Released July 13, 2004 Recorded 2004 | Format Maxi single Genre Political hip hop | |
Label Ruff Ryders, Interscope Writer(s) J. Phillips, A. Hamilton, K. Muchita, P. Moerlen | ||
"Why" is a protest song by the rapper Jadakiss, the 1st single released from his 2nd solo album Kiss of Death. It was produced by Havoc. It was a crossover hit in several countries. The song ranked #64 in About.com's Top 100 Rap Songs. The remix produced by Elite with a new chorus was later released featuring Anthony Hamilton, Styles P, Common and Nas. Another remix was released, titled "Why 2K7", featuring the rapper Lil' Wayne. This remix is available on DJ 007's Beast of the East, a collaboration mixtape with Fabolous and Jadakiss.
Contents
Although not a remix nor a sequel, Jadakiss released the song "What If" that almost follows the same concept as "Why". All of the verses start with the latter title. It included Nas (who - as mentioned above - was featured in the remix of "Why").
Controversy
Jadakiss attracted some controversy and condemnation from the political commentator Bill O'Reilly, who labeled him a "smear merchant" because of the lyrics in the song, which state Jada's belief that George W. Bush co-ordinated the September 11 attacks:
"Why do niggas push pounds of powder?/Why did Bush knock down the towers?"
"Bush" is censored in clean versions of the song. The music video shows a man holding up a picket sign reading "BUCK FUSH" - a spoonerism of "FUCK BUSH".
O'Reilly took the position that the President should be allowed to sue Jadakiss for slander. The track was eventually banned on some radio stations or played with the lyrics in question censored.
Track listing
- "Why" (album version)
- "Why" Remix feat. Kool Savas
- "Kiss of Death" (main version)
- "The Champ Is Here" (explicit version)
- "Why" (video)