Verse 1
They out here prostitutin' kiddos
Fill they pockets with dinero
Pedophiles, pitiful
Sell a child to centerfold
Take they innocence, put in on the internet
Purities tainted, dignities shaken
Enslavin' the soul of all of these babies
And freedom got a price nobody payin'
Makin' money, American dream ain't it, nah!
It's a nightmare, don't fight fair for white here
Benjamin Franklins, killin' we hate for him
Write a song justifyin' the lies we take for him, hold up
They ain't with me, I'm willin' to wait for 'em
Lil' me sat up on the porch, thinkin' dolla bills
Stomach filled from another meal that my momma killed still
I can't keep still
I'd probably steal to keep a couple of Nike checks on the back of my heels
Grandma back on them pills
I need a stack of them bills
They say we slaves to the money
I guess we back in the field
I'ma go pursue my happiness, they told me it was free
But I'm still payin' for it, I'm indebted to this thing
Heard a prophet say the profit, don't focus on makin' change
Just focus on tryna be it and maybe you'll make a gain
Maybe you'll free the slaves, maybe you'll bring a change
The destinations are different but everyone's on the train
Hook 1: N'Dambi
Freedom isn't free
But I still, I still believe in my freedom
So my mind can see
Please let me be free, please let me
Freedom
Verse 2: Lecrae
I'm out here chasin' this freedom
They out here choppin' my feet off
And if they catch me I'm Toby, but I ain't 'bout to believe it
King Kunta, king of coonin', or Kenan & Kel
Rather rot in a jail cell than be up in hell, well
Well done, is you cookin' or is you hearin' your Father say, "Well done"?
Is He lookin' at all your honors?
Modestly I'll be honest, I'm hangin' onto that promise
Cause honestly I ain't really been everything that I oughta
Oughta be on my Harriet, bury me next to Honest Abe
Here's lies another man murdered for tryna free the slaves
I gave Chief Keef my number in New York this summer
I told him, "I could get you free", I'm on my Nat Turner
Back burner, cookin' up a fat burger
While we shuck and jive to a song about a crack murder
Know we need a change but we threw it on the stage
Got some money and a soul and neither one of us saved
Slaves, get free
Hook 2: N'Dambi
Freedom, it isn't free
But I still believe, I still believe in our freedom
So my mind can see
Please let me be free, please let me be free
Freedom
Outro: N'Dambi
Freedom, freedom, freedom
Freedom Video
Freedom Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
"Freedom" by Lecrae is a powerful and thought-provoking track that delves into the complexities of freedom in the modern age, juxtaposing personal, societal, and spiritual aspects of liberation. Lecrae, a Christian rapper known for his deep and meaningful lyrics, uses this song to explore the chains that bind individuals and societies, while also pointing towards a path of true freedom found through faith.
### Verse 1 Analysis
The first verse introduces the theme of exploitation and the loss of innocence in society. Lecrae highlights the dark reality of child trafficking and the devaluation of human life for monetary gain. This verse reflects on how societal values have been corrupted by greed, leading to the commodification of purity and innocence.
Biblically, this verse resonates with Proverbs 22:22-23, which warns against exploiting the poor and needy, stating that the Lord will defend their cause. This scripture underscores the song's message of advocating for the voiceless and standing against injustice.
### Hook 1 Analysis
The hook, performed by N'Dambi, emphasizes the paradox of freedom. It suggests that while we are told freedom is our right, it often feels like it has to be purchased or earned. This reflects the biblical concept found in John 8:36, "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." Here, Jesus speaks of a freedom that transcends physical or societal chains — a freedom of the soul that only He can provide.
### Verse 2 Analysis
In the second verse, Lecrae personalizes the struggle for freedom, acknowledging his own pursuit and the obstacles that come with it. He references historical figures and symbols of resistance, indicating that the fight for freedom is both a personal and collective journey.
The mention of "King Kunta" and "Nat Turner" brings forth the idea of rebellion against oppression, while "Harriet" (Harriet Tubman) and "Honest Abe" (Abraham Lincoln) symbolize the pursuit of liberation for the enslaved. This verse embodies Galatians 5:1, "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." Lecrae emphasizes that true freedom involves not just physical liberation but also spiritual awakening.
### Hook 2 Analysis
Reiterating the theme of the song, the second hook continues to question the nature of freedom and the price it comes with. It calls for introspection on what it means to be truly free, urging listeners to seek a freedom that transcends material or worldly constraints.
### Conclusion
"Freedom" by Lecrae is not just a song but a call to action. It challenges listeners to reflect on their understanding of freedom, the societal chains that bind us, and the spiritual liberation that is offered through faith in Jesus Christ. The song beautifully ties in biblical principles, advocating for justice, compassion, and true freedom that can only be found in a relationship with God.
