Black Star Respiration -

: Broadens the scope, reflecting on the survival instincts required in the urban "concrete jungle" where people are "crawling under pressure". Technical Elements

"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

: Samples a monologue from the 1983 graffiti documentary Style Wars , setting a gritty, authentic New York tone. : Broadens the scope, reflecting on the survival

Respiration - song and lyrics by Black Star, Common - Spotify Song Breakdown & Meanings : Samples a monologue

: The beat is built around a sample of "The Fox" by Don Randi.