Friends” How many of us have them: A Lesson in True Connection

Rap music in the 1980s was more than just a genre—it was a movement. It gave artists a platform to express deep, often raw life experiences in ways that resonated with listeners from all walks of life. Whodini, a prominent group during this era, was no exception. Their hit song “Friends” was a lyrical masterpiece, not just because of the catchy beat but because of the powerful message ingrained in the lyrics. This song made listeners, like me, reflect on the nature of friendship, questioning who and what a true friend represents. This topic really resonated with me recently during a “self-care” day with the ladies. When the question of friendship came up in our discussion, I found myself momentarily stumped. I’ve always kept my circle small, and I realized that outside of my close friends, I didn’t have many others to consider for another outing. It made me reflect on Whodini’s song and the deeper meaning behind true friendship.

Rap as an Artform: More Than Just Skill

To understand why “Friends” was so impactful, it is essential to recognize the skillset required to excel in old-school rap. It wasn’t enough to have a good flow or clever rhymes. True rap mastery involved a blend of storytelling, wordplay, and emotion. This artistry, while requiring skill, was more of a gift—something that could only be honed through perseverance and an intimate connection with life’s challenges. Whodini tapped into this gift to create songs that spoke directly to the listener’s soul, weaving relatable scenarios with hard truths.

For Whodini, like many artists of the era, rap was about more than entertainment—it was about making a statement. Their ability to paint a vivid picture of life’s realities, including the complexities of relationships, set them apart. “Friends” wasn’t just a song; it was a social commentary, a reflection on human connection and trust. “TRUST” that the key word that keeps my circles small and Saturdays clear, lol.

The Premise: What Does Friendship Really Mean?

At its core, the song “Friends” asks a critical question: who can truly be called a friend? The lyrics push listeners to evaluate the people in their lives who hold that title and apply pressure to determine who deserves it. It was a wake-up call (for me) to reassess relationships, not based on superficial bonds, but on loyalty, support, and honesty.

In the song, Whodini highlights the often-whimsical way society views friendship. We’re taught from a young age to view friends as people who are always there for us, who will never betray us. But the truth, as the song illustrates, is far more complicated. Not everyone you call a friend will live up to that title, and understanding this can be a hard pill to swallow. My pastor used to say that people were in your life for a reason, a season or forever. And you find yourself in compromising or hurtful situations when you place them in positions that they were never meant to be in. (Thank you, RP)

Old-School Rap: Delivering Life’s Marching Orders

If old-school rap was known for anything, it was its ability to illuminate an artist’s lyrical capabilities to express hardcore life experiences. The best songs were the ones that gave listeners marching orders—clear guidelines on how to navigate difficult situations. Whodini’s “Friends” was no different. It spoke to a generation about the importance of assessing relationships with a critical eye, ensuring that those you hold close are worthy of that position.

The song’s candidness was refreshing and, for many, necessary. It stripped away the idealized version of friendship we often see in popular culture and replaced it with the real, gritty truth: not everyone is a friend, and that’s okay. The important part is learning how to identify those who are.

Evaluating Friendship: Past and Present

The message behind “Friends” is timeless. It forces listeners, both in the ’80s and today, to look back on their relationships—both past and present—and identify those who have truly stood out. Who has been a shoulder to lean on? Who has been there in times of need? And, just as importantly, who hasn’t?

In today’s world, where the definition of friendship can be diluted by social media and casual connections, this message is more relevant than ever. Whodini’s song reminds us that not everyone who calls themselves a friend is truly one, and that’s a truth we must accept in order to move forward.

In the end, “Friends” is more than just an iconic 80s rap song—it’s a lesson in self-reflection and emotional intelligence. It challenges us to assess, accept, and move accordingly in our relationships, ensuring that we surround ourselves with people who genuinely care, support, and love us. And in that sense, it remains classic and relevant for any generation looking to understand the true meaning of friendship.

Until next time!

A.L.R.