The Roots

Lyrics

[Part 1]

[Intro: Black Thought]
Is this fast or normal speed?
Yeah, know what I'm sayin'?
Yeah, table of contents
Are you fuckin' with it? One two
It's the table of contents, come on, come on
Are you fuckin' with it? Uh-huh
It's the table of contents, one two
Are you fuckin' with it? Aw yeah
Uh huh, yo, check it out

[Verse: Black Thought]
You're now in-tuned to the sounds of the
R to the, double-O to the
T-S and I stretch limits of this profession
My voice physically fit, tracks I'm bench-pressin'
The mic chord is an extension of my intestine
Delicate MC's sliced in my delicatessen
My mind state is that of the S-P connection
Pennsy a part of me, South Philly through my arteries
Thought the dark one, fearsome, slump son
My vocal just a knuckle that sucker punched the drum
Hip-hop, yo, that's my hustle and it kill a kingdom
That Fall Apart to drastic proportion
Lost ones out there, you better stand clear
The Fifth Dynasty, it be a world premiere
Cuttin' through, like attorneys at law that's car chasin'
You stargazing, but the force y'all facin'
It's the R-to the, double-O to the, T-S and
Y'all niggas in the mix, keep guessin'
The world traveler in the flesh without question
Last seven years on tour without restin'
Yo, the kind of rapper you should reconsider testin'
Supreme simply, official Dundee
What I bring'll motivate to move your whole country
Throw your hands up if y'all want me to proceed with
And carry out strategic plans to leave with
The title that I'm watchin', Roots we run-ting
My Dundee attire for MC huntin'
Step up and out the ring
Y'all niggas on some other, y'all loud as Don King
But wine drink within the danger zone loungin'
You need to be more aware of your surroundings
Reality at times is astounding enough to get your heart poundin'
It's safe to assume, in all confidence
That I'm one of the illest in the seven continents
Yo, you on my dick, thanks for the compliments
You be fucked up by my table of contents
Bad lieutenant, yo, I been rhymin' since
The fuckin' past tense, fuck no delayin' or playin'
Takin' your wing way back in the day of, yo
Know what I'm sayin'? Kick it, baby you know
Motherfucking mic, what
Motherfucking mic, yeah, yeah
[Part 2]

[Interlude: Malik B]
It's the R-to the, double-O to the
T-S and, damn, yo, yo
It's the R to the, double-O to the
T-S and, yo

[Verse: Malik B]
When I strike to excite, I just aim, I never miss
Embrace you with a hug of death, give your ass a slight kiss
Toxic words that spill over pages, for ages
Impacts like M-16's to twelve gauges
The rage is still in me, never actin' too friendly
Scully down creepin' while you tilted off Henny
Many man begin pure, but in this world of sin, you're
Holdin' tight, your morale will be injured
And scramble, because this game life is the gamble
Vandalize your terrain, go against the grain
Invade your brain wit the collision, causin' division
Sweep your sector, leavin' you niggas for stool-pigeons
Sweep your sector, leavin' you niggas for stool-pigeons
Sweep your sector, leavin' you niggas for stool-pigeons
My religion is a way of life, but the trife replays
'Cause niggas actin shiest these days
Wagin' wars, usin' dynamics cause I'ma slam it
You talkin' all this out out your mouth, you satanic
Roam the planet, always takin' bullshit for granted
Just a cool type of cat, but you still can't understand it
You told to sit back, stand still and chill
Niggas bound to clap shots 'cause they all act ill
With a sour-ass taste, smilin' up in your face
I'm like trust, never leavin' no trial or no trace
Disappear wit the wind, prostration shows the discipline
Twenty-five years of my life, I learned to miss 'em and
Peep the structure of a whole empire
Smuggled sealed tai, pack lyrics like Kaya
Verbal messiah, when I cross, I set a fire
Whack an MC for ten thou' 'cause I'm for hire

Are you ready to dive into the captivating and thought-provoking world of The Roots? If so, then prepare yourself for an extraordinary musical journey with their powerful song, "Table of Contents (Parts 1 & 2)." This dynamic track showcases the lyrical prowess of Black Thought and Malik B, offering a profound insight into their unique style and perspective.

In "Table of Contents (Parts 1 & 2)," The Roots deliver an impactful message through their poetic verses. Divided into two distinct parts, each section explores a different aspect of life, providing a comprehensive and compelling narrative that will leave you mesmerized.

About Table of Contents (Parts 1 & 2)

The first part of the song introduces us to Black Thought, whose masterful performance takes center stage. His effortless rhymes delve into his rap skills and his personal journey as an artist. Black Thought describes himself as a "mind state," intimately connected with his hometown of Pennsy and South Philly. Through his lyrics, he confidently boasts about his ability to cut through competition and make world premieres with his music.

As we move into the second part of the track, Malik B picks up the torch and unleashes raw, unapologetic rhymes, captivating the listener with his gripping storytelling. His lyrics vividly depict a world filled with sin and violence, as he navigates the challenges of survival. We gain a glimpse into the life of a man who has witnessed and experienced much, unafraid to speak his mind through his music. Malik B's rhymes paint a powerful picture of resilience and determination, establishing himself as a verbal messiah capable of igniting fires wherever he goes.

At its core, "Table of Contents (Parts 1 & 2)" embodies the essence of rap and serves as a testament to the importance of authenticity and self-expression. The Roots, with their unparalleled lyrical dexterity, remind us why they stand among the greatest rap groups of all time. Their ability to infuse their music with depth, substance, and a unique perspective sets them apart.

With this exceptional composition, The Roots invite listeners into their world, encouraging them to embrace their individuality and push through adversity. The track resonates with its thought-provoking lyrics, which encourage self-reflection and serve as a reminder that true artistry stems from staying true to oneself.

From start to finish, "Table of Contents (Parts 1 & 2)" captivates with its poetic brilliance, enveloping you in a world of introspection and contemplation. The Roots' ability to convey powerful messages through their music is a testament to their talent and artistry as pioneers of hip-hop. They effortlessly combine intricate wordplay, evocative storytelling, and infectious rhythms to create a sonic masterpiece that will leave a lasting impression.

So, allow yourself to be transported by the sounds of The Roots and embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment through "Table of Contents (Parts 1 & 2)." Prepare to be captivated, enlightened, and inspired by the lyrical genius of Black Thought and Malik B as they redefine the boundaries of rap music.

• Release Date: February 23, 1999
• Artist: The Roots