The song "Grace Of God" by Apollo Brown & Joell Ortiz is a reflection on the struggles and hardships the artists have faced growing up in their respective environments. The lyrics delve into themes of survival, resilience, and the influence of God's grace in their lives. The song starts with the line, "Just put the headphones on, it sounds so nice, by the grace of God." This suggests that music, particularly when experienced through headphones, provides a sense of solace and escape from the harsh realities of life. The lyrics then transition into addressing the challenges faced in their neighborhoods, metaphorically describing themselves as "crabs in the barrel." This implies that they are constantly overshadowed and hindered by their surroundings, but they continue to strive for success. The mention of "barb wired ankles" and "mountain bike niggas" conveys the dangers and violence present in their communities. The artists emphasize the importance of keeping their experiences within themselves, as speaking out or "tattling" can lead to severe consequences. The line "zip ya mouth shut then zip you up and skedaddle" highlights the fear and control imposed by those in power. Joell Ortiz reflects on his desire to imitate drug dealers and killers, and his admiration for the confidence of "boosters" (those who steal and resell high-end items). He proudly represents his hometown of Brooklyn, expressing his identity through wearing Timberland boots ("Tims") all year round and smoking potent marijuana ("kush"). The lyrics also touch on the police brutality and systemic oppression faced by black communities, referencing how the same issues persist today, even though they were not as widely captured on camera phones during their upbringing. The chorus repeats the phrase "by the grace of God," highlighting the artists' reliance on divine intervention and protection throughout their lives. They acknowledge their upbringing and the influence it has had on shaping their identities. In the second verse, Joell Ortiz describes himself as a product of his environment, where young people engage in illegal activities to make a living. Despite their belief in God, they also idolize those involved in criminal activities. He expresses a willingness to use violence to defend his pride and survival, referencing movies like "Boys in the Hood" and "Menace to Society." Joell Ortiz admits to having contemplated engaging in a life of crime but ultimately deciding against it. He hopes to avoid judgment from God for the choices he has made, acknowledging the influence of the devil in making things seem appealing and enticing. The lyrics touch on the allure and deception of material possessions, particularly jewelry ("chain") that serves as a distraction from one's true self. However, the artists recognize the importance of self-reflection and acknowledge the pain and hardships hidden behind their exterior. The song concludes by emphasizing the artists' escape from their challenging environments. They credit their survival to the grace of God, narrowly avoiding the struggles faced in their neighborhoods. Despite the hardships, they express gratitude for still being here and surviving. Overall, "Grace Of God" is a introspective and introspective piece that explores the artists' personal experiences, resilience, and the role of faith in overcoming adversity.
