1. |
Vintage
01:19
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[FenaxiZ - Verse One]
This that vintage like them vinyl 12-inches
Smooth grooves producer use and loop for instrumentals
They finding, beat-mining, constant rewinding
And this been the way since like back in the day
'Cause it's vintage, before Hip-Hop was big business
Good times when it was about lyrics, not image
Pete Rock let the beat knock, still the street was hot
But beef was squashed least when the needle dropped
Straight vintage, too young to get in a club entrance
So you could spot me jumping fences or drunk on benches
Skipping class, living fast, spitting raps
All for nothing, but like I said, it's in the past
Like vintage, like Juice, Friday, and Menace
Illmatics, Ready To Dies, Extinction Agendas
Smoothe Hustlers 'fore Jigga had new customers
Doggystyle 'fore Common knew was love is
It's vintage unlike these phony pretenders
And studio killers, the real thugs, for instance
Will eat your food, breakfasts, lunches, and dinners
Times changed, climate's strange, summers are winters
It's vintage back when gwop was called spinach
For the love of it, life gets finished so senseless
Only solution I can lend is independence
With unity between you and me, and I'ma end this
Vintage
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2. |
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[FenaxiZ - Intro]
Yeah, FenaxiZ here
Vintage, yeah
It's been awhile since I've blessed y'all
(How long, yo?)
Six years to be exact
Had to drop a little status update
To let everybody know what time it is
And where my mind's at nowadays
Ha
[FenaxiZ - Verse One]
For the first time, I feel like I've landed
Both feet on this planet, I'm free and I'm standing
Where I wanna be, my circle's tight and I'm drama-free
Confident the competition ain't strong as me
'Cause I been in the gym, lifting weights, running laps
Counting reps, pumping plates, and jumping jacks
Training hard for my health at the very least
Been baking bread everytime my Blackberry beeps
With text messages, I'm just tryna connect
With executives in stretch Lexuses
So I can live and retire young, don't get it twisted
I love my position, but I'm capable of a higher one
'Cause this life's what you make it
So above all, stay true to myself, fuck the fake shit
As far as this industry, I love and hate it
But the clowns, for the most part, I've done away with
[royceBirth - Chorus]
Whoa ho, been through the lows and highs
Had times that I'd wanna say goodbye
But in this game of life, I play to win
At the end, no, I wouldn't change a thing
Whoa ho, had laughs and then I cried
Had times that I didn't wanna try
But hope I didn't make this a minute too late
Just to let you know, here's my status update
Whoa ho
[FenaxiZ - Verse Two]
As for where I been, I moved out plus I finished school
Had to step back and see what I was meant to do
Hard to find time to rhyme when your rent is due
But now, I'ma grind for mine whether I win or lose
I'm the verses and hooks, y'all the interludes
Go against my squad, you better think it through
And I've been great, been eating, been amused
Been meeting all the rappers that I listened to
Growing up, back in the days when I was drinking brews
Hardheaded, I don't budge, not an inch or two
I'm Timbs and hoodies so fuck a business suit
Can't live if what I rep don't agree with my inner views
I'm a saint and I'm a sinner too
Play the cards I was dealt, but I bend the rules
Hip-Hop's been my wifey ever since my youth
I'm just tryna cross shit off of my list of things to do before I die
[royceBirth - Chorus]
Whoa ho, been through the lows and highs
Had times that I'd wanna say goodbye
But in this game of life, I play to win
At the end, no, I wouldn't change a thing
Whoa ho, had laughs and then I cried
Had times that I didn't wanna try
But hope I didn't make this a minute too late
Just to let you know, here's my status update
Whoa ho
[FenaxiZ - Verse Three]
This is street realism through rhymes, beats, and rhythm
I'm on a daily quest in search of peace and wisdom
Observing while fools would rather speak than listen
I'm everyday people, same time, I'm uniquely different
And this a message for the masses: keep resisting
One way or another, we gonna beat the system
Do whatever it takes to leave an imprint
And mold a better future for the seeds to live in
We deserve to bank hard and push whips where it's sunny
Far as screwfaces go, they gets nothing from me
But a devilish grin, they wanna see Fenny plummet
'Cause I'ma lock the city like the G20 Summit
It's all about the cash and I need plenty of it
Haters gonna hate, but they'll believe when he does it
So here's a toast to my friends and opponents
Life's too short, y'all, live in the moment
[royceBirth - Chorus]
Whoa ho, been through the lows and highs
Had times that I'd wanna say goodbye
But in this game of life, I play to win
At the end, no, I wouldn't change a thing
Whoa ho, had laughs and then I cried
Had times that I didn't wanna try
But hope I didn't make this a minute too late
Just to let you know, here's my status update
Whoa ho
[FenaxiZ - Outro]
I've laughed, I've cried
I've lived, I've died
I've gained, and I've lost
I've won, paid the cost
I've tried, and I've failed
Been strong, been so frail
So I'm always gonna play to win
I've learned money ain't a thing
At the end of it all
I wouldn't change a thing, ha
[royceBirth - Chorus]
Whoa ho, been through the lows and highs
Had times that I'd wanna say goodbye
But in this game of life, I play to win
At the end, no, I wouldn't change a thing
Whoa ho, had laughs and then I cried
Had times that I didn't wanna try
But hope I didn't make this a minute too late
Just to let you know, here's my status update
Whoa ho
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3. |
The Real Toronto
04:38
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[FenaxiZ - Verse One]
Ash floats to the paper as I write this down
In a region I recall where my life's been found
Just taking in the smells, all the sights and sounds
From sun up to last call when lights go out
And the scene's dark, concrete blocks, fiends starve
Try your luck against chess players in Queen's Park
It's the T-Dot, sidewalk lined by treetops
Swings, slides, and seesaws, minds with deep thoughts
Taste the Danforth, you can dine in Greek spots
Spadina's got cheap socks, fake Nikes and Reeboks
Cops keep watch, people need jobs
The street's hot like when Jarvis junkies heat rocks
Kids beatbox, graf writers design scripts
Since The Transformation Project of '96
Summertime, you'll find thick dime chicks line strips
Everybody rushing, always feels like time ticks
Students, hustlers, everyday citizens
Hard-working immigrants tryna earn dividends
In this inner-city, it's easy to lose innocence
Whether raised in Rosedale or urban tenements
Toronto, popular place for out-of-towners
They come in to sight-see the tourist traps around us
Like the Tower, the Ex, the Hockey Hall of Fame
But to us screwface natives, it's all the same, huh
[FenaxiZ - Chorus]
The good, the bad, the beauty, the ugly
The young, the old, the smart, the dummy
The peace, the war, the poor, the wealthy
The hoods, the 'burbs, the sick, the healthy
The love, the hate, the true, the fake
The strong, the weak, the asleep, the awake
The success, the hustle, the stress, the struggle
It is what it is and this the real Toronto
[FenaxiZ - Verse Two]
There's foot soldiers, hood posters, kush smokers
Bathurst and Wilson, nannies push strollers
The club district's in bed with the drug business
Kids pop pills while DJs dub mixes
Late-night 'til it break light, jam done
Beating juice on the DVP, be on the news like CTV
Vech crashed, jeep smashed, heat stashed under the seat
It's a shame, he just wanted to eat a pizza slice
T.O, yo, we smoke shisha pipes
Bus fare ain't fair, but they still increase the price
So walk with me past food banks, fruit stands
Cad butts on the ground, and empty soup cans
And let me guide you through this world-class city
The real Toronto's half-pretty, half-gritty
From stock trading in Bay & King to trendy Yorkville
The beaches, upper-class Forest Hill
We've got it all: fresh gardens, the best markets
Queen Street West, purchase Guess garments
Then projects like Regent or Jamestown apartments
At any time, a bum's sleeping on a park bench
Just an example of another broken man
City Hall's got closed pockets for his opened hands
Dropout rate's skyhigh so many youth don't advance
But they'd rather spend their time enforcing smoking bans
Good luck understanding our local spoken slang
Where we use the metric system to chop dope in grams
Adolescents learn how to drive with stolen vans
And we drink Labatt Blue and Molson brands
Where I'm from, some grown ups refuse to grow up
We gonna tear T.O up when the Leafs bring home the Cup
It'll feel like that night that propane exploded
Gotta take the city back before Rogers owns it
There's so much to cover, but no time to show it all
And that ain't counting all the days that I don't recall
Sometimes I sit back, write a rhyme then erase it
Recall the skyline in my mind then pencil trace it
[FenaxiZ - Chorus x 2]
The good, the bad, the beauty, the ugly
The young, the old, the smart, the dummy
The peace, the war, the poor, the wealthy
The hoods, the 'burbs, the sick, the healthy
The love, the hate, the true, the fake
The strong, the weak, the asleep, the awake
The success, the hustle, the stress, the struggle
It is what it is and this the real Toronto
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4. |
Golden Age
03:49
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[FenaxiZ - Intro]
Yeah, yeah
I been on this planet like, what, 20-odd years and change
Been through lots, but still got far to go
Made mistakes along the way
No regrets, no apologies
This is me
[FenaxiZ - Verse One]
Sitting in the wind, just watching kids play since way
Back in the sixth grade, a flip made mixtapes
Like Mastermind, Pharcyde's "Passing Me By"
Redlife when RapCity was after five
Asking "Why?" at what I wondered at, mornings was Thundercats
Run to class, scuff my pants on the wet summer grass
No worry, Mel was so purdy, Ol' Dirty
Big Smalls, and Onyx, trading cards and comics
Got taxed by the Parkway, Street Fighter II
Wizard's Arcade, valentines were heart-shaped
Red Rover, Red Rover, angel on my left shoulder
I gots to make mines soon as I get older
Like them bigger boys, yo, they'd all ride crazy whips
Mama cried when my baby sis died in '86
But that moment paved a path to my golden age
Skinned-knees and growing pains, y'all, those were the days
[DJ Incise - Chorus]
*Scratching*
"Take a trip to train yards and think back" - El Da Sensai
"My mic check is life or death, breathing a sniper's breath" - Nas
"Break it down with the vintage, the innovative" - Mos Def
"I got soul" - Rakim
"Rapper's are in danger" - O.C
"Take a trip" - El Da Sensai
"I originate" - Greg Nice
"Well, I said come on, y'all" - Common
"Break it down with the vintage, the innovative, classical b-boy image" - Mos Def
[FenaxiZ - Verse Two]
Was a time Johnny's opened seven days a week
When my lips never tasted weed and STC
Was the place to be, way before the blunt smoke
When sun-soaked girls hop-scotched and jumped rope
Ya dunno, we'd catch flicks after class
Eat Apple Jacks around when the Jays won back-to-backs
I used to drop a purple ticket for the bus ride
Before B.E.T, before MuchVibe
Parties was live, speakers blasting out boom-bap
But soon that changed when the new rap came
My boy G packed a pack of sharpies
Bonez'd push a ride to Sharkies without car keys
We'd spark trees and let time fly, memories fade in
But this the end of the line like Kennedy Station
And those moments paved the path to my golden age
Skinned-knees and growing pains, y'all, those were the days
[DJ Incise - Chorus]
*Scratching*
"Take a trip to train yards and think back" - El Da Sensai
"My mic check is life or death, breathing a sniper's breath" - Nas
"Break it down with the vintage, the innovative" - Mos Def
"I got soul" - Rakim
"Rapper's are in danger" - O.C
"Take a trip" - El Da Sensai
"I originate" - Greg Nice
"Well, I said come on, y'all" - Common
"Break it down with the vintage, the innovative, classical b-boy image" - Mos Def
[FenaxiZ - Verse Three]
It's the end of this genesis as I reminisce
On tall cans of Guinesses, rope chains, four elements
Ever since Betamax tapes, Nintendo cartridges
I'd make poems that break bones, tear cartilage
My mind travels to rhyme battles, I'd come alone
To watch today's vets take next at the Comfort Zone
Before it shut down, I caught the train uptown
Then transferred on the 54 bus bound East
To ride home, when Roger's Centre was called the SkyDome
Before they replaced brick cellies with the iPhone
And more things change, more they stay the same
Pops now grey in the hair, but girls still playing games
I'm past the past, striving for a better future
Still the skinny flip who used to chill up at Shooters
Where moments paved the path to my golden age
Skinned-knees and growing pains... y'all know the rest
[DJ Incise - Chorus]
*Scratching*
"Take a trip to train yards and think back" - El Da Sensai
"My mic check is life or death, breathing a sniper's breath" - Nas
"Break it down with the vintage, the innovative" - Mos Def
"I got soul" - Rakim
"Rapper's are in danger" - O.C
"Take a trip" - El Da Sensai
"I originate" - Greg Nice
"Well, I said come on, y'all" - Common
"Break it down with the vintage, the innovative, classical b-boy image" - Mos Def
[FenaxiZ - Outro]
DJ Incise, break it down, yo
[DJ Incise - Outro]
*Scratching*
"Break it down with the vintage, the innovative, classical b-boy image" - Mos Def
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5. |
The Way
04:07
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[Bruce Lee sample - Intro]
This is what it is, ok
I said empty your mind
Be formless, shapeless like water
Now you put water into a cup
It becomes the cup
You put water into a bottle
It becomes the bottle
You put it in the teapot
It becomes the teapot
Now water can flow or it can crash
Be water, my friend
[FenaxiZ - Verse One]
It's so beautiful the way my life's improved
Ever since I replaced my heavy heart with a lighter mood
And it brought me up, from the clowns, I'm twice removed
It's all or nothing, I don't fight to lose
Early morning, meditate, lotus position
Clear my head, set it straight to focus my vision
Since I got a lotta of eyes to open, mouths to shut
When my team was down on our luck, so many doubted US!
Well, now what's up, I got the streets under lock and key
On top of the world that used to be on top of me
All because I'm spreading my name
Shaking hands, making fans, collecting my change
Tryna stay at least ten steps ahead of this game
I got my sights set, yo, I've steadied my aim
And at the end of this day when it's all said and done
I'm just getting started so my best has yet to come
[FenaxiZ - Chorus]
Balance, perseverance, and discipline
Fools speak while the wise stay listening
I am the sole controller of the universe
First shall be last, the last shall be first
The mind's a weapon, the body a temple
Nothing's forever, death is eventual
Always follow the flow, never fight with it
And these are the ways to enlightenment
[FenaxiZ - Verse Two]
Forget the politricks, cheap gimmicks, and weak lyrics
If it ain't from the heart, I don't need to hear it
That's the way it goes, I'm outspoken with my mouth open
When I put my foot down, I leave the ground broken
But on another note, I'm about to detonate
Like *boom* so call the bomb squad, I'm a sec away
Plus my status ain't your average ordinary
When it comes to this cabbage, homie, the more the merry
And shouts to my freedom fighters, power to the people
It ain't sweet in these streets, shit's sour like the diesel
That my man AD80 rolls up or Alex Dimez smokes up
With that bong vapor, while your money is short
We spending long paper, I got a calm nature
But on the low, I'm a Mad Man, Don Draper
And Wylie said that we're born for this game
Can't argue with that, give US! the fortune and fame
[FenaxiZ - Chorus]
Balance, perseverance, and discipline
Fools speak while the wise stay listening
I am the sole controller of the universe
First shall be last, the last shall be first
The mind's a weapon, the body a temple
Nothing's forever, death is eventual
Always follow the flow, never fight with it
And these are the ways to enlightenment
[Fenaxiz - Verse Three]
As sure as the sun shines and rain falls
Success breeds envy, that's never gonna change, y'all
Snakes are always quick to run up in your ear
So I believe half of what I see, none of what I hear
And these lames, they acting like groupies
Never used to say shit, now they gimme dap like they knew me
From before rap when I was paying my dues
Haters and fools couldn't spend a day in my shoes
And I'm grinding, tryna sign a couple sponsorships
To eat like a king and touch the seven continents
And every action has an equal and opposite consequence
So I approach the mic with common sense and confidence
And get in the lab with a pen and a pad
Check my levels, press record, then spit what I have
All in all, I'm simply me
Hip-hop without Fen, that's like TymE without an MPC
[FenaxiZ - Chorus]
Balance, perseverance, and discipline
Fools speak while the wise stay listening
I am the sole controller of the universe
First shall be last, the last shall be first
The mind's a weapon, the body a temple
Nothing's forever, death is eventual
Always follow the flow, never fight with it
And these are the ways to enlightenment
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6. |
Can't Stop Me
04:35
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[FenaxiZ - Intro]
Huh, yeah
Yo Twist, you cooked up a hot one right here, yo
Let's get it in on everybody who had something to say
Yeah, huh, can't stop us now
Yo Twist, where the drums at?
("Can't Stop Me, babe")
[FenaxiZ - Verse One]
Never would I thought that this rap thing could happen
Back when I was blasting Redman's "Time 4 Sum Aksion"
Beats, rhymes, and life became my true passion
Hip-hop spoke to me when no one else noticed me
So this right here's an anthem to the naysayers
What Biz Markie felt when he made Vapors
For y'all straight haters, I'm living my dream
That kid who never ever got picked for the team
That kid they used to call all types of names
Well guess what, my life's done changed
To the bullies and thugs who put my face in the ground
Success is so sweet, ain't you tasting it now
But it's all good, y'all didn't know better
We was young, it made me a go-getter
Now any obstacle, I straight up conquer
Whatever didn't kill me only made me stronger
[FenaxiZ - Chorus]
To the dream killers, to the scene stealers
Go ahead and hate ("Can't Stop Me, babe")
For you hypocrite teachers and fake-ass preachers
I gotta say ("Can't Stop Me, babe")
You back-stabbing snakes who would smile in my face
But really felt ways ("Can't Stop Me, babe")
Girls who broke my heart and those who wrote me off
It's too late, it's too late ("Can't Stop Me, babe")
[FenaxiZ - Verse Two]
Some days, ha, I can't help but pause and laugh
When kids recognize me and ask for my autograph
It was a time, I'd be shopping at this store
Security would block me from walking out the door
Talking about I stole, tryna search my bags
Get your damn hands off me, you don't wear no badge
Like squally who always pulls me over wack shit
Yea, I sped but it was the flow of traffic
Whatever, yo, do what you wanna do and ticket me
Can't slow me down, things are so different, see
It ain't like when I was taking the bus
To get to my 9-5, barely making enough
But now, I'm cashing cheques off rap hooks, no bad looks
Copping Macbooks, ordering steaks half-cooked
Surf-and-turf with the lobster and shrimps
I'm a big man now with the bosses and pimps
[FenaxiZ - Chorus]
To the dream killers, to the scene stealers
Go ahead and hate ("Can't Stop Me, babe")
For you hypocrite teachers and fake-ass preachers
I gotta say ("Can't Stop Me, babe")
You back-stabbing snakes who would smile in my face
But really felt ways ("Can't Stop Me, babe")
Girls who broke my heart and those who wrote me off
It's too late, it's too late ("Can't Stop Me, babe")
[FenaxiZ - Verse Three]
So what got me here: dedication and hustle
Arranging the puzzle while embracing the struggle
It's only natural coming up in the Screwface Capital
Developing a fuck-you attitude
I learned to laugh back whenever they laugh at you
And your words don't speak as loud as your actions do
So you have to prove yourself in the rapping booth
Or the next up-and-comer might take a stab at you
I got thick skin for cynics around
And you critics who doubt, it's like a circus of clowns
But I'm doing things most people only dream of
Catch me in a club, clean-cut with my drink up
Vibing and zoning, just alive in the moment
My partners in crime by my side and we rolling
I came a long way from where I was years ago
You can't stop me, nope, ayo, here we go
[FenaxiZ - Chorus x 2]
To the dream killers, to the scene stealers
Go ahead and hate ("Can't Stop Me, babe")
For you hypocrite teachers and fake-ass preachers
I gotta say ("Can't Stop Me, babe")
You back-stabbing snakes who would smile in my face
But really felt ways ("Can't Stop Me, babe")
Girls who broke my heart and those who wrote me off
It's too late, it's too late ("Can't Stop Me, babe")
[Sonny sample from "A Bronx Tale" - Queen skit]
Nobody cares
The only thing that matters
Is what's good for you and how you feel about eachother
Let me tell you something
When you're alone late at night in bed
Just you and her under the covers
That's all that matters, see
You gotta do what your heart tells you to do
Let me tell you something right now
You're only allowed three great women in your lifetime
They come along like the great fighters, once every ten years
Rocky Marciano, Sugar Ray Robinson, Joe Louis
Sometimes you get them all at once
Me, I had my three when I was 16
That happens, what do you wanna do
That's the way it goes, you know
Tell you right now, see this girl
Maybe this girl, she'll put wind in your sails
Maybe she's your first great one
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7. |
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[FenaxiZ - Intro]
Yeah, FenaxiZ
Amiracle production of course
August on the hook ("My queen" - August Rigo)
Yeah, this that vintage kinda love thing we got
Huh, yeah
[FenaxiZ - Verse One]
To my queen, your force of life's my source of light
When the world was against me, your support and advice
Kept me on a steady path, even if I already had
Every last penny stashed, without you, it's petty cash
Betty Shabazz to my Malcolm, skin tone of toasted almond
You understand that where I'm from
Love is so scarce plus rarely shown
So when emotion gets felt, it's barely known
I don't put my heart out or guard down, but you reached inside
Where all my secrets hide deep beneath my pride
And I feel alive from the small things that you do
Like curl your lips when you laugh 'cause I act the fool
You so natural and that's the truth
Respect my privacy, I never feel trapped with you
Secure and independent, you give me my space
And you ain't afraid of who's posting on my Facebook or MySpace
You let me breathe and you bring out the best in me
The main ingredient to my recipe
My boys say I'm going soft since the day that I let you in
But trust me girl, you make me harder than I've ever been
[August Rigo - Chorus]
My queen, I'm loving every little thing about you
My queen, I trust that I will never ever doubt you
My queen, I'm saying that I'm so glad that I found you
My queen, show me something that I've never seen
My queen, my queen
[FenaxiZ - Verse Two]
So how do you do it, be a woman in a male-dominated world
Dealing with mixed messages since your date of birth
Learning to hate your worth before heartbreak and hurt
Sets in from dudes tryna see who can play you first
For the worst, some relations curve and take a turn
Whatever problems we face, we gonna make it work
It's not often someone like you walks in
Style sweet while street, sexy sophisticated girl
A healthy combo of shyness and wildness
Got heavy convo, but still vibe in silence
That's how we click like remote controls
Lips like an open rose, perfect fit when I hold you close
Your touch renders me comatose, senses overdose
Strong connection like mobile phones
I don't suppose a future with you's out the question
More than a lover, you're nothing less than my best friend
You're my queen
[August Rigo - Chorus]
My queen, I'm loving every little thing about you
My queen, I trust that I will never ever doubt you
My queen, I'm saying that I'm so glad that I found you
My queen, show me something that I've never seen
My queen, my queen
[FenaxiZ - Verse Three]
Listen, this ain't no immature dumb thing, impersonal drunk fling
Destructive relationship where only one wins
Nah, this that grown love shared between two adults
Unconditional through the highs and through the lows
I met a lotta chicks doing shows
Fast-paced rat race on this rap stage, recording studios
Looking back, I can see that that lifestyle was wrong for me
'Cause fans are fickle and they love my songs, not me
That's why I'll never treat you secondary
All I Need like Meth and Mary 'til that day I'm dead and buried
Getting married when we ready 'cause you cared for this flip
So I ain't scared to admit that I'm prepared to commit
And pledge the rest of my years to safeguarding yours
Starting wars with anyone who tries harming yours
That said, I got you 'til my last breath
This kinda love, I've never had yet, my queen
[August Rigo - Chorus x 2]
My queen, I'm loving every little thing about you
My queen, I trust that I will never ever doubt you
My queen, I'm saying that I'm so glad that I found you
My queen, show me something that I've never seen
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8. |
Full Circle
03:54
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[FenaxiZ - Intro]
Huh, life, full circle, yo
From the cradle to the casket
Heh, yeah, follow me, huh
[FenaxiZ - Verse One]
Follow me, Audiobiography of the Strongest Link
My odyssey, it's odd to see how the smallest thing
Can guide your way, finally earned my college ring
Though I can say I learned more than what these scholars think
0-3, Dwayne died so I promised him
To focus my energies toward something positive
And I ain't saying he left for my benefit
But at the end of it, I've developed with the negative
The bigger picture or understanding of how dots connect
The fundamental law of cause and effect
Lots to regret, still in all, I've come of age
From the days of hunger pains when I was feeling small
In hindsight, was it plain luck or divine light
That got me through hardship, tomorrow's not charted
Answers to my questions only known by departed partners
So I've gotta finish what they've started
[FenaxiZ - Chorus x 2]
For the seeds, I hope you make it in these streets
Where all we know is hatred, stay motivated please
Rags, riches, and everything in-between
Kings and queens like the color purple, full circle
[FenaxiZ - Verse Two]
Had dreams to be a journalist, hopping the globe
Or an actor on the big screen, the star of the show
Somewhere, down the line, somehow on cold benches
Tryna impress known killers with blunts and Olde English
Funny thing is, years later, I've found my way
While them O.Gs I idolized vanished without a trace
Faint memories of rounds I've made
Because now it's strange, I see what matters most
Long as I'm breathing and my fam is close
I can laugh even if I don't understand the jokes
That this life can tell through all sorts of situations
I went places, met faces, and accepted changes
Blessed stages both large and small, numbers deep
Yonge & Dundas Street in the summer's heat
Just to sell my tapes, never minding jealous snakes
'Cause second you slow down, the grind accelerates
[FenaxiZ - Chorus x 2]
For the seeds, I hope you make it in these streets
Where all we know is hatred, stay motivated please
Rags, riches, and everything in-between
Kings and queens like the color purple, full circle
[FenaxiZ - Verse Three]
So many stories, but only a few with a good ending
You can take a thug out the hood, still the hood's in him
Wild card with a foul heart, free or behind bars
Crimes large, die-hard, but his mind's sharp
Inside scarred, first chance, demanding respect
Big man steps, meanwhile he's planning the next
Since dropping out in tenth grade, mentality was to get paid
Brain keeping track of every cent made
Taught self-hate from textbooks and corrupt cops
Chasing the buck, sooner or later, the buck stops
In front of the court, bail be coming up short
Friends don't visit, baby moms ain't want him no more
Another place, maybe different time, he woulda crossed
That finish line instead of dwelling in a prison crying
So my young gangstas, never settle for less
In this life of raw footage without special effects
[FenaxiZ - Chorus x 2]
For the seeds, I hope you make it in these streets
Where all we know is hatred, stay motivated please
Rags, riches, and everything in-between
Kings and queens like the color purple, full circle
[FenaxiZ - Outro]
Yeah, full circle, y'all
And that's the life we lead
Ha, gots to keep on pushing, no matter what y'all
Huh
|
||||
9. |
||||
[Team US! - Intro]
[Wylie]
Wylie
[Alex Dimez]
Twenty Dimez
[FenaxiZ]
Fenaxiz
Vintage baby
[FenaxiZ - Verse One]
Yes yes y'all, introducing the team
It's just US!, we pursuing our dream, no doubt
And we get it in, no homo, US! taking a loss
That's a no no no, you don't know yo
We hold eachother down, but still roll solo
I'm out to get dough, can't flow pro-bono
And I'm vintage like an old photo, picture that
Been awhile since I blessed y'all, the kid is back
And I handle mines, how I plan my rhymes
Military approach, I advance the lines
Yo we going so hard at every chance we find
Can't nothing stop us except the hands of time
And even that won't tarnish our legacy
Fen, Wylie, and Dimez, we partners forever, see
If you start it, we end it, G
We taking over, it's in the stars yo, it's meant to be
[Chorus]
[FenaxiZ]
Without trust, there's no love
Without love, there's no trust
[All]
All we got is US!
[Alex Dimez]
When it's all said and done
And the smoke clears
We'll be right here
[All]
'Cause the world belongs to US!
[Wylie]
Hard work pays off
Never take a day off
All we do is stay strong
[All]
There's them and then there's US!
All we got is US! All we got is US!
All we got is US! All we got is US!
[Alex Dimez]
It ain't easy being a dreamchaser
Everytime I get a chick, I always end up having to replace her
She take a small space and turn it to a smaller space
Now she's tripping 'cause she's all up in my face
I'm just tryna add some more friends to Myspace
So I can try to get a little more ends for my tapes
Take her out and she order four or five plates
I hate waiting, most people is always late
20dimez and you still doing the harlem shake
Dope boys, most cook, but I'd rather bake
Take your goods in a second, but I'd rather make
Dope tracks for my peers, watch me demonstrate
Hard work over years, watch me levitate
Dangerous like Denton Dailey, niggas heavyweights
I just spit, I don't choose my style
Keep your two guns up 'cause I'm 2pac wild
[Chorus]
[Wylie]
Ayo, we brighter than a pair of white Uptowns homie
I'm going long, every play touchdown homie
Damn right, just US! and nobody else
There's them and then there's US! nobody else
We been through pain in this game like nobody else
We going around the world tonight, nobody else
I ain't the best, but I'm real with myself
It ain't cocky if it's true, that's why I'm feeling myself
Gucci bag, Louis Belt, yeah I got the ill fits
Just like my raps do, my swagger gotta kill shit
I'ma be around awhile, you gotta deal with
My attitude's so cold, I can't feel shit
I don't care if you say Wylie ain't a real kid
All I know is you can say Wylie keep a real chick
Can't care about y'all, say it to my face bitches
Just like my nigga Fen album, my face vintage
[Chorus x 2]
|
||||
10. |
||||
[Filipino speech sample - Intro]
One of the reasons I think
That the Philippines is in such a bad state today
Is simply because we do not know our history
So the history textbooks are usually wrong
And written by non-historians
And the biggest problem of all is
Philippine historian does not have the sources to write history
The complete history of the Philippines in Manila
[FenaxiZ]
I'm The White Man's Burden, a Fucking Little Island Person
Who am I, the truth's inside so I'm searching
But after too many years of learning his version
Of our story, it's hard for me to be certain
All I know is Spain owes us at least twenty mil
For how much they sold us, we ain't seen a penny still
For fallen soldiers, I let the Henny spill
But my bottle's empty, 'cause it's been plenty killed
From the slaughters of Balangiga under the orders
Of Jacob Smith to off husbands, wives, sons, and daughters
Decimation: 10% of our population
To the second World War with Japanese invasion
Or further back, Legaspi set the murder trap
Blew our brains out, that's why today you never heard of that
Instead we watch GMA, ashamed of darker pigment
So there'll no quarter given when I start resisting
I got a right to be, I got a fight to lead
Why stay in the shadows when I feel this light in me
But some of my own people wanna douse the flame
It's a mindstate I doubt will change overnight
For years, we been waiting for nothing but acceptance
Police serve themselves, who the hell's gonna protect us
That same pacifism passes to children
So they grow without guidance and say there's Spanish in them
To various degrees, not knowing Claveria's decree
'Cause back home they studying an English language system
And that's one disadvantage given that the master's hidden
How do we see our true selves when we've got damaged vision
From the get-go, in the ghetto we duel with eachother
And in school we discover it ain't cool to be colored
Teachers fail you, on the outside, they quick to jail you
Since you fit a description, but you know that's just fiction
For real, we support fam so we're marginalized
Stuck in a factory where it's harder to rise
No time to pick up pencils or get credentials
Can't hit the books, much less hit your potential
And I ain't tryna make jokes or find scapegoats
There's a lot about us that I just hate most
From chismis to the drug abusers to keeping up with the Joneses
When we can't even keep up with the Cruzes
Half our people act deceitful and practice evil
Easily damaged egos and we pack casinos
"The Lord will provide" is what we tell ourselves
Truth is, God only helps those who help themselves
Damn, it's like we can't learn to stand firm
Conditioned to open doors like "Ma'am, Sir"
You see, we drink too much, but we don't think enough
Afraid to rock the boat, because it might sink and bust
Plus it's ridiculous what our own leaders did to us
In debt with the IMF so they paid it back by shipping us
OFWs and Modern Heroes
As commodities under Labour Export Policies
Human trafficking at its finest;
Exploitation's exploitation regardless of the ways you define us
How is it a highly educated people
Get deskilled and kept from the structures we built
Denied free will in the 70's
My folks ran from martial law so I plan the art of war
I refuse to serve on the frontlines half-hearted
You don't even know how filthy our backyard is
All you hear is complete lies and half-truths
Got nothing to do with what goes on in classrooms
What's it gonna take, another shot or stabbed youth
To understand that we gotta go back to the grass roots
It's no wonder why we see ourselves as lesser
The only country to be named after its oppressor
Ironic that we used to use salt as currency
'Cause back then was so sweeter than where we are currently
It's a state of emergency, total invasion
Of our basic rights in the name of globalization
While Nestle produces a high turnover ratio
We export their goods, but don't see the bottom peso
Too caught up with Western product to support our own businesses
So all we got left are remittances
But at what cost, how many more families must get separated
For y'all to settle payment
Over the debt you made, shit, dear President
How much more can you get away with, even sex is traded
With Comfort Women providing R&R
To the United States military base army guards
Rest in peace to LCPs, mail-order brides
And foreign wives who face domestic abuse and shorter lives
Abroad, all for the sake of opportunity
So a child she ain't seen in years can have food to eat
I'm sorry, yo, but I just can't accept that
Our nation's sinking while we face extinction
So what's the answer, what's the future hold
Truth be told, I don't know, but I just want the youth to grow
Proud of their heritage whether light-skinned
Mestizo or they got the brownest appearances
I mean, I was lost 'til I found my inheritance
Now I know my worth, I control the world
And this rap ain't even scratching the surface
Of our collective experience, my peoples
We gotta match our path with our purpose
And after all this, sino tayo?
Ewang ko, pero, Pilipino ako
|
||||
11. |
Goodbye To The Game
03:41
|
|||
[FenaxiZ - Intro]
Huh, yeah, ayo Tyme
I been at this for a minute
Yo, this is like
This my last try at this game you know
'Cause yo, if this music thing doesn't work out
Ha, yo, I don't even know what I'ma do
So yo, this my fuck-you letter to the industry
Let's go
[FenaxiZ - Verse One]
Ain't no business like show business, right, it's what they say
But ain't no business in show business, no fucking way
I'm so finished with this game that sold billions
'Cause I put my soul in this plus I flow vicious
But I still can't blow, shit is depressing as fuck
I question my luck with every step on this road to riches
Broken spirits, it's all smoke and mirrors
When you pose for pictures to uphold an image
To the young cats coming up with no experience
I hope you hear this, quote my lyrics, and know this business
Is designed to bring you up then bring you down crashing
You only hot as your last hit and that's it
And I'm sorry if I come across jaded and hollow
But this choice of profession's like playing the lotto
When you hail from Toronto, never dated a model
Fucking rent's due today, but I'll pay it tomorrow 'cause
[FenaxiZ - Chorus]
I'm flying away
Goodbye to the game
Sick of trying in vain
Goodbye to the game
Done hiding the pain
Goodbye to the game
I'm finally saying
Goodbye to the game
No more lying awake
Goodbye to the game
The dream's dying today
Goodbye to the game
'Cause it's time for a change
Goodbye to the game
I'm finally saying
Goodbye to the game
[FenaxiZ - Verse Two]
Ayo, my love for Hip-Hop was a one-sided relationship
I Used To Love H.E.R 'til I found out she was faking it
And I'm aware I'm not an artist you can market
But part of me thought at the least I'd hit my target
You rookies remind me of me when I first started
Quick to start a cipher and be the best to spark it
Hungry for any chance to catch some ears
And outlast their peers, but most will face fast careers
And not to mention fans got short attention spans
Even legends can't survive without pension plans
Or maybe I ain't as hot as I think
And I should stop before I waste another drop of this ink
I mean, I could lock myself inside of the lab
Hold my anger, but I'd explode from fighting it back
Understand, I'm for real with what I write in this pad
But I wanna press reset on this life that I've had 'cause
[FenaxiZ - Chorus]
I'm flying away
Goodbye to the game
Sick of trying in vain
Goodbye to the game
Done hiding the pain
Goodbye to the game
I'm finally saying
Goodbye to the game
No more lying awake
Goodbye to the game
The dream's dying today
Goodbye to the game
'Cause it's time for a change
Goodbye to the game
I'm finally saying
Goodbye to the game
[FenaxiZ - Verse Three]
Since I came out and dropped this album, a lot happened
That I'm not too proud of so let's talk about it
Before this music business, I never knew the difference
Between my truest friendships and the smooth pretenders
I wanna call it quits, it's too soon to finish
When time is running out, I need a few more minutes
But minutes turn to days, days to months, months to years
Been meeting lots of heads, mostly fake, some sincere
And not one blowing, we're all drops in the ocean
More supply than demand with no proper promotion
Of that real shit, even that's played out
Fuck the real shit, I want the fast way out
Because you gotta believe me, this job isn't easy
I came in this game and I thought it could feed me
What you know about late nights networking
Head hurting, feeling like death's certain
Hoping the next person shows love and support
For seven years, my foot's been stuck in the door
Mixtapes to interviews, I've done it before
And what I got to show for it, nothing at all
So goodbye to this game, I'm flying away
Sick of trying in vain, somedays crying ashamed
That I was stupid to expect I could make a living
In an industry that's known for taking more than giving
|
||||
12. |
Empty Bottle
04:21
|
|||
[FenaxiZ - Intro]
Man, huh, fuck it
I just don't know sometimes
Shit
[FenaxiZ - Verse One]
Sitting alone, 80 proof hitting my dome
Double shots, guzzle scotch, start to get in a zone
To reminiscing on everything I wish I did different
So many wrong decisions and I'm falling from grace
Pulse racing, hands shaking, alcohol in my waist
God help who gets all in my face, I ain't playing
'Cause it's like my whole life is a house of cards tumbling down
Fuck friends, 'cause ain't none of 'em found
'Til they want something then they start coming around
I'm stumbling now, but fuck it, I need another swig
Lost many precious years from the drugs I did
Bitches playing head games, ayo, love ain't shit
'Pac I feel you, crucified for being a real dude
But sometimes, in order to keep moving
You gotta conceal truth, too many bad habits I still do
But my weakness is power, the street is ours
And I'm good regardless shit's sweet or sour
Though some days I wanna jump off the CN Tower
I hate this shit, imagine how this world would be
If I ain't exist, I gotta take a piss
[FenaxiZ - Chorus]
Back's against the wall, staring at the ceiling twist
Feeling so small, the same time, I'm feeling big
But empty like this bottle, 'cause I've been killing it
Lifting it to my lips, but shit, I just spilled a bit
Way too many motherfuckers that I've been dealing with
Tried to play hero, but they think I'm on some villain shit
I'm a grown ass man, but I still ain't shit
Just me and this empty bottle, this empty bottle
[FenaxiZ - Verse Two]
So some wish me failure, it's a sign of success
But as long as the real recognize real
I pay no mind to the rest and just watch for mine only
I'm lonely, Johnny Walker's my prime homie
And I'm half through it, asking myself
If I can eat off this rap music, damn, I can't do it
Breathing slow, ha, I need to know do folks rate me
That's why I been keeping low lately
Ducking my people, man, don't get it twisted
Fam, I ain't fucking with evil, just doing me, you see
Fridge is bare so I'm drinking on an empty stomach
But all I need is some Henny, fuck it, already drunk, shit
Can't concentrate, too many of my partners have gone away
Ghosts of the past, toasting my glass
I'm dizzy, hoping it pass, can't walk or think straight
This the last time and I know I said that last time
[FenaxiZ - Chorus]
Back's against the wall, staring at the ceiling twist
Feeling so small, the same time, I'm feeling big
But empty like this bottle, 'cause I've been killing it
Lifting it to my lips, but shit, I just spilled a bit
Way too many motherfuckers that I've been dealing with
Tried to play hero, but they think I'm on some villain shit
I'm a grown ass man, but I still ain't shit
Just me and this empty bottle, this empty bottle
[FenaxiZ - Verse Three]
Now as far as I know, I ain't got shit
Fuck all that I own, who the hell keeps calling my phone
Put it on silent, no way to get at me
At this moment, every single one of y'all is my opponent
Where am I going, I don't know
But I feel hollow inside, gotta swallow my pride
And clear my head, ignore all that he say, she say
And keep faith, true say, I'm fearing death
Since deep within I know that I gotta pay
On that day I reach my end, huh, nothing's sweet as sin
But I done good too, yo, it's all coming back to me
Recognizing my whole life had to be
And it's worth living, heavy head, blurred vision
To put it in perspective, I coulda been in worse positions
Plus I'm stronger when cornered, it's up to me
And just me to get my life in order, who else will
I ain't done the bottle, but I'ma let the rest spill
And just chill then crash on my bed, yo
Gonna feel like shit in the morning, yo
I'm smashed in the head, that's all, fuck it
[FenaxiZ - Chorus x 2]
Back's against the wall, staring at the ceiling twist
Feeling so small, the same time, I'm feeling big
But empty like this bottle, 'cause I've been killing it
Lifting it to my lips, but shit, I just spilled a bit
Way too many motherfuckers that I've been dealing with
Tried to play hero, but they think I'm on some villain shit
I'm a grown ass man, but I still ain't shit
Just me and this empty bottle, this empty bottle
[FenaxiZ - Outro]
Hahaha, aw shit
Fuck, can't do this anymore
I swear yo, I swear to God
Fuck, ha
|
||||
13. |
Dear Life
05:59
|
|||
[FenaxiZ - Intro]
Huh, yeah, I'd like to dedicate this song
To the memory of everyone I've loved
Who's passed on before me
Yeah, I keep y'all in my heart forever
I got your back no matter what
[FenaxiZ - Verse One]
Dear Life, huh, it was good while it lasted
As I look at the past, shit, I took you for granted
So before I'm put in this casket, I gotta make peace
In search of God like when Muslims face East
At least, the best part about death, y'all
Every end's a fresh start so whatever's next
Let's not mourn or carry on with sad faces
Can't escape this or backspace this so have faith
It's all planned; cotdamn, I'm in God's hands
Grateful I found myself in this lost land
This life, some take it, 'cause they can't take it
With rose-colored glasses faded, they too jaded
Flesh decays; but not consequences of yesterdays
That's why I try to touch lives when I bless the stage
So when my essence fades with the winds of time
Here's a message placed to my fam and friends: I'm fine
As long as I had fewer failures than successes
A man of good intentions, I was taught all my lessons
The hard way: never ignore what your heart say
Love and laugh, ha ha, partay and parle
Can't keep hate in your heart so forgive, but don't forget
Play your part, make your mark, there's no living with regrets
Humble yourself and understand the bigger you grow
More you learn the more you find just how little you know
When you're younger, you never think one day an icy grip
Will pull you under, but any second can be your number
So ask yourself: are you prepared to go
Would you be ready to leave when your chest is heavy to breathe
Lights dim and the noise stops, your voice drops
Joints lock, trust, nobody stays, there's no choice, y'all
But in the meantime, while you're still here
Work hard, play harder 'til the end and don't feel fear
[FenaxiZ - Chorus]
I never asked to come, but dear life, don't let me go
For years, I've wondered what's behind this door
And now that I've arrived, I don't wanna turn the knob
I've never believed, but I'm begging with you God
Don't take me yet, it's still alot that I need to do
Is this the end, where my road's been leading to?
"Close your eyes, my son, I'll take away all the pain
Say goodbye to the sun, say goodbye to the rain"
[FenaxiZ - Verse Two]
Dear Life, huh, I never asked to be involved with you
Don't take it personal, but yo, there's so much wrong with you
All these years, you'd only offer me a somber view
Born in solitude so I do what I gotta do
I accept I can't change what's been manifest
Like I suspect that there's no such thing as accidents
In retrospect, pain pushed pursuits of happiness
So I expect that there must be something after this
Is Hell a mindstate or is it metaphysical
Is Heaven a place or does it rep the pinnacle
Of achievement or could it be Heaven and Hell's identical
Two sides of the same coin or am I being cynical
Everything under the sun has its time and place
So in my final days, my mistakes are mine to face
Through this chaos, I'm tryna change and find my faith
But looking at the bigger picture, all I see are lines and shapes
Why do my loved ones have to be taken
And tell me where does a dream go when you awaken
All I ask for is a sign, anything, just a statement
But talking to God, it's like a one-way conversation
So I tell myself perfection's a process
Whenever I dwell on all I've yet to accomplish
Don't wanna waste away behind a desk in an office
'Cause death comes, that ain't a threat, it's a promise
That ain't a threat, it's a promise
Death comes, that ain't a threat, it's a promise
Death comes, that ain't a threat, it's a promise
Death comes, death comes
[FenaxiZ - Chorus]
I never asked to come, but dear life, don't let me go
For years, I've wondered what's behind this door
And now that I've arrived, I don't wanna turn the knob
I've never believed, but I'm begging with you God
Don't take me yet, it's still alot that I need to do
Is this the end, where my road's been leading to?
"Close your eyes, my son, I'll take away all the pain
Say goodbye to the sun, say goodbye to the rain"
[FenaxiZ - Outro]
Rest in peace to the homie Dwayne Foster
Aka D-E-K, Dek, yo your spirit lives on homie
Yeah, a big shout out goes to the homie Ralph Acepcion
Aka RapRap from Dabarkadas
Ayo, no lie, I literally just found out you passed away
Like two or three hours before I hit the studio to do this song
Yeah, rest in peace and one love to my sister Rachel Matta
Rest in peace to my lola, lola mommy
I still remember the last time I ever hugged you
Ayo, for everybody, this song is for y'all
I'ma see you one day
|
||||
14. |
The Launch (bonus track)
04:59
|
|||
[FenaxiZ - Intro]
Huh, yeah, FenaxiZ
Whattup y'all?
Vintage, July 2012
[FenaxiZ - Verse One]
I'd like to make a toast dedicated to the most celebrated
Referring to myself, I suppose, well, I made it
Must be doing something right, 'cause foes hella hating
And I couldn't be more higher if I stood on my toes elevated
On the nose of a 747 jet
Flow heaven-sent, tryna go where I never went
No more stress, still, I'm working hard
On my solo flex like I don't know rest
Run 6 in the morning in my polo sweats
Then bounce to the office, flip my rolodex
Make calls, approve proofs off photosets
Tryna go past my limits, I won't go less
Yo, you think I'm hungry, my fam is famished
I got meetings to make, I got plans to manage
'Cause I gotta get my brand established, money talks
And I'll do anything to understand its language
It's only right I tell the world
All that I own is well-deserved, in fact, it owes me twice
For each and every lonely night slaving away
Paving a way, despite no love from my first open mics
Fuck it, I remember hiding my tears
From the public, snakes planted lies in my ears
They can suck dick, tryna divide me and my peers
I stay above it, that's how I survived all them years
When reality collides with your fears, you gotta keep moving
I speak through this deep-rooted street music
Me and my squad, no one does it like we do it
I'm Talib Kweli with a touch of G-Unit
Who else you know has got that subtle swag
While others cats is full of air and pop like bubblewrap
Chivas Regal, I guzzle that, you got a couple stacks
In a duffel bag, I'll hustle half and double that
My fans bop their heads 'til their neck muscles snap
On rainy days, I watch puddles splash
While my lips hold a Cristo, I puff puff and laugh
Same dudes screaming "Stop Snitching" be first to runteldat
On another note, I had a discussion with
An old friend who said he's lived life and seen too much of it
To have faith in God, ain't it odd
That's the same exact reason why every night I pray to God
Too many demons possessed me, voice in the back of my head
Screaming "Let me protect thee"
Prisoner of War, P.O.W
'Til I told myself, "There can be no other you
Respect your place on the planet, don't take it for granted
Before it gets too late to understand it
You see, everybody wants to be someone else
But a boy becomes a man when he becomes himself"
Like that, the fog cleared, I'm seeing the sun
In a new light, I know freedom will come
But for now, I gotta fight as long as it takes
To correct all my wrongs and mistakes before I'm gone to my grave
When I sleep, I'm not promised to wake
So I make sure I'm good with what I accomplished today
And I can care less about haters and skeptics
After gaining that knowledge of self
I changed my perspective, it's feuds other than Lakers and Celtics
So I wanna reach those who relate to my message
When I write with my paper and pencil
But fuck it, if we rally together, we can carry eachother
I Serve The People and this includes all my sisters
Who work illegal, everyday, observing evil
That's crystal clear, what I spit's sincere
Even though it goes in and out politicians' ears
So listen here, you're either running when you're scared
Or you grow as a person confronting what you fear
So when revolution comes, raise your gun up in the air
Believe half of what you see and none of what you hear
That's words to live by from one of my toughest homies
And you can find me in the hood saying what's up to OGs
They know I'm a PWA
A Pilipino With Attitude so Puck The Folice
No love for John McClanes, Columbos, Jim Gordons
When I'm driving, people think I'm Tim Hortons
'Cause I roll up with rims winning
And even if you took it all away, cotdamn, I'm still driven
Grinding, rhyming, climbing, shining
They forgot about Fen, guess I gotta remind them
I am one of the best who did it
Nowadays, I'm tryna get an extra digit on my credit limit
Dimez, you got a blunt, spark it and send it
And y'all can check my plates, the car isn't rented
All-stars, US! goes hard for the pennant
And any opposing teams can start, but we'll end it
I'm the greatest poet Vic. Park has invented
Lines killing 'em slow, carcinogenic
Mind of a general, heart of a lieutenant
Hold up, you know what, let's switch the flow up
This the first time I've truly applied myself
So focused, no doubts inside myself
And mom, I know you worry, but this music thing
I gotta try myself, just by myself
And I'll do whatever it takes to reach the top
After all these years, I'm at peace with God
After all these years, I'm at peace with God
After all these years, I'm at peace with God
[FenaxiZ - Outro]
Yeah, that's how I'm doing it from now on, yo
So focused, eyes on the prize
FenaxiZ.com, check it out
Yeah, shouts to my US! crew
If you don't know who we are
You definitely gonna find out soon enough
We got Alex Dimez dropping his Cloud Dimez project
Young Wylie with the Cocky Season EP
Huh, Arch Duke coming soon with The Rest Will Follow album
Yo, Nyce Touch, Split Personality on the way
Yeah, Taylor Made got that Underdog part 3
Yo, y'all better watch out for that
Ay, King Jus, I know you been in the lab
Working on the King Alex EP, huh
Prophet-Z doing it in New York with The Viral Mixtape part 2
Haha, yo, and of course, myself
FenaxiZ with the Vintage album
July 2012, mark it on your calendars, yo
Peace
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15. |
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[FenaxiZ - Intro]
("Makibaka! Wag matakot!" in background)
Yeah, UKPC, the Filipino-Canadian Youth Alliance presents Power
Huh, yo, it's time to education, mobilize, and organize our peoples
[FenaxiZ - Verse One]
Raised rebellious, me and my crew of crazy fellas
Was just thrown into a world where they hate and fear us
They wanna cage and jail us so from jump we're labelled failures
By racist elders who hide a history they're afraid to tell us
They ain't want us to know about our heritage
But how can you deny truth when there it is?
I learned the world of today's the next generation's inheritance
And one people's rebels are another country's terrorists
So no question's asked, no answer's given
Went from a narrow view to open eyes with panoramic vision
So now I see things clear, I understand my mission's
To advance resistance in this land we live in
And all the struggles musta been preparing me for solidarity
Life was a bitch 'til I proposed it to marry me
Malcolm stressed justice by any necessary means
So fuck this, I'ma douse this system with kerosene
And incite the masses to strike the matches
Go in and out before they know it like when lightning flashes
Gaining knowledge of self was like a rite of passage
'Fore I stepped back to ask, why don't we fight our masters?
Why we keep losing? Why do cops wanna bother us?
Why don't we speak out? Why we stay anonymous?
These are the questions we gotta get to the bottom of
Whatever we're doing, goddamn, yo, it's not enough
[Dagamuffin - Verse Two]
It's not enough to just sit in the cut
While my peoples standing up not giving a fuck
Neo-colonial globalization
My class be the ones that make the whole thing run
Blood, sweat, and labor; no time to cry
Save the damn tears for later, time always mean
How long we gotta wait for all the hard work to pay off
So we can make a home in a place I know
That I can lay my dome, allow roots to grow
A foundation, organize and counterspinning
The conditions we facing, 99 Occupying
For change and time's wasting, we creating
A new narrative, we embrace it
We will stop the temporariness and exploitation
They will not dictate and manage our community's fate
We writers of our own history and turning the pages
Goodness gracious, me oh my
These Filipinos got nerve, yeah, you know we fly
These Filipinos, they swerve, and you know we ride
These Filipinos, they serving the people, right
So let's get it even if you don't get it
I'll explain how we did it when we get to the finish line
Never let a Conservative critic diminish mine
So grab your flag, your phone, and let's go homie, I think it's time
[Kris Blade - Verse Three]
Ayo, I'm more than just a caregiver, more than just a laborer
More than just an employee making a hamburger
More than just a nurse or a thief snatching a purse
More than just a dead gangsta riding in a black hearse
More than just a mail-order bride for the sex-trade
Sell my mind, body, and soul, just to get paid
More than just a stereotypical image you ridicule
More than just bad man, it's looking real critical
More than just a criminal, more than just a crook
More than just a corny plotline in a bad book
Stop reading, well, muhfucka, stop cheating
I'll stop speaking when you listen at the staff meeting
My people over-worked, over-encumbered
It's us against them and we looking outnumbered yo
That's why we gotta get together, gotta organize
Read up on the issues, politic, we gotta mobilize
We gotta flip the script, the situation
Get up, go out, and get something, fuck patience
We got the capability to run facility
Got the right agility for change, is you feeling me
We about to turn this table upside-down
And we ain't waiting for tomorrow, we gonna start right now
Yo, from T-Dot to Vancity and the whole world
It's time to get it, we ain't stopping 'til it's over, rise up
[Kim Possible - Verse Four]
Rise up, root down, rise up again
Yeah, we're resurrecting what they said was over and dead
We're in a war against forgetting the roots of this tree
Until we reclaim herstory, we'll never be free
And my vocabulary's like your worst adversary
But on the contrary, I ain't your bride to marry
Filipinas stand up and let them know who you be
Don't apologize for the words that you speak
And I am proud of those that came before me
So with lyrical flow I'll spread this message like a seed
I won't go quietly, I'll take the lead
It's an act of resistance to be all of me
'Cause too often we're exoticized, stolen identities
Descendents of a lost tribe, take back your victory
Call this equality, you ain't looking closely
My people may be smiling, but this system's killing us softly
So rocksteady, this is motion, not pain
Roar, curse the ceiling, 'cause there will be change
Said where is the love when she's swept under the rug
Banking off her labour while they call her children thugs
Nah, smell the sweat, yeah, it's the working class
Pops resorts to cleaning while my mother keeps wiping their ass
But check the script, say word, we're the writers now
We'll tell our own story and then we'll take a bow
[Outro]
The youth united will never be defeated
The women united will never be defeated
The workers united will never be defeated
The people united will never be defeated
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FenaxiZ Toronto, Ontario
Toronto rapper FenaxiZ has built a reputation in the underground as an introspective yet observant poet and torchbearer of old school Hip-Hop. Fans and peers alike recognize him for the sincerity and soul he bleeds onto tracks and the subtle bravado he carries himself with. Influenced by the likes of Nas and Common, FenaxiZ aims to affect lives with his art and spread his message across the world. ... more
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