Released: 2004
Stepping up to the plate, we’re here to tackle ‘Hoe Cakes’ by the one and only arch-villain of hip-hop, MF DOOM. In essence, this standout track from the ‘MM..FOOD?’ album is a slick, tongue-in-cheek ode to the game of love, with DOOM playing the role of both the player and the coach. Just like he does with his multisyllabic rhyme schemes, DOOM navigates the intricate world of relationships and seduction with the finesse of a true super villain, never losing his cool or his grip on the mic.
The track opens with DOOM’s confident swagger, as he mentions a girl who’s totally under his spell, likening himself to King Koopa, a reference to the boss character from the Super Mario franchise, metaphorically the boss in this relationship game. He navigates through the first verse giving us a snapshot of a typical date scenario and ends it with a witty line saying that he’s just like Sesame Street’s Mr. Hooper, easy with handing out cookies to rookies – a nod to his experience and prowess.
In the third verse, DOOM dives into the physical attributes of women, citing preferences for those with ‘fatty swolla’, street slang for larger buttocks. With references to high rollers and a lyric nod to Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, DOOM maintains his playful tone throughout. This verse extends into hints of mentoring women on aspects of life and relationships, staying true to a father figure, or a ‘super’ who guides them in life.
We’re back with more sharp lines in the fourth verse where DOOM advises men how to properly treat women, again acting as the ‘super’ guide. The verse is peppered with advice like treating her right and showing her appreciation. By the end of the verse, he’s got her dressed blessed in the best furs, proving his affection and dedication to the ladies he’s involved with.
In the second to last verse, DOOM’s gets more direct, showing the darker side of the ‘game,’ complete with deception and betrayal. From tales of theft to infidelity, DOOM paints a picture of the realities many face in relationships, offering a nuanced perspective.
The song closes on a transitioning narrative, hinting at DOOM’s villainous escapades outside of the interpersonal realm. Surreal elements of cold weather, and discussions about DOOM’s movements and a mysterious machine, all reflect MF DOOM’s artistry and mastery in painting abstract scenarios, contributing to the overall lore of his villain alter-ego.
All said and done, the song is DOOM’s full-on display of his unique style – rich, wordplay-heavy bars delivered over a looped, funky beat. ‘Hoe Cakes’ is a distinctive anthem for the players in the game, the ‘supers’ leading the pack, served up with a side of MF DOOM’s super-villain persona.
