[Missy Elliott] 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 Not a freedom of depression Can I make my one suggestion Look at how we're labelled gangster rappers Is that their only impression, wake up Rap is a craft, art and a rap of sport Something 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
[Mary J. Blige] What you hear is not a test I'm rocking to the beat (I'm rocking to the beat) See me and my crew and my friends We're gonna try to move your feet (move around, move around) See I am Mary Blige (yes I am) And I'd like to say hello (thank you for inviting me) To the black, to the white, the red and the brown The purple and yellow (everybody) But first you gotta, oh, but first you gotta