"Tell It Like It Is" by UB40 is a song that highlights the importance of being honest and straightforward in various aspects of life. The lyrics emphasize the need to speak the truth and not be deceived or manipulated by others. The chorus repeats the phrase "I sus' a tell it like it is," suggesting a Jamaican dialect to express the straightforwardness and authenticity in their message. The line "Jus' like I know 1 + 1 no make 9" further emphasizes the importance of logical thinking and not accepting false information. The song begins by discussing the necessity of being blatant in arguments. It highlights how politicians lie on television, trying to deceive the public while collecting large sums of money through licensing fees. The lyrics express the need to be aware and not let oneself be fooled. The next verse continues the theme of being blatant in various situations. It mentions the importance of patenting inventions to ensure proper recognition and financial compensation. Additionally, if someone is involved in a car accident that wasn't their fault, they need to be clear and straightforward about the situation to avoid unnecessary expenses. The final verse delves into a more serious aspect of being blatant, particularly in encounters with the police. The lyrics suggest that the artist has experienced harassment from the police, who question their actions without cause. The verse also mentions the police brutality in South Africa, where innocent people are killed by live ammunition. This serves as an example of blatant murder that should be addressed. Overall, "Tell It Like It Is" encourages honesty, directness, and standing up for the truth in various aspects of life, including politics, business, and encounters with authority.
