"You're a Jerk" (CD single) (by New Boyz, Hip-hop)

YOU'RE A JERK is the debut track from New Boyz -- an L.A.-based rap/hip-hop duo consisting of teens Ben J and Legacy. The Boyz created the tune to correspond with "jerkin'," the street dance craze that combines a little bit of footwork with a lot of knee bends and jerky movements. The song's title is a double entendre, referring to both the dance style as well as the main character: a guy who acts like a player by repeatedly loving and leaving his girl. In the typical style of many rap and hip hop songs, the lyrics in "You're a Jerk" make it seem cool for guys to treat girls disrespectfully: "So I did it, it was good / And I quickly got dressed / She was like, 'Where you goin'?' / And I had nothing to say but sorry that it hurts."

"You're a Jerk" is undeniably danceable: the drum machine and synth-line make for a strong hook that's great for jerkin' (or plenty of other dance styles). Ben J and Legacy give good performances, delivering their rhymes with a smooth lilt that fits with the track's "I'm a player" message. The downside to this song is the "you're a jerk" refrain that repeats throughout in a high, fast-forward tone that becomes seriously annoying after a few listens. 

Released on: April 22, 2009
Label: Atlantic
Genre: Hip-hop