It's Biiiiishop

“You got a Bentley but can’t keep gas in it
A Gucci wallet, but ain’t got cash in it
Go out to eat, it’s yo’ treat, then, at the last minute
Say you forgot it, never had it, want them to spend it
Now that’s an interesting thang
Cuz in ya’ video ya’ havin’ so much blang
A few days ago I heard you pawned that chain
Instead of coppin’ that you should’ve copped the food chain
V-necks, Mohawks…just ain’t me
Shit, it barely looked right on Mr. T
Ya biker chains, designer shades just ain’t right
Especially when ya’ can’t breathe ‘cause ya’ pants too tight
Wack beats, catchy hooks and lil’ ass kids
Add a dance to it and it’s gonna’ be big
It’s our fault everythang done flip-flopped
You wanna’ save hip-hop, rappers, then you gotta…grow up.”

For the new guy at Aftermath, Bishop Lamont sounds pretty schooled in regards to his occupation.

The irony is thick though. While every line spit in this verse, the second from The Reformation‘s first official single, “Grow Up,” rings true these days, it’s those same childish rappers Bishop speaks of that are keeping his conscious cut out of the top ten across the country. Truth is, these days, radio listeners actually want emo-clad rappers doin’ the Hokie Pokie.

Unfortunately for the would-be heir to Dr. Dre’s throne, as a society, we’ve dumbed down.

Now, I know it isn’t commerically on par with past Andre-produced jump-offs like, “What’s My Name?”, “In Da Club” or even “My Name Is.” However, to Bishop’s credit, “Grow Up” is an extremely thought-provoking track, filled with humor and reality alike, that’s much deserving of some spins. Even if it is in a world where teen’s choices decide whose career will…grow up.

Bishop Lamont – Grow Up (Prod. By Dr. Dre)

Bonus — Video: Bishop Lamont Interview w/ Shadyville DJs via Nah Right