Meaning of "Rap Promoter" by A Tribe Called Quest

The lyrics of "Rap Promoter" convey a sense of frustration and disappointment with certain promoters in the music industry. The artists, particularly Q-Tip, express their annoyance with promoters who do not fulfill their responsibilities. The song highlights the importance of a promoter's role in ensuring the success of a show and how the artist's trust in them is crucial.

Q-Tip's lyrics reveal his strong belief in his talent and worth as an artist. He acknowledges his rising success by mentioning his upcoming possessions, such as a car and a home. However, Q-Tip also emphasizes his loyalty and care for his family, stating that he will be by his mother's side if she's sick. This demonstrates his grounded nature and the values that are important to him.

The song also addresses the lack of trust between artists and certain promoters. Q-Tip warns the promoters to not come to him with a subpar show or to try to deceive him. He uses strong language, such as "wack" and "ass," to express his disdain for ineffective promoters. Additionally, Q-Tip insists on being paid his share promptly by urging the promoters to go to the bank and get his cash.

Furthermore, the lyrics touch on the artist's rider, which is a document outlining the things an artist requires in their dressing room or during performances. The mention of wanting chicken, orange juice, and a specific brand of potato shows the personal preferences of the artist. Q-Tip emphasizes that he is not pushy but expects his needs to be met, indicating that he values professionalism and attention to detail.

Ultimately, "Rap Promoter" is a critique of the promoters who fail to live up to their responsibilities, contrasting them with the artists' expectations and professionalism. It highlights the importance of trust and reliability in the music industry and serves as a reminder for promoters to fulfill their commitments.