Meaning of "Skew It on the Bar-B" by OutKast
The song "Skew It on the Bar-B" by OutKast is an anthem celebrating the fusion of old school and new school styles. The lyrics emphasize the importance of keeping the energy and excitement alive, comparing it to kangaroos jumping. OutKast declares that they won't lose their unique essence and integrity despite any attempts to change the rules of the game.
The opening lines, "Old school playas to new school fools, 'Kast keep it jumpin' like kangaroos," highlight the contrast between different eras and generations of musicians. OutKast signifies their place in this continuum, bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary styles, and ensuring that their music remains dynamic and engaging.
The lyrics also touch on the idea of staying true to oneself and not succumbing to external pressures or influences. OutKast rejects any attempts to change their identity, expressing, "Say I'll be goddamned if they done changed the rules." This refusal to conform shows their commitment to their unique style and refusal to compromise their artistic vision.
The verses include references to various aspects of street life and urban culture. Lines like "Find the common denominator, the nigga numerator" and "Caught a rico back on the street like Chico...DeBarge" demonstrate OutKast's lyrical prowess and ability to weave together imagery and wordplay. The lyrics also touch on social dynamics, with references to parties, women, and the envy of other men who scheme against OutKast.
The second half of the song focuses on the raw energy and intensity of their music. Phrases like "Deliver this through your audio, ghetto mafioso," "Price that longevity, suggest make moves slow," and "Hydro slide raw like fuck Renaldo" showcases their lyrical skill and their ability to capture the essence of the street culture in their music.
Additionally, the lyrics boast about their longevity in the music industry, mentioning their classic album "Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik," and the support they receive from their local communities, including College Park, East Pointe, and Decatur. They express gratitude for their loyal fan base as they promise to continue making music and leaving their mark.
Overall, "Skew It on the Bar-B" is a celebration of OutKast's unique style, blending old school and new school influences, and rejecting any attempts to change or dilute their artistry. It showcases their lyrical prowess, commitment to their roots, and the impact they have had on the music industry.