Hee…
Everybody rise!
[Verse 1]
Flashback to that groove, who’s got the moves?
Suave and smooth, oh, they’re making me groove,
That’s what I said, though you hadn’t seen it yet,
All part of fate, soon to make history, you bet.
[Pre-Chorus]
Don’t doubt, I’ll make it clear,
Let me show you what’s sincere,
From coast to coast, I’ve got the best,
Not here to boast, just to express my Square Biz.
[Chorus]
I’m talking Square Biz to you, baby,
Square, Square Biz,
I’m talking true love,
Square, Square Biz,
I’m talking Square Biz to you, baby,
Square, Square Biz,
I’m talking love that’s real,
That’s Square Biz, that’s Square Biz.
[Verse 2]
So shy, but I had to switch it up fast,
Used a few tricks, with my femme fatale flair,
Phase two, us dancing on a cloud,
I’ll sing it loud, my love’s got you wowed.
[Pre-Chorus]
Don’t doubt, I’ll make it clear,
Let me show you what’s sincere,
From coast to coast, I’ve got the best,
Not here to boast, just to express my Square Biz.
[Chorus]
I’m talking Square Biz to you, baby,
Square, Square Biz,
I’m talking true love,
Square, Square Biz,
I’m talking Square Biz to you, baby,
Square, Square Biz,
I’m talking love that’s real,
That’s Square Biz, that’s Square Biz.
[Post-Chorus]
Square Biz,
Square Biz, Square Biz,
I’m talking love,
Square Biz, Square Biz,
Square Biz, Square Biz,
I’m talking about love.
[Verse 3]
Phase three, on a love-filled spree,
Joy on our faces, sent from above,
Bombs bursting, fireworks all around,
With horns and strings, orchestration is profound.
[Pre-Chorus]
Don’t doubt, I’ll make it clear,
Let me show you what’s sincere,
From coast to coast, I’ve got the best,
Not here to boast, just to express my Square Biz.
[Chorus]
I’m talking Square Biz to you, baby,
Square, Square Biz,
I’m talking true love,
Square, Square Biz,
I’m talking Square Biz to you, baby,
Square, Square Biz,
I’m talking love that’s real,
That’s Square Biz, that’s Square Biz.
[Bridge: Teena Marie & Rick James]
Ooh,
Hey, baby, what’s your name?
(Ladies call me Slick Rick, baby)
Yeah, well, don’t get too slick now.
[Chorus]
I’m talking Square Biz,
Square Biz to you,
I’m talking Square Biz,
Square Biz to you.
[Verse 4]
Baby, what’s happening? This is Lady Tee,
Heard many raps, but none compare to me,
Less than five-foot-one, but full of fun,
Sophisticated funk, living the high life, no pun.
I adore fine things, caviar, filet mignon,
Believe that’s the truth, my taste is strong.
I love spirituals and rock,
Sarah Vaughan, Bach,
Shakespeare, Maya Angelou,
And Nikki Giovanni too, that’s my groove.
Wild and peaceful Lady Tee,
Got to keep my game tight, you see,
I got the deal, the point, the lowdown too,
What you feel, just say it true!
[Refrain]
Flashback, who’s that? (Flashback)
Flashback, who’s that? (Flashback)
[Pre-Chorus]
Don’t doubt, I’ll make it clear,
Let me show you what’s sincere,
From coast to coast, I’ve got the best,
Not here to boast, just to express my Square Biz.
[Chorus]
I’m talking Square Biz to you, baby,
Square, Square Biz,
I’m talking true love,
Square, Square Biz,
I’m talking Square Biz to you, baby,
Square, Square Biz,
I’m talking love that’s real,
That’s Square Biz, that’s Square Biz.
[Outro: Teena Marie & Rick James]
I’m gonna talk about it,
Gonna share my love,
(I’m talking love, that is)
I’m gonna talk about it,
Gonna share my love,
(I’m talking love, that is)
I’m gonna hip you to the Tee,
(What’s the Tee?)
And you know that’s me.
Flashback, who’s that? (Flashback)
Flashback, who’s that? (Flashback)
Flashback, who’s that? (Flashback)
Flashback, who’s that? (Flashback)
I’m gonna talk about it,
Gonna share my love,
(I’m talking love, that is)
Gonna talk about it,
Gonna share my love,
(I’m talking love, that is)
Everybody’s dancing to the Tee,
Jackie, Jill, Mick, and Lady Tee,
We’re talking Square Biz,
Well, everybody’s dancing to the Tee,
Jackie, Jill, Mick, and Lady Tee,
We’re talking Square Biz.
Influence on listeners
The song “Square Biz” by Teena Marie has a multifaceted influence on listeners, shaping their perceptions and emotions in various ways:
Related Post: “Somewhere I Belong”-Lyrics
- Celebration of Authenticity: The recurring theme of “Square Biz” emphasizes honesty and straightforwardness. For listeners, this can be a refreshing reminder to value and express genuine feelings and intentions. The message encourages people to embrace their true selves and communicate openly.
- Empowerment and Confidence: Teena Marie’s confident delivery and lyrics about her own unique style and talents can inspire listeners to feel empowered and confident in their own lives. The song’s celebration of individuality and self-assurance can be motivating and uplifting.
- Cultural Connection: The song references various cultural and musical icons, blending elements of funk, R&B, and early rap. This not only serves as a tribute to these influences but also helps listeners appreciate the rich tapestry of musical and cultural history.
- Emotional Engagement: The lively and upbeat nature of the song, coupled with its catchy chorus and engaging beat, can evoke a range of emotions from joy and excitement to nostalgia. This emotional engagement enhances the song’s appeal and makes it memorable.
Overall, “Square Biz” influences its listeners by celebrating authenticity, encouraging confidence, and connecting them with cultural and musical history.
Read this also: And This is just the intro lyrics
Frequently Asked Question
What is the main theme of “Square Biz”?
The main theme of “Square Biz” is authenticity and straightforwardness. The song emphasizes being true to oneself and expressing genuine feelings.
When was “Square Biz” released?
“Square Biz” was released in 1981 as the lead single from Teena Marie’s album “It Must Be Magic”.
What genre does “Square Biz” belong to?
The song blends elements of funk, R&B, and early rap.
How did “Square Biz” perform on the charts?
The song reached number 3 on the Billboard R&B chart and number 50 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Who are some of the musical influences mentioned in the song?
The song references various cultural and musical icons, including spirituals, rock, Sarah Vaughan, Johann Sebastian Bach, Shakespeare, Maya Angelou, and Nikki Giovanni.
What is the significance of the phrase “Square Biz”?
“Square Biz” refers to being straightforward and honest. In the context of the song, it signifies clear and genuine communication.
Is there a notable feature in the song?
Yes, the song includes a rap verse, which was relatively uncommon for female artists in mainstream music at the time.
Conclusion
“Square Biz” by Teena Marie is a vibrant celebration of authenticity and self-expression, blending funk, R&B, and early rap. Released in 1981, the song achieved notable chart success and remains influential for its confident, genuine message and its innovative musical style. It highlights the importance of being true to oneself and connects listeners to the cultural and musical landscape of the early 80s.
