The Meaning Behind The Song: You Never Knew by Hieroglyphics
As a music lover and a musician myself, I am constantly exploring different genres and discovering new artists. One day, while browsing through a friend’s music collection, I stumbled upon a song that immediately captivated me – “You Never Knew” by Hieroglyphics. Little did I know that this song would not only become one of my all-time favorites but also hold a deeper meaning that resonates with me to this day.
I first heard this song on a lazy Sunday afternoon, surrounded by friends, and engulfed in the comforting haze of late 90s hip-hop. The opening lines, “It’s like that and a, a Hieroglyphics, yeah,” immediately caught my attention and set the tone for what was to come. The smooth, jazzy sample of Patrice Rushen’s “Didn’t You Know” added a nostalgic touch, lending the song a timeless quality.
However, it was the lyrics that truly spoke to me. The verses, delivered by A-Plus, Pep Love, Phesto, Del the Funky Homosapien, Tajai, and Opio, paint a vivid picture of their journey as artists, their dedication to their craft, and their unwavering commitment to staying true to themselves. Each verse captures the essence of their individual experiences, while also emphasizing the strength and unity that comes from being part of the Hieroglyphics crew.
A-Plus starts the song off by emphasizing the importance of being authentic and delivering what the people want. He speaks about his desire to secure financial stability for his loved ones through his music while staying humble and grounded. His words resonate with the everyday struggles that artists face, reminding us that success in the music industry is not just about glamour and fame.
Pep Love’s verse reflects on the journey of Hieroglyphics from their early days to their current state of creative independence. He praises their innovative approach to music-making and their refusal to conform to mainstream trends. “We finding trees and trails to blaze, boundaries to cross,” he raps, encapsulating the group’s relentless pursuit of artistic growth.
Phesto’s verse is an ode to the power of underground hip-hop and the impact Hieroglyphics has had on the genre. He highlights their ability to break boundaries and push the limits of what is considered “normal” in the music industry. “Musical boundaries, running circles around emcees,” he proclaims, cementing Hieroglyphics’ status as pioneers in the hip-hop scene.
Del the Funky Homosapien’s verse takes a more introspective turn, addressing the fake personas and superficiality he sees in the industry. He emphasizes the need to stay true to oneself and not be swayed by external forces. His poignant lyrics serve as a reminder to prioritize authenticity and self-expression over fleeting trends.
Tajai’s verse reflects on the timeless nature of hip-hop and its ability to transcend time and place. He acknowledges the challenges faced by artists in an era obsessed with materialism and commercial success. He encourages his listeners to push the boundaries and create music that is true to themselves, regardless of societal expectations.
Opio’s verse celebrates the global impact of Hieroglyphics’ music, highlighting their ability to captivate audiences from Chicago to Japan. He emphasizes their resilience in the face of adversity and their commitment to staying true to their craft. It’s a testament to the power of music to connect people from different backgrounds and cultures.
Collectively, the verses in “You Never Knew” paint a vivid picture of the Hieroglyphics crew’s journey as artists – from their humble beginnings to their current status as respected figures in the hip-hop world. Their dedication to their craft, their refusal to conform, and their unwavering commitment to staying true to themselves serve as a powerful inspiration for aspiring musicians like myself.
Listening to “You Never Knew” feels like being let into a secret society, a gathering of passionate artists who have weathered the storm, broken boundaries, and are determined to leave their mark on the world. The song’s timeless message of authenticity, resilience, and artistic integrity continues to resonate with me, making it a meaningful and significant piece in my personal music journey.
