Hakeem Prime - Consequences (Feat. Zero)
Hip-hop has always been more than just a genre of music; it's a powerful vehicle for social commentary, a voice for the voiceless, and a mirror reflecting the struggles and triumphs of marginalized communities. The song "Consequences," featuring Zero Boise, Idaho native (also known as Zeto) and popular artist Hakeem Prime, exemplifies these qualities, making it a poignant piece in the contemporary hip-hop landscape. this song is dedicatied to many african americans that have gone through trajeties
African Americans Who Died by Police Violence
Trayvon Martin's tragic death in 2012 sparked a movement and brought attention to the issue of police violence against African Americans. Since then, there have been several other notable cases of African Americans who died due to police violence. Here are some of the individuals who have become symbols of this ongoing issue:- Trayvon Martin:
- Trayvon Benjamin Martin, a 17-year-old African-American, was fatally shot in Sanford, Florida, by George Zimmerman, a 28-year-old Hispanic American, on February 26, 2012
- George Floyd:
- George Floyd's death on May 25, 2020, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, sparked widespread protests and renewed attention to police violence against African Americans. Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, was convicted of Floyd's murder.
- Breonna Taylor:
- Breonna Taylor, a 26-year-old African American, was fatally shot by police in her apartment in Louisville, Kentucky, on March 13, 2020, during a botched raid.
- Michael Brown Jr.:
- Michael Brown Jr., an unarmed Black teenager, was shot and killed by a White police officer in Ferguson, Missouri, on August 9, 2014, leading to massive protests and highlighting discriminatory practices
- Eric Garner:
- Eric Garner, a 43-year-old African American, died in New York City on July 17, 2014, after being placed in a chokehold by a police officer during an arrest for selling untaxed cigarettes.
Verse One: Zero's Reflection on Struggle and Resilience
Zero's verse opens with evocative imagery, setting a somber yet determined tone. Lines like "As night shifts to dark / Finger flick then spark" juxtapose the quiet of the night with the spark of a blunt, symbolizing the ignition of thoughts and emotions. His words, "Thunder bolts and charge / Some of them left scars," speak to the lasting impact of life’s challenges and battles, particularly within communities frequently subjected to systemic oppression.
The metaphor of embarking on a journey to the stars ("Stake board into mars / And lie down in the stars") conveys a sense of escapism and hope. Zero's plea, "I just pray that you light my way / It’s okay we been here before," underscores a resilience ingrained in communities that have repeatedly faced adversity.
Zero's critique of law enforcement ("Creating vendettas / Blood feuds with dirty cops") directly addresses the systemic issues of police brutality and corruption. His callout, "No one man should have all that power," echoes sentiments popularized by hip-hop luminaries like Kanye West, emphasizing the dangers of unchecked authority.
Chorus: A Rallying Cry for Justice
Hakeem Prime's chorus is a powerful rallying cry against racial injustice and systemic inequality. The lines "Even if we drop the race card / We won’t be silenced" highlight a refusal to be dismissed or ignored, regardless of attempts to undermine their grievances. The repeated frustration in "I’m so damn tired of the bull shit / I’m so sick and tired of the bull shit" captures a collective exhaustion felt by many who are subjected to constant discrimination and violence.
The plea for "real CONSEQUENCES" for those responsible for perpetuating violence against the community, particularly against fathers and families, underscores a demand for accountability and change.
Verse Two: Hakeem Prime’s Vision of Empowerment and Accountability
Hakeem Prime’s verse continues the theme of empowerment and resistance. His references to "Billy Carson" and "Jedi" allude to figures of knowledge and power, reinforcing the idea of rising above oppression through wisdom and strength. The line "This that Human nature no GPT" contrasts innate human qualities with artificial constructs, perhaps critiquing superficial or insincere approaches to solving deep-rooted issues.
His disdain for abusive power is clear in "Put my face through the stereo / Bet without the badge he a scary hoe," pointing out the cowardice often hidden behind institutional authority. The rhetorical question "Does the power make you weak?" challenges the integrity of those who misuse their power.
Hakeem’s call to "expunge those that hate our feets" and "Protect the ones who preach" underscores the need for solidarity and protection within the community. His acknowledgment that "Some of these boys are anomalies / So let them be" celebrates the unique contributions of individuals who defy societal expectations.
The Broader Impact on Hip-Hop
"Consequences" is a testament to hip-hop's enduring role as a platform for social justice and commentary. Zero and Hakeem Prime use their verses to not only reflect their personal experiences but also to address broader societal issues that resonate with many. The song fits into a long tradition of hip-hop tracks that challenge the status quo, from Public Enemy’s "Fight the Power" to Kendrick Lamar’s "Alright."
By blending personal narrative with universal themes of struggle, resilience, and the quest for justice, "Consequences" continues hip-hop’s legacy of giving voice to the marginalized. It serves as a reminder that hip-hop is not just about music; it's about storytelling, advocacy, and the relentless pursuit of truth and equity.