"We Can Make It Better," a profound track from Kanye West and Common, featured on the album Late Registration, is an articulate exploration of societal change, racial injustice, and the ethos of unity. The song is distinguished by its intricate lyrical composition and the involvement of prominent artists such as Q-Tip, Rhymefest, and Talib Kweli, each contributing their unique perspectives on pressing social issues.
Opening with Kanye West's reflective lines on societal disparities, "Somebody told me that Delta's brownskinned, AKAs' lightskinned / And they supposed to be bourgeois, so they got white friends," the song immediately delves into the intricacies of racial identity and social stratification. The chorus, "We can make it better," resonates as a powerful mantra for change, signifying the belief in collective efforts as a catalyst for societal improvement.
Talib Kweli intensifies the narrative by addressing racial injustices, focusing on the profound issue of reparations and the historical impact of slavery in the United States. His stirring lines, "Niggas want they reparations, How you calculate the amount to be paid / You try to imagine America without the slaves," confront listeners with the enduring consequences of slavery, urging contemplation on the owed restitution to the descendants of those enslaved.
Q-Tip contributes a poignant verse highlighting police brutality and systemic racism. His lyrics, "Her tenement yo, is rat infested / Her heart is like a gold bouillon cause she wouldn't protest it / Cause, her best friend's man got popped / He was sixteen years old, the cop thought his phone was a glock," vividly portray the relentless challenges faced by communities of color, particularly emphasizing the tragic outcomes of racial profiling and law enforcement misconduct.
Common enhances the dialogue, focusing on urban improvement and overcoming adversity within underprivileged communities. His verse, "I think of eighty-seven ways, to make better days / Whether climb or rhyme, I heard that rebel pays," implies that ingenuity and resilience are pivotal in fostering empowerment and creating pathways toward a brighter future.
Rhymefest adds a critical perspective on government policies and their impact on the African American community. His lyrics, "Terrorism on blacks, they poison our Newports / Patriot Act in effect, make it hard to breathe now," provide a scathing critique of the government's perpetuation of inequality and oppression.
"We Can Make It Better" transcends the boundaries of mere musical expression; it is a powerful statement on the imperative for societal transformation. Through its compelling lyrics and the synergistic collaboration of these artists, the track highlights the significance of unity, awareness, and proactive engagement in combating injustice. It serves as a clarion call to listeners to acknowledge their collective power in enacting change and fostering a more equitable future.
