Watch the official music video for 'Respiration' to see the urban imagery that inspired the track's lyrics: Black Star - Respiration ft. Common BlackStarVEVO YouTube• Jun 16, 2009
"Respiration" is a critically acclaimed 1998 hip-hop single by the duo (rappers Mos Def, now known as Yasiin Bey, and Talib Kweli), featuring a guest verse from Common . Produced by Hi-Tek, it is celebrated for its poetic, melancholy exploration of city life, comparing the concrete landscape to a living, breathing organism. Song Breakdown & Meanings Black Star Respiration
Respiration - song and lyrics by Black Star, Common - Spotify Watch the official music video for 'Respiration' to
: There is a notable remix by Dr. Luke and another by Pete Rock. Song Breakdown & Meanings Respiration - song and
: Broadens the scope, reflecting on the survival instincts required in the urban "concrete jungle" where people are "crawling under pressure". Technical Elements
: Focuses on the duality of the city. He compares New York to a "bruised but sweet" apple, warning that those who "choose to eat" might lose their teeth—a metaphor for the dangers beneath the city's surface.
: Samples a monologue from the 1983 graffiti documentary Style Wars , setting a gritty, authentic New York tone.