dead prez are one of those hip-hop groups that you'll rarely hear on the radio. Their music often contains political messages that many media companies aren't comfortable with.
This song focuses on black woman. On the women who don't wear that much make up. Those who wear their natural hair with pride. Those who have had to battle with white beauty standards, seeing others with long, straight hair receiving attention, more respect and even better job opportunities. Several US states had to pass laws to ban natural hair discrimination this year! It may sound like a joke, but this is reality. And yes even in the UK, pupils have been sent home and excluded for their natural, non-dyed hair.
Chorus
Beauty's within, not just on the surface.
The skin that you're in, you're already perfect.
They got nothin' on you baby.
Nothin' on you baby
Beautiful girls come in all types of flavours,
When you love yourself, it's always gon' be haters.
They got nothin' on you baby
Just keep doin' you baby.
This tune almost brings me to tears every single time.
Not all rap music is misogynistic.
What are the differences in the bassline from the verse to the chorus?
When M-1 says 'red, black and that green' (2:07), what does that mean?
How would you describe the vocals at 2:09 - 2:27?
Where is there call and response?
There are some famous women from 2:30 to the end... can you name any?
This song by dead prez is such a powerful reminder that beauty is much deeper than surface-level standards. It’s about embracing natural features, like hair texture, and celebrating who we are. Laser hair removal is one option for those who prefer a smooth look, but true beauty comes from confidence and self-love, just like the song says.