Verse 1:
Morning light
I wake up knowing things don’t feel right
Used to believe, but now I’m filled with hindsight
You made me set aside my pride
For so long
Had me waiting, felt like time was all gone
Hard to keep going when you’ve been holding on
Wishing I could make it mine, oh
Pre-Chorus:
(If you want it) Yeah
(It’s yours to take it) Oh, oh, oh
(If you need it) Ooh
(We can create it, oh)
If you want it
It’s yours to take it
Chorus:
But stay sharp
People scheming
They’ll find you
Catch you dreaming, ooh
Now stay sharp
People scheming
Don’t you close your eyes
Verse 2:
Too late
You tried to make it right, but it’s too late
Sweet moments lost, I won’t take the bait
I’m trying not to waste my days
Pre-Chorus:
(If you want it) Oh
(It’s yours to take it) It’s yours to take it
(If you need it) You better believe in something
(We can create it, oh)
If you want it
(It’s yours to take it) Ahh!
Chorus:
But stay sharp (Stay sharp)
People scheming (They’re scheming)
They’ll find you (They’ll find you)
Catch you dreaming, ooh (Catch you dreaming, raise your hands now, baby)
Now stay sharp
People scheming
Don’t you close your eyes
But stay sharp (Ooh-ahh)
People scheming (They’ll find you)
They’ll find you
Catch you dreaming, ooh (They’ll catch you, they’ll catch you)
Now stay sharp
People scheming
Don’t you close your eyes
Outro:
How’d it get so twisted?
Oh, how’d it get so twisted?
Oh, oh, baby, you, how did it
How’d it get so twisted?
How’d it get so twisted?
But stay sharp
But stay sharp
Main Theme of the Song
“Redbone” by Childish Gambino is about trust, betrayal, and staying alert in relationships. The phrase “stay woke” advises vigilance against deceit, especially when things seem off.
Verse 1:
Gambino wakes up feeling his partner isn’t trustworthy anymore. He regrets being vulnerable and waiting for things to improve.
Pre-Chorus & Chorus:
He offers a chance to fix things, but warns about staying cautious, as someone might betray you if you’re not careful.
Verse 2:
He realizes it’s too late to save the relationship, using metaphors to describe its incompatibility.
Outro:
He questions how the relationship became so messy, expressing disbelief at the betrayal.
The song’s blend of funk and soul reinforces themes of emotional tension, and its message extends beyond relationships to a broader call for awareness in life.
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Who inspired the sound?
The sound of “Redbone” by Childish Gambino was heavily inspired by 1970s funk, soul, and psychedelic music. Key influences include artists like Prince, Bootsy Collins, Funkadelic, and Parliament. The use of high-pitched vocals, retro basslines, and rich instrumentation reflects the vibe of that era.
Prince’s blend of R&B, funk, and rock is particularly notable in “Redbone,” especially in the way Gambino alters his voice to create a unique, haunting sound. Similarly, Funkadelic and Parliament (led by George Clinton) were known for their cosmic, funky grooves and are also major influences in the song’s production style. These inspirations give “Redbone” its nostalgic, throwback feel while still sounding fresh and modern.
Frequently Asked Question
What is the meaning of “stay woke” in the song?
“Stay woke” means to remain aware and alert, especially to potential deceit or betrayal in relationships.
Who produced “Redbone”?
The song was produced by Childish Gambino (Donald Glover) and his frequent collaborator Ludwig Göransson.
What genre is “Redbone”?
“Redbone” is a mix of funk, soul, and R&B, with a strong influence from 1970s music.
What does “Redbone” refer to?
“Redbone” is a slang term used in African-American culture to describe a light-skinned Black person, but in the song, it can also symbolize someone who stands out.
Why does Gambino use a high-pitched voice in the song?
The altered vocals give the song a dreamlike, retro feel, reminiscent of 70s funk and soul artists, creating a haunting atmosphere.
What is the song about?
It addresses themes of trust, paranoia, and betrayal, focusing on staying vigilant in personal relationships.
Has “Redbone” won any awards?
It was nominated for multiple awards, including the Grammy for Record of the Year, and won Best Traditional R&B Performance at the 2018 Grammys.
Conclusion
“Redbone” by Childish Gambino is a soulful, funk-inspired track that delves into themes of trust, betrayal, and the need for vigilance in relationships. The phrase “stay woke” emphasizes the importance of being alert to potential deceit, while the song’s retro sound and high-pitched vocals pay homage to 1970s funk and soul music, drawing influence from legends like Prince and Parliament-Funkadelic. Through its metaphors and haunting production, “Redbone” warns listeners to remain cautious, blending emotional tension with a broader message of awareness. The song’s unique blend of genres, powerful message, and creative production have made it a standout, earning Gambino critical acclaim and awards recognition.
