The Roots

Lyrics

[Hook: Patty Crash]
Street dreams, close your eyes
Say goodbye to my memory
Street dreams, this is the moment
The moment that feels like forever
This is the end, to where I began
And it feels like forever
They say time flies
Down from the sky, and says never (Never, never)
I look down (Down, down)
All I see is never (Never, never)
And all I know, is all I know (All I know, I know, I know...)

[Instrumental Interlude]

[Verse: Black Thought]
I was born faceless in an oasis
Folks disappear here and leave no traces
No family ties nigga, no laces
Less than a full deck nigga, no aces
Waitin' on Superman, losing all patience
Gettin' wasted on an everyday basis
I'm stuck here, can't take a vacation
So fuck it, this shit is damnation
This is reality, mane
Ain't no surprise I've been bangin' without any mane
What is this? Gotta be brave
When into the night I'ma go quietly mane
Life is a bitch and then you live
Until one day by death you're found
I tried to keep both of my feet on the ground
But I know my head is surrounded by clouds
Spirallin' down, destined to drown
Forever is just a collection of nows
Off on my own, nowhere is my home
Approaching infinity's fork in the road
When I was young, something I often was told
It's not a bargain if it costs you your soul
Costs you your pride, caution aside
I'm gone with the wind and along for the ride
Wish I could rest, and open my eyes
But time ain't finna fly down from the sky
A place where the lonely love
Not another soul's there, only us (Only us, only us)
[Hook: Patty Crash]
Street dreams, close your eyes
Say goodbye to my memory
Street dreams, this is the moment
The moment that feels like forever
This is the end, to where I began
And it feels like forever
They say time flies
Down from the sky, and says never (Never, never)
I look down (Down, down)
All I see is never (Never, never)
And all I know, is all I know

[Outro: Patty Crash]
I woke with a tear drop
All I know, it's all I know
I woke with a tear drop
All I know, it's all I know
It's all I know, all I know (Know, know, know)

What happens when you combine the raw talent of The Roots with the soulful vocals of Patty Crash? You get "Never," an electrifying track that showcases the incredible musicality and lyrical prowess of this collaboration. Featured on The Roots' eleventh studio album, "...and then you shoot your cousin," this song is a standout gem in their discography.

When you first listen to "Never," you'll be immediately drawn in by the infectious rhythm and hypnotic beats. The song starts off with a catchy melodic hook that grabs your attention and sets the tone for what's to come. As the track progresses, the intricate layers of instrumentation seamlessly blend together to create a rich and immersive sound.

One of the standout elements of "Never" is Patty Crash's mesmerizing vocals. With her soulful and emotive delivery, she adds an extra layer of depth and emotion to the song. Her voice effortlessly glides over the music, evoking a sense of vulnerability and passion that resonates with the listener.

Lyrically, "Never" delves into themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. The Roots' thought-provoking and introspective lyrics paint a vivid picture of the ups and downs of life and the profound impact that certain experiences can have on us. The blend of clever wordplay and poignant storytelling creates a narrative that is both relatable and deeply impactful.

Throughout "Never," The Roots showcase their incredible musicality and versatility. Known for their ability to seamlessly blend different genres, they incorporate elements of hip-hop, soul, and R&B to create a sound that is uniquely their own. The intricate production and attention to detail elevate the song to new heights, making it a true masterpiece.

But it's not just the music that sets "Never" apart; the song also has a powerful message. It serves as a reminder to never give up, to keep fighting for what you believe in, and to never lose sight of your dreams. The lyrics inspire a sense of resilience and determination, urging listeners to overcome obstacles and pursue their passions wholeheartedly.

"Never" is a song that refuses to be confined by any one genre or categorization. It transcends boundaries, bridging the gap between different musical styles and appealing to a wide range of listeners. Whether you're a fan of hip-hop, soul, or simply appreciate good music, this track is sure to leave a lasting impression.

About Never

Released in 2014, "Never" is the second track on The Roots' eleventh studio album, "...and then you shoot your cousin." This critically acclaimed album showcases The Roots' signature sound while tackling deep and thought-provoking themes.

The collaboration with Patty Crash on "Never" adds an extra layer of dynamism to the song. Patty Crash, an incredibly talented vocalist hailing from Philadelphia, brings her soulful and captivating voice to the track, complementing The Roots' artistry perfectly. Her contributions add an emotional depth to the song that resonates with listeners on a profound level.

Produced by longtime Roots collaborator and multi-instrumentalist James Poyser, "Never" boasts a rich and complex musical arrangement. Poyser's expertise shines through in the meticulously crafted layers of instrumentation that create a sonic landscape that is both captivating and immersive.

One of the defining features of "Never" is the masterful use of sampling. The song samples the iconic track "Interlude" by jazz pianist Ahmad Jamal, which adds a nostalgic and introspective touch to the overall sound. The Roots' skillful incorporation of this sample demonstrates their ability to pay homage to their musical influences while putting their unique spin on the music.

"Never" also showcases The Roots' ability to seamlessly combine live instrumentation with electronic elements. This fusion of analog and digital creates a dynamic and evolving soundscape that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish. The meticulous attention to detail in the production ensures that every beat, every note, and every lyric shines through.

As with many of The Roots' songs, the lyrics in "Never" are a standout aspect. The introspective and poetic verses delve into themes of love, pain, and personal growth. Each line is carefully crafted, offering a glimpse into the complex emotions and experiences that shape us as individuals.

Throughout the song, The Roots skillfully navigate through different musical sections, showcasing their versatility as artists. They effortlessly transition between verses, hooks, and instrumental breaks, creating a composition that feels cohesive and well-structured. This attention to detail and mastery of song structure is a testament to The Roots' musical prowess.

In a world where music often feels disposable and fleeting, "Never" stands as a testament to the power of artistry. The Roots, alongside Patty Crash, deliver a captivating and thought-provoking track that resonates with listeners not only on a sonic level but also on a deeply emotional and intellectual level. It is a song that speaks to the complexities of the human experience and the everlasting power of music.

So, if you're ready to embark on a musical journey that will captivate your senses and leave you feeling inspired, give "Never" a listen. Let The Roots and Patty Crash take you on a sonic adventure that transcends boundaries and reminds you of the irrevocable impact that music can have.

• Release Date: May 19, 2014
• Artist: The Roots