The House
Ice T · O.G. Original Gangster [1991]
Where the kids are
and every day
They seem to have a new scar
Something strange is going on
And everybody knows
Doors always shut
Windows always closed
The little girl had a burn
The boy was black and blue
They said it came from play
You know that shit ain't true
The boy's arm's broke
Girl's scared to speak
Their parents drink all day
Couple of dead beats
Some days they go to school
And other days they might
It's hard to stay awake
After you cry all night
You see 'em every daay
Tear tracks on their cheeks
But they will never tell
It goes on weeks and weeks
(But what can they do?
They're only children man!)
You ain't no fuckin' kid
Act like you give a damn!
Won't someone save these kids
Do something, call a cop
The other night I heard gun shots!
The House
Ice-T's "The House" stands as a defining track from his landmark 1991 album, O.G. Original Gangster. This recording captures the rapper at the height of his early career, blending gritty street narratives with the polished production values that characterized the era. As a cornerstone of his discography, the song exemplifies Ice-T's ability to articulate the realities of urban life through a distinct, commanding vocal delivery. The track remains a significant song in his body of work, showcasing the artistic maturity that solidified his status as a pioneer in hip-hop. It reflects the broader themes of resilience and identity found throughout the album, offering listeners a direct connection to the cultural landscape of the early 1990s without relying on fleeting trends.