This is a classic hip-hop track that I listened to as a kid back in the day. The idea that this is a story for children is a bit tongue in check. This is not Mother Goose. Kids living in tough neighborhoods, like I did, would need to hear this kind story. Other kids? I don’t know.

Listen closely near the end. You’ll hear a slowed down scream followed by a “yeah”. They become part of the rhythm and mimic a call and response vocal. These are samples from a classic James Brown record. Indeed they are the same samples used on “It Takes Two” by MC Rob Base and DJ EZ Rock.

Today is National Tell A Story Day. I can’t think of another track that is more appropriate. The official music video here does not track with the lyrics but it’s fun watch.

Is there a story you need to tell somebody today? Get to it.