Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)
The Isley Brothers · Other Songs - The Isley Brothers
dah, dah, dah, dah, dah, dah, dah
Dah, dah, dah, dah
Dah, dah, dah, dah, dah, dah, dah
Dah, dah, dah
Rockets, moon shots
Spend it on the have nots
Money, we make it
Fore we see it you take it
Oh, make you wanna holler
The way they do my life
Make me wanna holler
The way they do my life
This ain't livin', This ain't livin'
No, no baby, this ain't livin'
No, no, no
Inflation no chance
To increase finance
Bills pile up sky high
Send that boy off to die
Oh, make me wanna holler
The way they do my life
Make me wanna holler
The way they do my life
Dah, dah, dah
Dah, dah, dah
Hang ups, let downs
Bad breaks, set backs
Natural fact is
I can't pay my taxes
Oh, make me wanna holler
And throw up both my hands
Yea, it makes me wanna holler
And throw up both my hands
Crime is increasing
Trigger happy policing
Panic is spreading
God knows where we're heading
Oh, make me wanna holler
They don't understand
Dah, dah, dah
Dah, dah, dah
Dah, dah, dah
Mother, mother
Everybody thinks we're wrong
Who are they to judge us
Simply cause we wear our hair long
Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)
The Isley Brothers' 1977 track 'Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)' stands as a defining example of funk and soul from the late 1970s. Recorded during a period when the group was transitioning from their earlier R&B roots to a more polished, orchestral sound, the song features the distinctive vocal harmonies and rhythmic drive characteristic of their catalog. The title references the band's earlier work, 'Inner City Blues,' but this recording introduces a new, more aggressive musical arrangement that captures the energy of the era. It remains a staple of funk compilations and is frequently cited for its intricate guitar work and the group's ability to blend emotional depth with danceable grooves. The song reflects the Isley Brothers' continued evolution as a musical force, showcasing their signature blend of soulful vocals and sophisticated production.