Compressions from Steady Breath by Rhymedics

A pulse begins, not subtle, but direct: velvet kicks and a brushed snare snap grounding an unfolding narrative. It details a public lesson, a crucial exchange on a campus quad where palms meet sternums, numbers learned through necessity. The track juxtaposes raw human vulnerability with rhythmic precision. EKG-like hi-hats tick at 105 BPM, a steady, urgent metronome beneath gospel organ swells and the precise tap of viola col legno. It frames the instruction, the collective chant of “I learned to count by compressions, breathe, we’re not alone,” less as a performance and more as a shared, vital practice. This is not just a song about learning; it’s about communal activation, forging muscle memory from collective voice. The layered chorus, a call-and-response, ensures the message imprints, urging listeners to internalize a profound act of care. It’s a compelling argument for hip-hop as public service, delivered with an undeniable, yet tender, force.

Tracklist

8.	Compressions	3:01

Lyrics

Quad fills quick; eyes wet, hands high

Palms stack center, I square my stance
We set 105, teach life by chance
I say, numbers live under our skin
When seconds thin, let muscle win
If you’re scared to lead, I’ll start the tone
You echo strong, we’re not alone

Breathe in with me, let the choir reply
Count out loud, don’t be shy

I learned to count by compressions, breathe, we’re not alone
(We’re not alone) I learned to count by compressions, breathe, we’re not alone
I learned to count by compressions, breathe, we’re not alone
(We’re not alone) I learned to count by compressions, breathe, we’re not alone

We practice now so fear won’t steer
When lips turn blue, we move, stay near
Your voice to mine, we share the load
This chant’s a map, a simple code
If you freeze, hear this song in your phone
Press and count—bring them home

Breathe with me, let the campus rise
Hands on center, open eyes

I learned to count by compressions, breathe, we’re not alone
(We’re not alone) I learned to count by compressions, breathe, we’re not alone
I learned to count by compressions, breathe, we’re not alone
(We’re not alone) I learned to count by compressions, breathe, we’re not alone

One-two-three-four—breathe—hold—go
One-two-three-four—breathe—hold—go

Share the link, save a life—you already know

Credits

from Steady Breath, released October 27, 2025

License