C-Block and Their Iconic Track “Time Is Tickin’ Away”

C-Block, a German-American hip-hop duo, became a defining act of the 1990s with their signature blend of rap and melodic hooks. One of their most iconic tracks, “Time Is Tickin’ Away,” released in 1997, became a massive hit and solidified their place in the Euro-rap scene. This song is a testament to C-Block’s ability to craft socially-conscious lyrics, paired with catchy beats and a poignant message that resonates across generations.

Lyrics

Ahaha ahaha
keep it on, keep it on
keep your head on
time is tickin’, time is tickin’
tickin’ away
uhhohuho

Rap 1

Let’s talk about time
tickin’ away every day
so wake on up before it’s gone away
catch the 411 and stay up like the sun
remind yourself what’s done is done
so let yesterday stay with the bygones
keep your body and soul and your mind on
the right track infact you gotta stay on the real black
don’t turn around and don’t look back
we tryin’ to take the positive to another level
Red Dogg diggin’ deep Mr. P got the shouvel
I’ll level with you I played in a foul picture
but now I got my mental sewel up like a stitcher
I used to be a “P” try on to clock “G’s” living wild blast
you before you blast me thats the lifestyle
and I could see it on the evening news
it’s just another brutha shot
on either stretched doin time
Time is tickin’ away
you’ve gotta – live your life
day by day
happy or sad, good or bad,
life is too short
you’ve gotta – keep your head (2x)

Rap 2

Keep your head one more time and feel the rythm
I’m tellin’ your life is to short you know the feelin’
you want to do more your selfesteem is in the way
you better take a kid and live it day by day
but anyway I’m going for mine I’m still broke it’s no joke
they still got me hangin’ from the rope’s
take time and still do the right thing
and not the wrong so listen to the word’s of the song
Tick Tock your seconds away from the judgement day
so get your mind ready take the Evil’s but out way
bring back we cut no slack we kick fact’s
the positive message on this tracks is exact the way we feel it
in the nineteen 90’s chillin’ with red in the mix your find me – rewind me
and turn back my mind thinkin’ about the homies
is the pen doing time
Time is tickin’ away
you’ve gotta – live your life
day by day
happy or sad, good or bad,
life is too short
you’ve gotta – keep your head (2x)

Prayer

Once again
CBK on da track
to wake up your mind
who know what tomorrow might bring
violence – destruction – who knows?
‘cause time is slippin’ away
The world keeps spinning
around and round
we’ve gotta keep ourselves
from going down
in a world full of passion,
pleasure and pain
the pressure’s get into my brain
Time is tickin’ away
you’ve gotta – live your life
day by day
happy or sad, good or bad,
life is too short
you’ve gotta – keep your head (2x)

Who is C-Block?

C-Block was formed in 1995 by the American rappers Anthony “Red Dogg” Joseph and James “Mr. P” White, who were based in Germany. They gained significant popularity across Europe with their blend of West Coast rap influences, smooth hooks, and strong lyrical content. Often categorized under the genre of Euro-rap, C-Block’s music was characterized by its mix of hardcore rap verses and melodic choruses, creating a unique fusion that made them stand out.

The group was known for tackling both personal and social themes in their music. Their thoughtful approach to songwriting, combined with memorable beats, allowed them to bridge the gap between mainstream appeal and deep lyrical substance.

“Time Is Tickin’ Away” – The Song and Its Meaning

“Time Is Tickin’ Away” was part of C-Block’s debut album General Population, which featured a mix of hip-hop tracks with introspective themes. The song, produced by the Munich-based team of Ulrich Buchmann and Frank Müller, was one of the standout singles from the album.

Lyrically, “Time Is Tickin’ Away” addresses themes of urgency, time passing, and the importance of making the most of the moments we have. The central message is clear: time is a precious resource that waits for no one, and we must use it wisely. The song’s hook, with its repeated refrain, “Time is tickin’ away,” emphasizes this theme, urging listeners to reflect on how they spend their time and the need to focus on what truly matters.

In addition to its reflective lyrics, “Time Is Tickin’ Away” also has a socially conscious undertone. The verses, delivered with a blend of smooth flow and sharp delivery, highlight issues such as violence, loss, and the fleeting nature of life. The message is particularly poignant in a world where distractions and trivial pursuits often overshadow more meaningful endeavors.

Musical Composition and Style

“Time Is Tickin’ Away” is not just powerful in its message but also in its production. The track is built around a mid-tempo beat, with a rhythmic bassline that drives the song forward. The use of synthesizers and drum machines, typical of 90s Euro-rap, gives the track a distinct sound that is both nostalgic and timeless.

The chorus, sung with a soulful and slightly melancholic tone, contrasts beautifully with the harder rap verses. This duality of sound—melodic and rhythmic—was one of C-Block’s trademarks, helping them stand out in a crowded music scene.

The balance between melody and rap in the song reflects the group’s ability to blend different elements, making it accessible to both hardcore rap fans and those who preferred more melodic, radio-friendly music.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

Though C-Block’s career did not reach the international heights of some of their contemporaries, “Time Is Tickin’ Away” remains a well-loved track, especially in Europe. The song encapsulates the sound of 90s Euro-rap—a genre that, while not as globally dominant as American hip-hop, played a significant role in shaping the European music scene during that era.

The themes of “Time Is Tickin’ Away” also give the song a timeless quality. The message about the passage of time and the importance of living meaningfully is as relevant today as it was when the song was first released. Its reflective nature has allowed it to endure, making it a track that listeners return to when contemplating life’s fleeting nature.

Conclusion

“Time Is Tickin’ Away” by C-Block is more than just a 90s hit—it’s a track that carries a deep, reflective message about the human experience. With its unique blend of rap and melody, the song captures the essence of time’s relentless march and urges us to make the most of every moment. For fans of C-Block, the song is a classic, but its universal themes ensure that its appeal extends far beyond its original release, making it a timeless piece in the world of music.