Released: 2020 • Features: Pusha T, Swizz Beatz, Killer Mike
“Good Morning” by “Black Thought”, featuring Pusha T, Swizz Beatz, and Killer Mike, is a powerful commentary on social issues such as privilege, racism, and drug abuse that are deeply rooted in Black communities while also showcasing the artists’ unrelenting success in a society stacked against them. It presents a vivid picture of their respective origin stories, filtered through a lens of brutal honesty, cultural pride, and unapologetic authenticity.
Black Thought’s verse is an ode to his city, Philadelphia, depicting its harsh realities: drug abuse, poverty, and crime. The line ‘the difference between Black and White is mad privilege’ highlights racial disparity, asserting that white privilege creates a significant divide. This is followed by a biblical reference to Lucifer, symbolizing how society has ignored the warnings of systemic racial issues – a storm is brewing.
Pusha T’s verse emphasizes his rise from a gritty past to unparalleled success. His brag about ‘four million in homes three hours apart’ and his insistence on doing features to prove his dominance in the industry underscore the pride he takes in his accomplishments despite the system’s odds. He also references his flamboyant lifestyle, with an explicit shot at the presidency symbolizing his untouchability: ‘bulletproof package like I’m POTUS’.
Killer Mike’s verse is a lesson in Black history and self-empowerment. He underlines the historical achievements of Black civilizations, ‘building pyramids and African empires’, while also shedding light on the savagery of white civilizations. He criticizes those who worship men rather than recognizing their divine nature. His plans to ‘go to Ghana to reclaim my name’ signals a desire for a connection with ancestral African roots. His verse concludes with a bold representation of himself as a leader, using his success for community good by buying his neighborhood block rather than indulging in materialistic purchases. His last couplet cleverly plays on the names of two influential figures in hip-hop – Pusha T (also featured in the song) and Black Thought himself – symbolizing his alignment with such impactful artists.
Overall, “Good Morning” serves as a rallying cry, a wakeup call, and an unfiltered exploration of the Black experience in America, showcasing the artists’ gritty realities, the systemic issues they face, and their unwavering resilience.
