"Dead and Gone" (CD single) (by T.I., Hip-hop)

common sense media says

Rapper uses brutal imagery in call to end street violence.

parents & educators say

33% say language is an issue

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that even though violent imagery and explicit language pervades this song, the message is admirable. T.I. raps about how people easily fall victim to urban violence. But he doesn't glamorize this lifestyle; instead he tells listeners that you can turn your back on this way of life and be responsible and thoughtful in your actions.The video for this song includes some violent scenes along with symbols of death like gravestones and cemetery gates.

Positive messages: The usual "gangsta" themes of fighting, gambling, shooting and just generally breaking the law, surface here. But instead of glamorizing this behavior, this song shows why it's uncool to act irresponsibly.

Violence: The song is all about escaping from the circle of urban violence and details specific scenarios that explain how easy it can be to fall victim to gun violence. "N----s die everyday,
all over bulls--t, dope money, dice game, ordinary hood s--t...Usually n----s don't know what to do

when their backs against the wall so they just start shootin'."

Sex: Not applicable.

Language: "S-t" is the prominent expletive in this song, used a total of ten times. F--k and the N-word can also be heard several times.

Consumerism: Not applicable.

Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Indirect references to "dope money" and "smokin'."

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What to talk about

Talk to your kids

Families can talk about how rappers can use violent imagery to get a point across. T.I. raps in this song about turning his back on street violence and leading a responsible, mature life. Do you think this message is hurt by his own criminal behavior? Also do you think it is confusing for a rapper to sing about non-violence in one song and then in another song promote a "gangsta" lifestyle?

What's the story?

Justin Timberlake repays a favor to T.I. with the single DEAD AND GONE. T.I. appeared with Timberlake on his album FutureSex/LoveSounds and now the former N-Sync-er collaborates with the rapper on this single which appears on T.I.'s hit album Paper Trail. The duo performed this song at the 51st Grammy Awards and the single has achieved much success, appearing on the top of download charts and even charting before its official release. Although the title sounds dismal, the song really isn't about death, but rebirth, as the song recounts how someone can leave the gangsta game.

Is it any good?

With their voices naturally complementing one another, T.I. and Justin Timberlake make sweet music together on this single. With an unforgettable chorus and rap, this single is both powerful and still groove-able. It's refreshing to listen to a rapper dis the swagger and be proud to show humility: "Got enough dead homies I don't want no more."

Music themes & details

Music Details

Released on: September 30, 2008
Label: Atlantic
Genre: Hip-hop
Parental advisory: Yes
Edited version available: Yes

This review was written by Jacqueline Rupp

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What parents & educators say

Based on 9 parent & educator reviews:

33% say language is an issue

Read the reviews

Most useful reviews by all members

jakek6
teen, 15 years old

Good song for older kids.

This song is good. I actually love this song. BUT. I don't think you want around your kids if they're under the age of maybe 14. 13 can be somewhat acceptable, if you think that your 13 year old is maturing. Its very violent. It has a lot of violent terms in it. It swears, using s*** f*** and n****.

What other families should know

Music Details

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"Dead and Gone" (CD single) (by T.I., Hip-hop)

common sense media says

parents & educators say

What parents need to know

More on "Dead and Gone" (CD single)

What to talk about

Talk to your kids

What's the story?

What's the story?

Is it any good?

Is it any good?

Music themes & details

Music Details

Review It

Review "Dead and Gone" (CD single)

What parents & educators say

Most useful reviews by all members

Good song for older kids.

If its the radio edited version this is agreat song

POTENTIAL LIFE CHANGER

sexy

Good Song

I can listen to "Dead and Gone"!

Rough rhymes mixed with life lessons in new album from T.I

Best rap song since 2pac and My Block!!

I LIKE THE SONG

Love it

Live Your Life (cd single)

good song

from your #1 fan

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