“Friends” by Whodini
The title of this song is spot on, as it does in fact deal exclusively with the concept of friendship. Or more specifically, it features the artists’ analyses of such relationships. And basically what it all boils down to is that whereas there is such a thing as a true friend, they are few and far between. And for the most part Whodini utilizes narratives centered on romance to get that point across. One case features a couple who, at least initially, hit it off quite well. But as time progresses their relationship dissolves due to the fact that they never actually developed a friendship in the midst of becoming lovers.
And the second case is about two homegirls, whereas one steals the other one’s man. So again, it becomes quite evident that the rappers consider “friends” to be individuals we must be wary of.
Facts about “Friends”
This track was written exclusively by Whodini’s Jalil Hutchins. And its producer was Larry Smith.
“Friends” is by and large considered to be the signature song of Whodini, a rap group from the early days of hip-hop. In fact throughout the years, the number of other rappers and musicians in general who sampled this track are virtually innumerable. But in that regard, the most-notable usage of the tune would arguably be that of Nas via his 1996 single “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)”, featuring Lauryn Hill.
The official listed release date of “Friends” is 1 January 1984. It is the lead single from Whodini’s second album, which is entitled Escape.
This track, which was released by Jive Records, went on to appear on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs listing in addition to making it onto the Hot 100 and remaining there for three weeks. The latter especially is a notable accomplishment for a rap song that came out during the early 1980s.
And in actuality, according to Billboard itself, this track should have probably performed better on the charts. However, being that this was around the time rap music was just catching on, it was often played on radio during the nighttime. And such plays were not reported to the applicable agencies (i.e. Billboard).
