The song "Holy Ghost" by Joell Ortiz is a reflection on the rapper's personal experiences and his journey in life. The lyrics touch on various themes such as faith, struggle, perseverance, and the corrupt nature of the world. In the beginning of the song, Joell Ortiz talks about the challenges he has faced and how he has emerged from being stagnant ("comatose") to finding his purpose. He mentions the book of Moses and compares his journey to a flood, symbolizing a cleansing and restoration of order. Joell Ortiz expresses his skepticism towards the insincere and fake individuals he encounters in the music industry and in life. He emphasizes that he stays true to himself and doesn't engage in inappropriate behavior, highlighting his integrity and authenticity. The lyrics also reference the idea of impermanence and materialism, suggesting that nothing lasts forever and everything can be bought. Joell Ortiz acknowledges that some people may acquire things they don't deserve, but he remains focused on something deeper than superficial desires. The rapper describes his eyes having witnessed both beauty and disturbance, perhaps alluding to the harsh realities of life that he has experienced. He mentions being affected by drug use and senseless violence. Joell Ortiz briefly mentions his upbringing, comparing himself to the character Tre in the movie "Boyz n the Hood," who is determined to overcome adversity and fight back. He implies that he is determined to make a lasting impact and not let his past define him. The lyrics also touch upon societal issues such as police brutality and the fear associated with it. The line about being more afraid of a badge than a weapon suggests a lack of trust and the need for vigilance. In the second verse, Joell Ortiz reflects on his faith and the role it plays in his life. He considers himself to be a strong believer in Christianity and feels a close connection to God. He mentions the challenges he faces, both physically and spiritually, and how they have shaped him. The rapper alludes to the teachings of Fred Hampton, a prominent figure in the Black Panther Party, emphasizing the importance of his principles and the fight for justice. He sees himself as a representation of true humanity and is willing to sacrifice for peace, drawing a parallel to the sacrifices made by influential individuals like Huey P. Newton, a co-founder of the Black Panther Party. Joell Ortiz acknowledges his resilience and his ability to withstand the attempts made on his life. He views the music industry as crooked and compares it to scoliosis, a condition that causes abnormal curvature of the spine. He further emphasizes his knowledge and experience in navigating the industry, likening it to the skill of participating in the game of Double Dutch. The lyrics conclude with a reference to "killers" who used to engage in illegal activities but have now moved on. The comparison to karaoke notes implies that these individuals have left behind their past mistakes and are now singing a different tune. Overall, "Holy Ghost" by Joell Ortiz is a introspective song filled with personal experiences, societal observations, and reflections on faith. It portrays the rapper's resilience and determination to remain true to himself and his beliefs despite the challenges he faces.
