Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: funk
Song Meaning of “Incarcerated” by X-Raided
“Incarcerated” by X-Raided is an intense song about recognizing one’s identity even in the face of a life sentence in prison. In the song, X-Raided speaks candidly about his personal experience with the judicial system, highlighting the internal and external constraints imposed on Black men in the inner city. He paints a vivid picture of the physical and metaphorical prison he’s locked up inside, and the agonizing realities of living day after day with no refuge in sight.
The lyrics draw attention to the senselessness of his incarceration and its effects on his life. He speaks of being stripped away from his sense of self and unable to fulfill his potential, no matter how hard he works. X-Raided makes a conscious effort to set himself apart from the stereotypes and judgements that came with his past, instead focusing on his inner strength and own personal dignity.
The song serves as a powerful reflection of the daily struggle of Black men stuck in the prison system, and of the perseverance needed in order to maintain one’s own identity and will to fight back against the injustices of life. His words are a rallying cry of hope and strength for those who know first-hand the cruel reality of the prison system, and an inspiring reminder of the power of coming together in the face of such adversity.