The song "No Sellout" by Geto Boys addresses the issue of censorship and the struggles faced by black artists in the music industry. The lyrics express frustration towards the establishment and the attempts made to silence black voices. The song begins with DJ Ready Red scratching the quote, "The Negro, the Negro still... is not free," highlighting the ongoing oppression faced by black people. This quote serves as a recurring theme throughout the song. Willie D, one of the members of Geto Boys, starts his verse by introducing the song as a message for those who haven't been reached yet. He criticizes the radio for not playing certain music and suggests that this is because black artists are making money and the establishment can't handle it. He questions why rock music, which has violent themes as well, is still allowed to exist while rap music is being targeted. Willie D then goes on to criticize the industry's treatment of Public Enemy, a popular and politically charged rap group. He accuses the industry of selling out to the opposition and claims that Public Enemy did nothing wrong in their music. He also accuses a particular individual, referred to as the "son of a bitch who tripped across Tom," of betraying the black community by exposing information about Public Enemy. He addresses him as Uncle Tom and challenges him to come forward if he wants a confrontation. The chorus, scratched by DJ Ready Red, encourages black men to stand up and speak the truth against the injustice they face. It emphasizes the importance of raising one's voice and not giving in to pressure or being silenced. Scarface, another member of Geto Boys, takes over the mic and reiterates that black people are still not free and that the first commitment of freedom only applied to another race. He praises Public Enemy for their bravery in speaking out and acknowledges that for every voice they try to silence, another one will rise. The song also references the controversy surrounding Professor Griff, a former member of Public Enemy, who made anti-Semitic remarks. Geto Boys stands by Griff and claims that mainstream media was looking for a reason to get Public Enemy out. They accuse those who sold out the black community of being responsible for the struggles black people face. The final verse by Willie D emphasizes the power of the truth and exposes the tactics used to suppress black voices. He criticizes those who sell information to the enemy, reminding listeners of the sacrifices needed to bring about change. He declares his loyalty to Professor Griff and vows not to sell out. The song concludes with DJ Ready Red scratching quotes that reinforce the need for someone to speak the truth and challenge the powers that be. The repeated quote, "The Negro, the Negro still... is not free," serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. Overall, "No Sellout" is a powerful and politically charged song that calls for resistance and the preservation of artistic integrity.
