Meaning of "I'm Diggin' You (Like An Old Soul Record)" by Meshell Ndegeocello
The lyrics of "I'm Diggin' You (Like An Old Soul Record)" evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing for a bygone era when black consciousness and love brought people together. The reference to sitting back and listening to an 8-track, a technology from the past, serves as a metaphor for embracing the past and appreciating the soulful music that defined it. This nostalgia is further emphasized by the mention of a time when "everyone was black and conscious," and when "love brought us all together." It recalls a time when people were united and working towards a common goal. The image of "blue lights in the basement" represents a safe and intimate space where individuals could gather freely and cultivate positive vibes.
The lyrics also touch on the idea of freedom and the hopeful atmosphere of the past. The line "freedom was at hand and you could just taste it" suggests a time when change and progress felt within reach. It reflects a moment when society was on the brink of something greater, where hope and optimism permeated the air. The reference to brothers singing "Ain't no woman like the one I got" hints at the celebration of love and the importance of appreciating and valuing the women in their lives.
As the song progresses, it shifts its focus to the present, acknowledging the challenges faced in the current state of society. The reference to "running from the beat-down cops" and feeling "running out of time" and "running out of patience" speaks to the continued struggle for equality and justice. The mention of the "war of the conscious mind" highlights the ongoing fight for awareness and social change. The lyrics express a desire for "black-on-black love," emphasizing the need for unity within the black community as a means of support and empowerment. The line "a slow grind for these changing times" suggests that navigating through the challenges requires perseverance and a commitment to progress.
The song also celebrates the beauty and movement of brown bodies. The phrase "beautiful brown bodies" is an ode to the physicality and presence of black individuals. The reference to "pimp, switch and sway" signifies the freedom of expression and the embrace of sensuality. The lyrics highlight the positive feelings that arise from this connection, stating, "You give me good feeling. Yes, you do."
In summary, "I'm Diggin' You (Like An Old Soul Record)" by Meshell Ndegeocello captures a sense of longing for a past era marked by black consciousness, love, and unity. It reflects on the challenges faced in the present and emphasizes the importance of black-on-black love and collective support. The song also celebrates the beauty and movement of brown bodies, highlighting the joy and positivity that can emanate from these connections.
