Eye Know (feat. Otis Redding)
De La Soul
A Hip-Hop Love Letter: De La Soul's 'Eye Know'
De La Soul's 'Eye Know' is a vibrant and playful love song that blends hip-hop with a touch of romantic nostalgia. The song is a part of their debut album, '3 Feet High and Rising,' which is known for its eclectic and innovative approach to hip-hop. The lyrics are delivered by the group's members, Posdnuos (POS) and Trugoy the Dove (DOVE), who take turns expressing their affection and admiration for their love interests in a whimsical and poetic manner.
The song opens with POS inviting the listener into his 'world of phrase,' setting the stage for a lyrical journey filled with clever wordplay and metaphors. He emphasizes that this is a 'one man sport,' suggesting a deep, personal connection that is unique and exclusive. The repeated line 'Eye know Eye love you better' serves as a reassuring mantra, highlighting the sincerity and depth of his feelings. POS's verses are filled with playful imagery, such as 'picking my plantation of Daisies for a bouquet of Soul,' which symbolizes offering something pure and heartfelt.
DOVE's verses continue the theme of love and devotion, introducing himself as 'the chosen one to speak' and aiming to win over his love interest with charm and sincerity. He dismisses past relationships as trivial, emphasizing that 'it takes two, not three, to seduce,' and elevates the concept of love beyond mere physical attraction. The line 'Sex is a mere molecule in this world of love that I have for you' underscores the idea that their connection is profound and multifaceted. DOVE's verses are filled with romantic gestures and promises of a shared future, painting a picture of an idealized, almost utopian love.
The song's playful and imaginative lyrics are complemented by its upbeat and funky production, which features samples from various genres, including jazz and funk. This fusion of sounds and styles reflects De La Soul's innovative approach to hip-hop and their ability to create music that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. 'Eye Know' stands out as a testament to the group's creativity and their ability to infuse their music with positivity and love.