The Meaning of Lyfe

From a rough life, to a ten year stay in jail, to releasing a progressive album deliniates the story of ups and downs presented by Lyfe Jennings on his debut album “Lyfe 268-192,” This album was released last year in August of 2004 by Colombia Records. Some people might remember him as the five time champ at the famous Apollo, who walked out with a huge coat and an acoustic guitar. The first reaction from the crowd is the same reaction most people would have when they hear his voice and his music. No one really expects such a sweet sounding voice to come out of his rough exterior. Both his music and look make him a cross between fellow musicians Anthony Hamilton and Jahiem. The numbers in his album title are actually the number he was assigned while he served ten years in prison on an arson charge. Jennings pulls inspiration not only from his stay in prison but from all aspects of everyday life. His album is a breakdown of what life actually is, with songs that take you through life’s many stages. His music is about what’s missing from life, what makes life hard, and the parts of life that keep you going. His lyrics are honest, poignant, and motivating. Jennings breathes new life into the R&B/Neo-Soul genre. Songs such as “Hypothetically,” “She Got Kids,” and “Greedy” are songs that signify bumpy roads in relationships or the things that make life hard. “Must Be Nice,” and “The Way I Feel About You” are songs that show appreciation for the things in life that keep you going. His songs make it easy to relate to and sympathize with his struggles. People who don’t necessarily relate or feel sympathetic will at least have a greater understanding of scenarios he sings about.
It’s definitely not a coincidence that someone who names themselves “Lyfe” has such a strong understanding of what life is, what life is could to be, and what life should be. This album deserves so much more airplay than it gets.