“We already Black, We ain’t gotta wear Blackface.” -Tattoo Money
This profound line is from Brooklyn-bred Hip Hop Singer/Songwriter Tattoo Money’s latest single “Caffeine On An Empty Stomach”. The self-produced hard rock/hip hop hybrid delves into the stigmas that come with being an “eclectic” black male in today’s society. It’s an ode to anyone who likes to watch old re-runs of “Friends”, but also enjoys listening to French Montana. It also serves as a vehicle for TM to channel his frustrations from dealing with the “Not Black enough to be Black. Not White enough to be White” rhetoric that he’s encountered throughout his life and career. “Walk in the club with my guitar on my shoulder, and they ask if I’m the DJ that sh*t is so bogus!” TM fumes as the idea of him only being able to spin records reminds him of how ignorant certain people can be. On the opposite end of the spectrum, “Caffeine..” is a song of reassurance to people of color that it’s ok to indulge in music & movies that transcend “urban” culture and STILL exude the pride that comes with being from an ethnic background. The song’s bridge acts as a mantra of sorts as TM croons “Ima be me Black and carefree, I’m my skin and my skin is me.” Well said, Tattoo……Well said.
WATCH: “Caffeine On An Empty Stomach”
Even though the song itself is loaded with heavy social commentary, the video is a comedic and sarcastic nod to the artist’s ability to not take himself so seriously. In the 4 minutes 52-second clip, TM finds himself in the clutches of professional gentrifiers and your friendly neighborhood gangsters alike. Their goal is to program him (or reprogram him depending on your perspective) to be the lovechild of a Hennessy and Love and Hip Hop binge, but our protagonist isn’t having it as he tries to flee on multiple occasions. The video borrows its plot from the 1994 David C. Johnson film “Drop Squad”, and features some of Tattoo Money’s friends (including one dread-lock-wearing writer).”Caffeine On An Empty Stomach'” is now available on all download/streaming platforms.
Deascent is a Hip Hop artist, music writer and on-air personality for “Popdust Presents“. He’s also the co-front man of The Cold Press. Follow him on Instagram.
READ MORE MUSIC…
Popdust Presents | TruthCity: Never Let Me Down
To Be Young, Emo, & Black
Popdust Presents | DERRICK MILANO: Play No Games
Related Articles Around the Web
