I Felt That Way

It’s amazing how a song can bring out so many feelings and emotions of a person. Of course I prefer songs that make me feel good and make a lasting impression upon me; songs that I will always remember for many years to come. I must say, Blackalicious outdid themselves in the field of making people feel good with their music.

I first found out about them in the spring of 2002, at the Cotton Club in Atlanta during my freshman year of college. They were opening up for Talib Kweli, who was the headlining act for the night. I was interested in finding out what they did music-wise, simply due to the fact that their stage name was “Blackalicious” out of all things. Once I got inside, the show was getting ready to start. When they were introduced to the audience, I was impressed with their stage presence and their energy. The songs performed were innovative and different. The freestyle sessions during their set had everyone moving and dancing. Their presentation of hip-hop was very left field from the type of rap that was being released in Atlanta during the time.

As much as I loved their music, I truly became an immediate fan when they started up “Make You Feel That Way”. I just could not believe how beautiful the song was! I felt like I was in a mellow state of mind, free from the stress of school, at peace with my spirit, and uncontrollably happy. Seriously, the song had a big effect on me; the music was on point, the background singers were phenomenal, and Gift of Gab (the lead rapper of the group) grabbed the audience’s attention with his lyrical content that focused on things that make you feel good. In this case, positive situations that “make you feel that way.” I didn’t even want the song to end!

That was an unforgettable performance. Every time I put on the “Blazing Arrow” album and listen to that specific song, it doesn’t matter what I’m going through in my life. “Make You Feel That Way” assists in my thinking positive and feeling good, focusing on my appreciation of the wonderful AND difficult things I have experienced in my life. I’m able to focus on the future with a smile on my face whenever I “feel that way.”