verse. Whether you are a longtime fan of Nujabes or discovering his music for the first time, "F.I.L.O." is a must-listen track that will leave a lasting impact and inspire a deeper appreciation for the artistry of these talented musicians.

• Release Date: August 23, 2003
• Artist: Nujabes