It's Tricky

Run DMC's 'It's Tricky' is a song that celebrates the skill and challenges of creating hip-hop music while also commenting on the complexities of fame. The opening lines set the stage for a performance, likening the beat to a recital, which underscores the importance of rhythm and timing in their craft. The repeated chorus 'It's tricky to rock a rhyme, to rock a rhyme that's right on time' emphasizes the difficulty of perfecting the art of rapping, where precision and rhythm are crucial.

The verses delve into the personal experiences of the artists, touching on the interactions with fans and the opposite sex, and the misconceptions people have about their lifestyle. The lyrics 'These girls are really sleazy, all they just say is please me' and 'A girl named Carol follows Darryl every gig we play' reflect the challenges of dealing with fame and the often-unwanted attention it brings. The song also addresses the pressure and expectations from the public, as seen in the lines 'I'm not bragging, people nagging, 'cause they think I'm a star' and 'They even bother my poor father, 'cause he's down with me.'

Towards the end of the song, Run DMC makes a strong statement about their stance on drugs and the assumptions made about them, 'We are not dumb, we don't use drugs, but you assume on your own.' This line serves to dispel the stereotypes often associated with hip-hop artists at the time. The song concludes with a reaffirmation of their dedication to their music and their integrity, despite the distractions and challenges that come with success.