Skanking On Broadway

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of someone chasing big dreams, specifically "skankin' on Broadway" and aiming for Hollywood. This pursuit, however, is framed as potentially hollow. The repeated assertion that "if you don't plant a corn, what you want to do is just not good" suggests a core principle: ambition without foundational effort or genuine substance is ultimately fruitless. The narrator seems to be cautioning against a superficial approach to success. The central tension lies between the allure of grand aspirations and the necessity of grounded action. The phrase "skankin' on Broadway" itself evokes a sense of carefree, perhaps even reckless, movement in a place associated with performance and ambition. Yet, this energetic movement is juxtaposed with the stark reality that without "plant[ing] a corn" – a metaphor for sowing seeds, putting in work, or establishing something real – these dreams might lead nowhere. The lyrics question the value of striving if the effort lacks genuine roots or purpose. The most striking element is the contrast between the vibrant, almost frantic, image of "skankin' on Broadway" and the grounded, agricultural metaphor of "plant[ing] a corn." This juxtaposition highlights the disconnect between the desired outcome and the required process. The narrator also introduces a spiritual or philosophical dimension, asking "Will there really be a tomorrow?" and urging to "give Jah praise," implying that true fulfillment comes from acknowledging deeper truths and expressing gratitude, not just from chasing external validation. Ultimately, the effectiveness of these lyrics stems from their directness and the relatable tension between aspiration and action. The repetition of "skankin' on Broadway" hammers home the central image, while the simple, recurring advice about planting corn serves as a memorable, almost proverbial, warning. The inclusion of spiritual elements adds a layer of depth, suggesting that true success is intertwined with gratitude and a connection to something larger than oneself, making the message resonate beyond mere career ambition.