DON’T LIE TO YOURSELF 💯
Authentic African-American Vernacular English (AAVE) vocal delivery. Use a laid-back, conversational flow with rhythmic cadence. The mood should be confident and soulful. Lyrics & Vocals: The lyrics and vocal performance must reflect key features of AAVE grammar and pronunciation. For example: use of habitual "be" (e.g., "he be working"), zero copula (e.g., "she Ø real cool"), monophthongization (e.g., "ah" for "I"), and vocabulary like "finna," "cap," or "drip". The voice should be natural, not robotic. Instrumental: Smooth synth melody, deep 808 bass, crisp hi-hats, and a slow-burning groove around 100-110 BPM. Add subtle vocal samples or ad-libs.
DON’T LIE TO YOURSELF 💯
Authentic African-American Vernacular English (AAVE) vocal delivery. Use a laid-back, conversational flow with rhythmic cadence. The mood should be confident and soulful. Lyrics & Vocals: The lyrics and vocal performance must reflect key features of AAVE grammar and pronunciation. For example: use of habitual "be" (e.g., "he be working"), zero copula (e.g., "she Ø real cool"), monophthongization (e.g., "ah" for "I"), and vocabulary like "finna," "cap," or "drip". The voice should be natural, not robotic. Instrumental: Smooth synth melody, deep 808 bass, crisp hi-hats, and a slow-burning groove around 100-110 BPM. Add subtle vocal samples or ad-libs.
Lyrics
Intro — spoken, very calm
Easy…
Listen to me.
Section 1 — mirror
You say it’s love.
You always do.
You say he didn’t mean it.
You say it’s just a phase.
Mantra — first appearance
Don’t lie to yourself.
This is not love.
Section 2 — rationalization
A bruise on your arm?
You say it’s nothing.
Marks on your neck?
You call it passion.
You smile.
You explain.
Mantra — steady, low
Don’t lie to yourself.
This is not love.
Section 3 — clarity
Love doesn’t leave marks.
Love doesn’t need excuses.
Love doesn’t hurt you
and call it care.
Section 4 — quiet truth
I know that voice.
The one inside.
The one that says:
“Stay.”
Mantra — slower, heavier
Don’t lie to yourself.
This is not love.
Outro — almost whispered
Tell the truth…
just to yourself.
That’s enough.
(music fades, unresolved)