Nujabes

Lyrics

[Verse 1: Substantial]
Take that slap to your grill cause you're fake black
Your shit's 8-track
My rhymes rank next to A'That
24 tracks with 32 to murder you
Lyrically it's spiritually with some superb rhyme-ability
Make you hot enough to melt thermometers
My name is known for kilometers
For bombing you
Let me tell you
I'm doper than drug paraphernalia
Down for whatever I represent for good to bad weather

[Verse 2: L-Universe]
I infiltrate your aura expand your mental spare
With this rhyme scheme the vigilante with the chat
Never the first or the last like American presidents having inter-marital affairs
The aftermath of a first landing or leave your house before the party gets abandoned
Make you stiff-necked, kids start dancing my syllabus
And make rhymes like Philebus when I be laughing

[Chorus: Substantial + sample + L-Universe]
Substantial's the name, my man, don't forget it
("The ruggedness, lyrical terrorists")
Hydeout Pro., it's only the beginning
("The ruggedness, lyrical terrorists")
UV's my crew, my man, we coming with it
("The ruggedness, lyrical terrorists")
Minds consecrated, prob-rob logistics
("The ruggedness, lyrical terrorists")
[Verse 3: Substantial]
My man you can't withstand the eviction of ill diction
Smack your ass into a world parallel to this one
Sober emcee iller than most cats older than me
Won't stop till every household contains a poster of me
So who want it? No response, I guess most of them flee
Think you're doper than me? Don't make me choke an emcee
Those rhymes you kicked were garbage son, you're hardly a contender
Your delivery is wack so I gotta return to sender

[verse 4: L-Universe]
Forget the grapevines, I tell you how it is
Perogative emcee double cash we slip it off like a moccasin
Maintain surveillance like inner-city delis
Remaining down low cause I go store for many
Huh? What is the prob, yo? Your face lead red like Moscow flag
My rhymes gitty back through your city like Countach Diablo
Kids think they saw me locked room not the devil the tapes that I give a demo
Dishing my similes through deep incisions
Concave desperates are for broken hearts
Too many rappers be wishing, but don't get the formula
Accrue the troops of antics and open up
First, second, third visuals see the rituals
The sacrificing of two emcees to photogenic put in idols
Oh what a shame this industry
Maybe its time to get going my clothes dusty
[Chorus: Substantial + sample + L-Universe]
Substantial's the name, my man, don't forget it
("The ruggedness, lyrical terrorists")
Hydeout Pro., it's only the beginning
("The ruggedness, lyrical terrorists")
Dominion crew—the high shit, we spit it
("The ruggedness, lyrical terrorists")
Minds consecrated, prob-rob logistics
("The ruggedness, lyrical terrorists")

[Verse 5: Substantial]
Emcees get dismembered January through December
Spits raps until you see a black Klan member
Test not my chest shot damage your arteries
Let my foot in your ass and you look like you're part of me
Now follow me I roll motherfuckers like pottery
Smash it into your plasma and staining the carpetry
Cause stopping me is easier winning the lottery
By now I hope you've gotten a point like archery
And before we blow it we remain on the low like middle names
I had to press for set I was bored with your little games
Cause I got something that is foreign to you, it's called skill
In fact I'm ill enough to smack the black off of Seal
And as if a holy war, your getting punished for your sins
You ride my dick so much I look like Siamese twins
You've been declared wack by unanimous decision
Refrain from kicking raps till you're out of your division
[verse 6: L-Universe]
L-Universe hungry like thousand pariahs, far from enough
With Nujabes as my accomplice
I inhale and exhale verbs, nouns, and adjectives
Rhymes schemes and structures fill my chest cavity
Mishia Pa pedigree lyrically I'm inspired
Spit fire verses my service is entire
I mark more pads than ladies who use Maxis
This international connection bridges and gapsies

[Chorus: Substantial + sample + L-Universe]
Substantial's the name, my man, don't forget it
("The ruggedness, lyrical terrorists")
Hydeout Pro., it's only the beginning
("The ruggedness, lyrical terrorists")
I run with the plague, your wack crew's restricted
("The ruggedness, lyrical terrorists")
Minds consecrated, prob-rob logistics
("The ruggedness, lyrical terrorists")

If there's one thing that the world of music can never get enough of, it's a thought-provoking, lyrically charged hip-hop track. And that's exactly what you'll find in "Lyrical Terrorists" by Nujabes, featuring the talented duo of L-Universe and Substantial. Released in 2003 as part of Nujabes' Hydeout Productions First Collection, this track is a powerful testament to the skills of these artists and their ability to captivate listeners with their words.

About Lyrical Terrorists

"Lyrical Terrorists" is the eighth track on Nujabes' Hydeout Productions First Collection. In this emotionally charged piece, Substantial and L-Universe dive deep into the hip-hop industry, shedding light on their unique perspective as "Lyrical Terrorists" compared to other rappers. The song's title is a bold statement, drawing attention to their exceptional lyrical abilities and their unwavering dedication to their craft. It's a testament to their passion for hip-hop and their desire to challenge the status quo.

The track opens with an infectious beat that immediately grabs your attention, setting the stage for what's to come. Nujabes' expertise in creating captivating melodies and intricate rhythms is on full display here. The combination of smooth, jazzy undertones with the energetic tempo creates a perfect backdrop for the thought-provoking lyrics that follow.

L-Universe and Substantial deliver their verses with exceptional skill and precision, showcasing their mastery of wordplay and clever rhyme schemes. Their powerful voices command your attention as they tackle heavy topics within the hip-hop industry. Addressing the adversity faced by artists who choose to deviate from the mainstream, they assert their position as "Lyrical Terrorists," unafraid to challenge the norms and speak their truth.

The lyrics offer a glimpse into the struggles faced by artists who prioritize substance over commercial appeal. They shed light on the pressure to conform to the industry's expectations and the consequences of speaking one's mind. Through their verses, L-Universe and Substantial manage to convey a raw and authentic portrayal of the hip-hop industry, inviting listeners to reflect on the state of the genre.

What sets "Lyrical Terrorists" apart is not only the powerful message behind its lyrics but also the seamless collaboration between Nujabes, L-Universe, and Substantial. Nujabes' production lays a solid foundation for the artists' verses, blending elements of jazz and hip-hop to create a unique sonic experience. The synergy between the artists is undeniable, with each individual bringing their own distinctive style and flow to the track.

As the song progresses, the intensity builds, drawing in the listener with its infectious energy and thought-provoking lines. L-Universe and Substantial's rhymes are delivered with conviction, their voices intertwining to create a captivating narrative that keeps you hooked from start to finish. The track's structure allows for moments of reflection as well as moments of pure lyrical prowess, showcasing the versatility and depth of these artists.

With "Lyrical Terrorists," Nujabes, L-Universe, and Substantial have created a track that not only showcases their immense talent but also challenges the boundaries of hip-hop. It serves as a reminder of the power of words and the impact they can have on individuals and communities. The song's thought-provoking lyrics, combined with its infectious rhythm, make it a standout piece in Nujabes' discography and a must-listen for any hip-hop enthusiast.

In a world filled with mainstream tracks that often prioritize commercial success over substance, "Lyrical Terrorists" stands tall as a beacon of authenticity and artistic integrity. It reminds us of the importance of embracing diversity within the hip-hop genre and the necessity of allowing artists the freedom to express themselves fully. Nujabes, L-Universe, and Substantial have crafted a song that not only challenges the norm but also celebrates the power of true lyricism.

So, if you're ready to embark on a musical journey that pushes boundaries and challenges the industry's expectations, "Lyrical Terrorists" is the perfect track for you. Prepare to be captivated by the powerful storytelling, skillful wordplay, and infectious beats that make this song a true masterpiece. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of Nujabes, L-Universe, and Substantial as they redefine what it means to be a "Lyrical Terrorist" in the world of hip-hop.

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