"Q & A" by Joell Ortiz is a song in which the artist addresses various topics and expresses his thoughts and opinions. The song begins with the chorus emphasizing that it is a personal and intimate conversation between the artist and the listener. In the first verse, Ortiz criticizes the current state of hip-hop, referring to it as a "dumb version" and expressing his uncertainty about its direction. He also comments on the changing fashion trends and criticizes those who conform to societal expectations. Ortiz highlights his authenticity as a rapper, proclaiming himself as a "thoroughbred" from his hometown of Brooklyn. The chorus is repeated, emphasizing the personal nature of the song and Ortiz's intention to speak his mind. In the second verse, Ortiz reflects on his time spent working with his group Slaughterhouse, but ultimately decides to return to working on his own. He mentions his fashion choices and asserts his disapproval of homophobia. Ortiz then shares a personal experience of getting into a fight and losing, which led him to make positive changes in his life, such as quitting drinking and taking care of his health. He also mentions engaging in street activities, such as making someone marry another person while in prison. Ortiz continues to assert his authenticity in the rap game, explaining that he does not need flashy jewelry or trendy fashion to make quality music. He highlights his ability to deliver clean and skillful rap verses, referencing his weight loss journey and expressing his lyrical prowess. The final verse exhibits Ortiz's lyrical skill as he delivers rapid-fire rhymes and boasts about his abilities as a rapper. He mentions his complex wordplay and his confidence in outshining his competition. Ortiz dismisses his doubters and asserts his superiority, alluding to his ability to overpower and defeat his opponents. He ends the verse with a bold statement about his success, stating that he doesn't need to chase pop hits because his music makes money on its own. Overall, "Q & A" serves as a platform for Joell Ortiz to express his thoughts, assert his authenticity as a rapper, and showcase his lyrical skills.
