I've seen it coming I'm trapped in this body and can't get out It is the 21st century They got scared and they put me in All the lies run around my face And for anyone else to see

They got me trapped (Uh uh, they can't keep the black man down) (Naw, they can't keep the black man down) You know they got me trapped in this prison of seclusion Happiness, living on the streets is a delusion Even a smooth criminal one day must get

'Cause it's a shake down A bunch of gangstas strapped So make a wish now When they come wavin' them ghats Ya know to lay down And give em all ya got Do I make myself clear