“C.R.E.A.M.,” from the Wu-Tang Clan, produced primarily by RZA “ rooted in a grinding narrative of inner city survival and densely packed sonics (with no samplers) is one such example 1990s hip-hop landmark. Titled after the acronym for “Cash Rules Everything Around Me”, it’s a statement about poverty and temptation in tough conditions of the world. The raw depiction of the life of young black people growing up in that era, on those known streets of New York city mixed with observation and self-analysis transforms it from social commentary to personal testimony.
Production wise “C.R.E.A.M” was heavily atmospheric utilizing a simple beat structure combined with the haunting piano sample from The Charmels’ — As Long as I’ve Got You. But it is that looping piano riff which provides the wistfulness, breaking and pausing at just the right moments while keeping it grounded in a melancholic nod to lightness. Featuring a pop sample, this choice of sound introduces the idea of intertextuality — connecting the sonic colours of the song to an earlier musical age by combining 1990’s harsh realities with sounds from 1960s soul. RZA cuts and pastes from this sample to create a soundscape that feels as hopeless yet resilient as the subject matter, mirroring lyrics which narrate struggle in desolation.
The simple beat allows Raekwon and Inspectah Deck to spit some great rhymes. Rappers display their vivid storytelling abilities with Raekwon reminiscing on his own formative years, hustling and doubling down out of desperation, whereas Deck finds subject matter through reflecting socio-political elements accorded to him from his reality. Lines like “Life as a shorty shouldn’t be so rough,” capture the very real feeling of young people being unjustly failed by society when they are born into poverty. These intertextual references also extend to the colloquial language they use, employing slang and catchphrases particular to their street culture era.
This music connects listeners to the experiences of marginalized people, giving them a genuine understanding of their struggles and fostering a sense of community among those who share these challenges. The song’s recurring phrase, “Cash rules everything around me,” highlights the pervasive influence and potential dangers of money and what it can do to you. It acknowledges that the pursuit of financial wealth can be a necessary means of survival but also a vicious circle that traps individuals in poverty and crime.
“C.R.E.A.M.” has become a famous phrase in hip-hop and beyond, connecting the song to other cultural works and music. It tells a story about the realities of city life in each verse, reflecting the social and political issues of the time. The song’s simple production, honest lyrics, and many cultural connections show the challenges faced by those on the fringes of society. “C.R.E.A.M.” remains a timeless classic and a powerful reflection of social issues, connecting with people across generations.
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