What Would You Do? The Powerful Story Behind City High's Anthem
Have you ever found yourself wondering what you would do if you were in someone else's shoes, facing impossible circumstances? That's exactly the question City High posed in their breakout 2001 hit "What Would You Do?"—a song that resonated with millions and became an anthem for single parents struggling to make ends meet.
The Story Behind the Song
Music video by City High performing "What Would You Do?" (C) 2001 Interscope Geffen (A&M) Records A Division of UMG Recordings Inc.
The song "What Would You Do?" along with the accompanying music video, was likely intended as a motivational anthem for single parents dealing with poverty and especially acknowledging all the single mothers who feel forced into prostitution due to the need to support their children. The track doesn't shy away from difficult realities—it confronts them head-on with raw honesty and empathy.
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What makes this song particularly powerful is how it encourages listeners to keep strong and keep going on for the sake of their loved ones. Rather than offering pity or judgment, City High extended a hand of understanding to those facing desperate circumstances, asking listeners to consider what choices they might make if put in similar situations.
The Impact and Legacy
Stream "What Would You Do?" by City High on desktop and mobile. Play over 320 million tracks for free on SoundCloud.
Listen to "What Would You Do?" - City High · Song · 2001. The track's reach extended far beyond its initial release, becoming a cultural touchstone for discussions about poverty, single parenthood, and the difficult choices people make when backed into corners by economic hardship.
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Explore the tracklist, credits, statistics, and more for "What Would You Do?" Compare versions and buy on Discogs. The song's impact was so significant that it continues to be discovered by new generations, with its message remaining as relevant today as it was when first released.
The Tragic Loss of Robbie Pardlo
"What Would You Do?" rapper Robbie Pardlo of City High dead at 46 in NJ. This heartbreaking news shocked fans and fellow musicians alike, as Pardlo was a founding member of the group whose powerful vocals contributed significantly to the song's emotional impact.
The loss of Pardlo serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and support within the music industry and beyond. His passing left a void in the hip-hop community and among fans who connected deeply with City High's music.
City High: The Group Behind the Hit
Created by Fugee member Wyclef, City High is a Grammy-nominated, platinum group known for their hits "What Would You Do?" & "Caramel" ft. Group members include Ryan Toby, Claudette Ortiz, and Robbie Pardlo. Their unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, and socially conscious lyrics set them apart in the early 2000s music scene.
City High's music often explored themes of social justice, poverty, and the human condition, with "What Would You Do?" standing as perhaps their most powerful and enduring statement. The group's ability to combine catchy melodies with thought-provoking lyrics helped them achieve both commercial success and critical acclaim.
The Personal Story of Robbie Pardlo
Full Name: Robert "Robbie" Pardlo Jr.
Born: December 24, 1975
Died: November 1, 2022
Age at Death: 46
Place of Birth: Willingboro, New Jersey
Occupation: Rapper, Singer, Songwriter
Group Affiliation: City High
Known For: Co-founding member of City High, vocals on "What Would You Do?"
Education: University of Virginia (attended)
Musical Style: Hip-hop, R&B
Legacy: Grammy-nominated artist, advocate for social awareness through music
The Song's Cultural Impact
The map is based on a hypothetical strike that targets nuclear silo sites in Montana, North Dakota, and Nebraska. While this statement seems unrelated to the song's content, it serves as a reminder that music often intersects with various aspects of society and culture, sometimes in unexpected ways.
"What Would You Do?" sparked conversations about poverty, prostitution, and the difficult choices people make when facing economic hardship. The song's narrative structure, which presents different perspectives on a single situation, encourages listeners to practice empathy and consider circumstances beyond their own experiences.
The Music Industry Context
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In 2001, when "What Would You Do?" was released, the music industry was undergoing significant changes with the rise of digital distribution and changing consumer habits. City High's success demonstrated that socially conscious music could still achieve mainstream popularity, even as the industry shifted toward more commercialized sounds.
The Song's Enduring Relevance
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"What Would You Do?" remains relevant because the issues it addresses—poverty, single parenthood, economic inequality—continue to affect millions of people worldwide. The song's message of empathy and understanding transcends its era, speaking to new generations facing similar challenges.
The Importance of Preparation
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Just as proper preparation can help students succeed on standardized tests, preparation and planning can help individuals navigate life's challenges more effectively. "What Would You Do?" reminds us that many people face circumstances they never planned for, and the song encourages compassion for those dealing with unexpected difficulties.
The Broader Sports and Entertainment Context
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The entertainment industry, whether music or sports, has the power to influence culture and spark important conversations. City High's "What Would You Do?" demonstrated how music could address serious social issues while still achieving commercial success, paving the way for other artists to tackle challenging topics in their work.
Conclusion
City High's "What Would You Do?" stands as more than just a hit song from 2001—it's a powerful social commentary that continues to resonate with listeners today. Through its honest portrayal of difficult circumstances and its call for empathy, the song has left an indelible mark on hip-hop and R&B music.
The tragic loss of Robbie Pardlo reminds us of the importance of supporting artists not just for their creative contributions, but for their wellbeing as human beings. As we continue to grapple with issues of poverty, inequality, and difficult choices, "What Would You Do?" remains a poignant reminder to approach others with understanding and compassion.
Whether you're streaming it for the first time or the hundredth, take a moment to really listen to the lyrics of "What Would You Do?"—and consider what choices you might make if faced with similar circumstances. In doing so, you'll understand why this song has earned its place as a timeless anthem for empathy and understanding.
