Hustler's Prayer
Blackstreet · Finally
I've been hustlin' everyday
Now I know that I should pray
But I wonder if He hear what I'd say
I know my momma didn't raise me this way
But I gotta feed my family
If I could just make it through one more day
I could live the right way
Lord, you know it's been 12-15 years I've been in the game
The way I live this life, forgive me, I know it's a shame
But who'd a thought I'd make it this far
From all the brothers and others that I've lost
I know I'm fortunate not to be one of those souls you choose
And I'm sorry for the ones I sent
Down here is to live or die, what was I suppose to do?
You know I wasn't quite ready
For this soul of mine to come before you
[Repeat 1]
I know I may not have been right but I've been fair
I guess that's why you saw it to keep me here
You must have somethin' better for me
Just give me a sign Lord, please show me
Just wanna thank you for the ones you've placed
I pray you watched over them, cuz you watched over me
Until you clean us up Lord, like we should be
I know you will eventually
[Repeat 1]
Please watch over my babies and they mommas, too
Cuz they don't know what they daddy do
But this one thing, I promise you
I won't let my seeds do the same thing, too
Lord, bless my momma, you know how much she means to me
Despite the way I live, I know she still loves me
She's up in church, cryin' and prayin' for me
And I'mma try to see her there on Sunday, I said maybe
[Repeat 1]
Hustler's Prayer
Released in 1999 on Blackstreet's album Finally, "Hustler's Prayer" stands as a defining track of the late 1990s hip-hop and R&B fusion era. The song features a distinctive blend of soulful vocals and rhythmic beats that became a staple of the genre during that period. Produced by the group's own catalog, the recording captures the essence of the time with its emotive delivery and catchy melody. It remains a significant song in Blackstreet's discography, often cited alongside other hits from the era such as "No Diggity" and "Another Level" for its contribution to the sound of the late nineties. The track has endured as a popular choice for radio play and has been featured in various compilations celebrating the group's legacy.