Hey guys! Ever heard a song that just sticks with you, makes you think, and maybe even changes the way you see the world? For me, one of those songs is definitely "What Would You Do?" by City High. Released back in 2001, this track wasn't just another hit single; it was a raw, emotional, and thought-provoking exploration of social issues that still resonate today. So, let's dive deep into what makes this song so special, its impact, and why it continues to be relevant.

The Story Behind the Song

"What Would You Do?" wasn't just some random song thrown together by a record label. It was born from real-life experiences and observations. City High, consisting of Robbie Pardlo and Claudette Ortiz, aimed to create music that reflected the realities of urban life. The song tackles difficult subjects like poverty, drug abuse, and moral dilemmas, presenting them in a way that's both relatable and impactful. The lyrics paint vivid pictures of scenarios, forcing listeners to confront uncomfortable truths. The group aimed to make people think about the choices they make and how those choices affect others. It was about sparking conversation and encouraging empathy. It's about questioning societal norms and understanding the struggles of those less fortunate. The emotional depth and the social consciousness of the track gave it a distinct appeal that separated it from the mainstream music of the time. Furthermore, the song's release coincided with a period of increased social awareness and activism, which helped to amplify its message and reach a wider audience. The group believed in the power of music to inspire change. The fusion of hip-hop and R&B in "What Would You Do?" created a sound that was both catchy and meaningful, broadening its potential audience and ensuring its longevity in the cultural landscape. The members of City High wanted to use their platform to shed light on issues that were often ignored or marginalized in mainstream media. Their approach to songwriting was deeply rooted in their personal experiences and observations, giving their music an authenticity that resonated with listeners. The song's impact was further amplified by its powerful music video, which visually depicted the scenarios described in the lyrics, adding another layer of emotional depth and social commentary. By creating art that reflected reality, City High sought to challenge listeners to confront their own biases and assumptions and to consider the perspectives of others.

Lyrical Breakdown: Diving into the Details

Okay, let's get into the nitty-gritty of the lyrics. "What Would You Do?" presents three distinct scenarios, each posing a moral question. The first verse tells the story of a young mother struggling with poverty who considers prostitution to provide for her child. The second verse deals with a man contemplating drug dealing as a means to escape his financial hardships. The final verse touches on a corrupt police officer who is tempted to abuse his power. Each verse ends with the haunting question: "What would you do?" This refrain forces the listener to step into the shoes of the characters and consider their options. The song doesn't offer easy answers. It doesn't judge the characters for their choices. Instead, it presents their situations with empathy and understanding. The beauty of the lyrics lies in their ability to humanize these individuals, showing them not as stereotypes, but as people facing impossible decisions. The question “What would you do?” is powerful, but the song isn’t preachy. The song does not offer solutions. It presents the situation, lets you think about it, and leaves you to arrive at your own conclusion. This is one of the reasons why the song is still so impactful to this day. Listeners are encouraged to engage in critical thinking about complex issues. The group intentionally wanted the listeners to be part of the conversation. In addition to the core scenarios, the song also touches on broader themes of social inequality and systemic injustice. The lyrics subtly critique the structures and institutions that contribute to the characters' struggles, suggesting that individual choices are often shaped by larger social forces. This adds a layer of depth to the song, inviting listeners to consider the root causes of these problems and to question the systems that perpetuate them.

The Impact and Reception

When "What Would You Do?" dropped, it wasn't just another song on the radio; it sparked conversations. The song’s lyrics sparked a lot of debate. People were discussing the scenarios, sharing their opinions, and questioning their own values. It climbed the charts, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, and garnered critical acclaim for its honest portrayal of social issues. However, it wasn't without its critics. Some found the subject matter too controversial or uncomfortable. Others felt that the song oversimplified complex problems. Despite the criticism, the song's impact was undeniable. It opened up a dialogue about poverty, drug abuse, and police corruption. It challenged listeners to confront their own biases and assumptions. It also provided a platform for marginalized voices to be heard. Many people connected with the song because they had faced similar struggles or knew someone who had. The song’s success was due to its ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level. The raw, honest lyrics and relatable scenarios resonated with listeners from all walks of life. It was played on radio stations across the country and became a staple of urban contemporary music. The song's popularity also led to numerous covers and remixes, further extending its reach and influence. Its message continued to resonate with audiences, reminding them of the importance of empathy, understanding, and social justice.

Why It Still Matters Today

Okay, so why are we even talking about a song from 2001? Because the themes explored in "What Would You Do?" are still incredibly relevant today. Poverty, drug abuse, and police brutality continue to be pressing issues in our society. The song serves as a reminder that these problems are not abstract concepts, but real-life struggles faced by real people. It urges us to consider the human cost of these issues and to think critically about the systems that perpetuate them. The song also highlights the importance of empathy and understanding. In a world that often feels divided and polarized, it reminds us that we need to listen to each other's stories and to try to see the world from different perspectives. The song's message is timeless. It speaks to the core values of compassion, justice, and equality. Its ability to resonate across generations is a testament to its power and its enduring relevance. City High's "What Would You Do" continues to be a powerful reminder of the challenges facing our society and the importance of working towards a more just and equitable world for all.

Personal Reflections

I still remember the first time I heard "What Would You Do?" on the radio. I was a teenager, and the song really made me think about the world in a different way. It wasn't just a catchy tune; it was a wake-up call. It challenged my assumptions and forced me to confront uncomfortable truths. I think that's the power of music. It can move us, inspire us, and change us. "What Would You Do?" did all of those things for me. It made me more aware of the struggles of others, and it motivated me to become more involved in my community. It also taught me the importance of empathy and understanding. We can make a difference in the world by simply listening to each other's stories and trying to see things from different perspectives. “What Would You Do?” is more than just a song, it’s a lesson on life.

Conclusion

City High's "What Would You Do?" is more than just a song; it's a cultural artifact. It's a reminder of the power of music to spark conversations, challenge assumptions, and inspire change. Its themes are still relevant today, and its message of empathy and understanding is more important than ever. So, the next time you hear this song, take a moment to really listen to the lyrics. Consider the questions it raises and think about how you would respond. Because in the end, it's up to all of us to create a more just and equitable world. What would you do?