Released: 2004
Vomitspit by MF DOOM dives deep into the complex layers of hip-hop beats, real-life struggles, and the raw, unfiltered art of rhyming. DOOM plays with words and meanings in a way that paints vivid pictures, often leaving listeners nodding to the rhythm while unpacking the density of his bars. This track showcases his skill in blending humor with stark social commentary, all wrapped up in sophisticated wordplay.
The song kicks off with DOOM expressing how the beat infiltrates his dreams, emphasizing its power to resonate beyond just the studio. “Blare it in your Jeep, so your peoples can stare at them rhymes” suggests playing the music loud in public, a nod to sharing the art of hip-hop with everyone, making the beats and rhymes a collective experience. The reference to “Real rhymes not your everyday hologram” hints at the authenticity of his lyrics, contrasting the superficial or fake content often seen in the industry. DOOM’s commitment to authenticity is further highlighted with, “Even when ribs was touchin’, never swallowed the ham,” implying he stayed true to his values, even when times were tough.
DOOM’s storytelling goes beyond personal tales, touching on societal issues with lines like, “A lot of stuff happens that the news won’t tell you’s.” This line underscores the idea that mainstream media often omits or glosses over important events and issues, especially those affecting marginalized communities. The mention of “Blues on L juice, snooze, all hell loose” can be seen as describing the chaos and struggles within these neglected neighborhoods, with “L juice” possibly referring to alcohol, underscoring how substance abuse is both a symptom and a coping mechanism for deeper societal issues.
The humor in DOOM’s lyrics often comes with a critical edge. Take “She wanna hear the beatbox / Take pills and make fake krills as sheetrock.” Here, he’s poking fun at the lengths people go to mimic trends or escape reality, blending the absurd with the grim realities of drug abuse and escapism. This ability to mix humor with critique is a hallmark of DOOM’s lyrical style.
The track also delves into the grittiness of street life and the hustle, encapsulated by lines like, “Gift for the grind, criminal mind shifty / Swift with the nine through a fifty-nine fifty.” Here, DOOM acknowledges the street smarts and survival instincts required in tough environments. The reference to “fifty-nine fifty” mirrors this with a nod to the New Era 59FIFTY, a popular brand of hat that’s become a cultural staple, symbolizing street cred and identity.
Finally, Vomitspit concludes on an introspective note with “Dedicated cheap skater who keeps data / Say he stay self-medicated to sleep later.” This line illustrates DOOM’s self-awareness and perhaps his own coping mechanisms, acknowledging the self-medication many turn to for solace or escape. The song closes with a quirky but signature act of defiance, “Begged him on the regular for kegs of more vomitspit,” suggesting a relentless pursuit of his art, continuously refining and delivering his unique brand of lyrical genius, no matter the reception or challenges.
Much like the layered complexity of his mask, MF DOOM’s Vomitspit layers intricate beats, clever wordplay, and slices of life to create a track that’s both reflective and forward-pushing, encouraging listeners to delve deeper into the realms of hip-hop, life, and beyond.
