Check it, see I don't wanna say that this is the end
I'll end by saying this is where we'll begin
Hip hop is a freedom of expression
It's not a freedom of depression
Can I make my one suggestion?

Look at how we're labeled 'gangster rappers'
Is that their only impression? Wake up!

Rap is a craft, art and a rapper's sport
Someone like a game of basketball can't be taught
But yet we accept the name 'Thug', like that's fly

See how they covered our eyes?
Give us names to separate us
Sit back and watch us beef and make us hate us
Say what? I'm done talking, Mary J Blige
Let 'em know 'This Is Not A Test', I hear you calling

What you hear is not a test, I'm rocking to the beat
See me and my crew and my friends
We're gonna try to move your feet

See, I am Mary Blige and I'd like to say hello
To the black, to the white, the red and the brown
The purple and yellow
But first you gotta, oh
But first you gotta