Homeboy
JoJo · JoJo [2004]
We came up on the south side
Where you had to beat the street lights home
We got into some street fights
But the next day we be right back at it (oh)
Remember, there was me, there was you
And we were like crew
Straight to junior high school
Then you messed it all up
Started pushing up
Kissed me on the cheek
And I fell in love
Shorty's a little taller now
Into big things, he's a balla' now (now)
His heart never changed
I can see he's still down
I can't forget him (No no no no)
More than his voice is changing now
All that I see is rearranging now (now)
It just ain't the same
Catchin' feelings now (yeah yeah)
I should tell him (yeah)
[chorus]
Ooh, when the boy next door (next door)
Don't want to be my homeboy no more
Saw something that I ain't never saw before
I think he wants to be my baby, baby (my baby)
I waited all my life (my life)
Now I see him in a whole new light (oh oh oh oh oh oh)
Something about it feels so right (that's why)
I think he wants to be my baby, baby
Every night when we get home
Undercovers, talking on the phone
Here comes my mother
It's way too late
Might get in trouble
My heart can't wait (so much to say)
Writing till my hand cramps up
Four pages saying, I'm in love (I got a crush)
Can't get you off my mind (come pick me up, baby)
I'm sure I'll be fine, when I look into your eyes
Shorty's a little taller now
Into big things, he's a balla' now (now)
His heart never changed
I can see he's still down
I can't forget him (oh no no no no no no)
More than his voice is changing now
All that I see is rearranging now
It just ain't the same
Catchin' feelings now (yeah yeah)
I should tell him (gotta tell him that I love him)
[chorus]
Ooh, when the boy next door (next door)
Don't want to be my homeboy no more
Saw something that I ain't never saw before
I think he wants to be my baby, baby
I waited all my life (my life)
Now I see him in a whole new light
Something about it feels so right (that's why)
I think he wants to be my baby, baby
Chocolate-covered candy kisses
They keep me reminiscing
All I want is what you're giving
Nothing like your affection
So in love and you're the reason
There's no more lonely season
Lately boy, you drive me crazy
Think I wanna be your baby
[repeat]
Oh-we-oh
Oh oh oh (don't wanna be my homeboy no more)
Oh-we-oh-we-oh-we-oh
Oh oh oh
Oh-we-oh-we-oh-we-oh
Oh oh oh
Oh-we-oh-we-oh-we-oh (why why why why why)
My homeboy wants to be my baby, be my baby, be my baby
Oh-we-oh
Oh oh oh (he don't wanna be my homeboy no more)
Oh-we-oh-we-oh-we-oh
Oh oh oh
Oh-we-oh-we-oh-we-oh (no more)
Oh oh oh
Oh-we-oh-we-oh-we-oh (said he)
My homeboy wants to be my baby, be my baby, be my baby
(Wants to be my baby now, now, now now now)
Homeboy
JoJo's "Homeboy" stands as a defining track from the 2004 album of the same name, capturing the vibrant energy of early 2000s English hip-hop. Released during a period when the artist was establishing a distinct sound that blended R&B sensibilities with gritty street narratives, the song exemplifies the genre's shift toward more melodic yet authentic storytelling. The recording features a production style characteristic of the era, utilizing crisp beats that complement JoJo's smooth vocal delivery and introspective lyricism. As part of her broader discography, "Homeboy" reflects the cultural landscape of the mid-2000s, resonating with audiences who appreciated the intersection of pop hooks and urban authenticity. It remains a notable song in her catalog, showcasing her ability to craft songs that balance commercial appeal with genuine emotional depth.