Auditorium ft. Slick Rick

Mos Def, now known as Yasiin Bey, is an artist renowned for his conscious rap, a style that focuses on social issues, self-awareness, and the empowerment of marginalized communities. 'Auditorium' featuring Slick Rick is a track from Mos Def's 2009 album 'The Ecstatic,' which is known for its eclectic mix of global sounds and introspective lyrics.

The song 'Auditorium' serves as a platform for Mos Def to express his thoughts on the state of the world, the struggles of the oppressed, and the power of music to transcend barriers. The lyrics depict a sense of restlessness and urgency, as Mos Def describes the difficulty of staying passive in a world filled with passion and turmoil. He speaks of the people who 'breathe without hope,' indicating a loss of direction and purpose in society. The 'universal, ghetto life' he refers to is a testament to the shared experiences of those living in poverty and facing systemic challenges, regardless of their location.

Slick Rick's verse adds another layer to the song, as he adopts the persona of a soldier in Iraq, interacting with the locals and reflecting on the cultural and political tensions. The 'young Iraqi kid' represents the innocence affected by war and the desire for sovereignty, as seen in the line 'No, give me my oil, get fuck out my country.' The verse ends on a lighter note, with Slick Rick's rap bringing people together, suggesting that music has the power to bridge gaps and create moments of unity even in the most divided of places. The chorus, with its repeated question 'What it is,' could be interpreted as a call for awareness and recognition of the realities faced by different communities around the world.