by Alex Harris – 28th January, 2024 – Neon Music

My cmnt: I downloaded this from iTunes ($1.29) to support the artists. You can hear it for free below but still download it to support the artists.

Canadian rapper Tom MacDonald teamed up with political commentator Ben Shapiro in a striking collaboration that shook the music industry. The song, aptly titled FACTS, stirred up quite a storm, making its mark as a number-one hit on iTunes and becoming a hot topic of discussion across various social media platforms. In this article, we delve into the lyrics, the meaning, and the impact of this unconventional rap collaboration.

THE ARTISTS BEHIND THE SONG

A controversial figure, Tom MacDonald, the lyricist and producer of FACTS, has made a name for himself as a fiercely independent artist. Known for his thought-provoking lyrics, MacDonald often challenges societal norms, sparking debates with his polarising views.

Ben Shapiro, the co-artist of FACTS, is a well-known figure in the political and media landscape. As the editor-in-chief of The Daily Wire and host of The Ben Shapiro Show, Shapiro is no stranger to controversy. His venture into the world of rap was a surprise to many, making this collaboration all the more intriguing.

THE BIRTH OF FACTS

The idea for FACTS was first floated during an interview between MacDonald and Shapiro in May 2023. The resulting song was released on January 26, 2024, showcasing a unique fusion of rap and political commentary that quickly gained traction.

THE LYRICS OF FACTS

The lyrics of FACTS stand as a testament to MacDonald’s and Shapiro’s shared perspectives on contemporary issues. The song challenges mainstream ideologies, calling out what the artists perceive as hypocrisy within the societal narrative.

The song kicks off with MacDonald questioning the prevalent political correctness with lines such as “They call me offensive, controversial”, and “I don’t wanna talk to folks who don’t get it.” MacDonald doesn’t shy away from discussing controversial topics, such as gender and race, often sparking polarising discussions.

The pre-chorus of the song becomes a critique of mainstream rap culture, with lyrics like “This ain’t rap, this ain’t money, cars, and clothes” and “We ain’t pushing guns, ain’t promoting stripper poles.” The artists position themselves as an alternative to the conventional rap narrative, promoting a different kind of message.

BEN SHAPIRO’S RAP DEBUT

Shapiro’s rap debut in FACTS was unexpected, to say the least. Known for his conservative views and political commentary, Shapiro isn’t the typical figure you’d find in a rap video. Yet, his verses in the song were well-received, with lines like “Let’s look at the stats; I’ve got the facts” and “My money like Lizzo, my pockets are fat” showcasing his lyrical prowess.

THE IMPACT OF FACTS

The release of FACTS created a significant buzz on social media, with the song quickly climbing to the top of the iTunes charts. Fans and critics alike were taken aback by this unlikely collaboration, with many sharing their reactions online.

Social media users were quick to react to the song, tagging famous rappers like Eminem, Snoop Dogg, and Megan Thee Stallion with humorous threats that Shapiro was coming for their careers. The buzz generated by FACTS was undeniable, contributing to its rapid rise in the charts.

Within three hours of its release, the music video for FACTS had amassed over 3 million views on YouTube. The song also climbed to the top of the iTunes charts, outdoing songs by popular artists such as Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, and Nicki Minaj. Shapiro’s playful jabs at these artists on social media further fueled the song’s popularity.

THE MEANING OF FACTS

The song FACTS serves as a commentary on various social and political issues. The artists use their platform to question societal norms and challenge mainstream narratives, making the song a bold statement in the music industry.

One of the key themes in the song is the critique of identity politics. The artists question the binary labels often assigned to individuals based on their race, gender, or political ideology, suggesting that such labels are often reductive and oversimplified.

The song also takes a swipe at mainstream media narratives, with the artists asserting their own perspectives on controversial topics. They challenge the portrayal of certain issues in the media, arguing for a more nuanced understanding.

THE LEGACY OF FACTS

FACTS Tom MacDonald Featuring Ben Shapiro have left a lasting impact on the music industry. The song’s success reflects a growing appetite for music that challenges conventional narratives and stimulates thought-provoking conversations. As the song continues to be a hot topic of discussion, it’s clear that FACTS has carved out its own unique space in the music landscape.

FACTS by Tom MacDonald Featuring Ben Shapiro is more than just a song; it’s a statement. With its unconventional lyrics and thought-provoking themes, the song challenges listeners to question their own perspectives and engage in meaningful conversations. This bold collaboration between MacDonald and Shapiro has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the music industry.