If this were 1999, this would be one of the biggest hits on radio: homogenous R&B/Rap collaboration, melody, and hard-edged, personal revelations from Earl Simmons. Omar Wilson cranks out an inspirational, uplifting tune, while DMX gives it some texture talking about growing up too fast, and claiming that he wants the streets to “raise” him, or champion him once more. This is one of the most lucid, and well-recorded X moments in the last few years.

Related: Behind the Scenes Look at the Recording of Rakim & DMX’s Don’t Call Me (Video)