Cry Baby

In 'Cry Baby,' Afu-Ra delivers a poignant and heartfelt tribute to hip-hop, personifying the genre as a woman who has been mistreated and exploited. The chorus, sung by Lady Blue, sets the emotional tone, lamenting the loss of innocence and carefree joy due to the harsh realities imposed by others. This sets the stage for Afu-Ra's verses, where he expresses his deep love and respect for hip-hop, contrasting it with the way others have abused and misused it.

Afu-Ra's lyrics are rich with metaphors, portraying hip-hop as a beloved partner who has been physically and mentally abused. He criticizes those who exploit the genre for material gain, neglecting its cultural and artistic value. His repeated declarations of love—'I'm loving everything about you'—serve as a stark contrast to the mistreatment he describes. This duality highlights his genuine affection and commitment to preserving the purity and integrity of hip-hop.

The song also delves into broader social issues, such as materialism and the negative influences on youth. Afu-Ra laments how the true essence of hip-hop has been overshadowed by commercialism and superficiality. He acknowledges his own role in this dynamic but emphasizes his efforts to stay true to the culture. The imagery of hip-hop growing from a seed into a forest, only to have its flowers die, underscores the sense of loss and decay he feels. Through 'Cry Baby,' Afu-Ra calls for a return to the roots of hip-hop, advocating for a culture of respect, love, and authenticity.