3rd Ring Light
A2Z's Lyrics


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Is this on?
Gather round my wealthy friends and endure the horrifying sights
Only your worst nightmares can produce
Actual human beings of a deformed nature
Come at once and come and indulge yourself
In our own twisted amusement of another's misfortune
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, enter our three ring show of freaks"
Ring one, a dung a dung dung
My name's Violent J and I staple my tongue
To the desk in school then I run down the hall
Scaring the shit out of all y'all bitches
Which is why you don't invite mine to your parties
Just 'cause I don't look like everybody
I guess you're just a bunch of hot shots
They act like they ain't never seen a Cyclops

And what's the big deal about my neck
Just because now and then I like to let it stretch
Up a couple feet to get a better sight
Is that any reason to scream and run in fright
No, so, what's up with that?
So what if I got another arm growing out of my back
I guess I'm just another freak show thing
And now they got me in the three ring

Three ring a ding a ding ding, people love to point and stare
Three ring a ding a ding ding, it's the same as everywhere
Three ring a ding a ding ding, people love to point and stare
Three ring a ding a ding ding, it's the same as everywhere

Ring two, how do you do?
I'm Shaggy 2 Dope, chicken-faced bitch, who?
You don't try to front ho
Try to play me out just 'cause I'm an albino
Or maybe it's the sack growin' out my neck
But don't jet baby, heh, not yet
I'm popping in like a pound of lead
Black n blue, his next roll and drop me on my head

Oh shit, I knew I had to fuck up my circuits
'Cause when I was two, my momma left me at the circus
Abandoned at the carnival with the freak shows
Like bad boys, hermaphrodites and old man crow
But then I escaped to the ghetto zone
Started a crew of my own, motherfucker, I'm not alone
So don't be stickin', your finger in my face stank
Or your stomach might receive a shank from the

Three ring a ding a ding ding, people love to point and stare
Three ring a ding a ding ding, it's the same as everywhere
Three ring a ding a ding ding, people love to point and stare
Three ring a ding a ding ding, it's the same as everywhere

I certainly hope you're enjoying yourselves
Here at our three ring exhibit
But to be honest I really don't see
What's so fuckin' funny about it
These fuckin' people are real

Ring three, the ICP
Look if you want but I wouldn't lay a hand on me
That's how you get fucked up
We'll squeeze your windpipe shut
Yo, I'm a nerd word, I drink Thunderbird
I chill with my homies on a crackhouse curb
Nobody wanna hang with a freak
Who's clinically dead with no heart beat

Fuck that, bitch, suck that
I was born with a wang but I never had a nut sac
Just two balls hanging with no protection so
I move real careful and slow
You can call me a weirdo, call me a freak
Just 'cause my nose curl up like the iron shriek
Is that the reason nobody wanna hang, fuck It
I chill with the three rings

Three ring a ding a ding ding, people love to point and stare
Three ring a ding a ding ding, it's the same as everywhere
Three ring a ding a ding ding, people love to point and stare
Three ring a ding a ding ding, it's the same as everywhere

Well, that's it, I hope you're satisfied
I hope you had a good time
You fucking heartless bastards
You saw what you wanted
So grab your fucking kids
And that fat flop of shit wife of yours
And get the fuck out of our circus tent

You cold-hearted sons of bitches
You think they look fucked up
Just wait till I kick your
Fucking lips in a couple times
You'll be sitting up here like a bitch
And we'll laughing at your folded ass

They'll call you lumpy after I done put knots
All over your fuckin' forehead, yeah
Hey, hey little boy, come here
How'd you like it if I tied your neck in a knot
You fucking little bitch
Come here, I'll shove that
Fucking corn dog up your ass

Get the fuck out of here
Show's fucking over
Get the fuck out of here
You fucking heartless bastards

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of A2Z's "3rd Ring Light" take listeners on a provocative journey that combines elements of self-identity, societal judgment, and the dark humor associated with being an outsider. The song opens with an invitation to the audience, likening the experience to a twisted carnival where the spectacle is human beings considered "deformed" or abnormal. This setting serves as a metaphor for how society often treats those who do not conform to traditional standards of beauty and regularity. The lyricist addresses the audience’s morbid curiosity, suggesting that their amusement is derived not from a place of kindness, but from a fascination with the grotesque. It establishes a theme of exploitation, where the so-called "freaks” become the entertainment for those who feel superior.


As the verses progress, the persona of Violent J introduces himself, recounting his antics and the reactions they provoke. He flaunts his physical absurdities, such as stapling his tongue or having an extra arm, emphasizing his identity as a “freak” and directly confronting the listener's prejudices. Instead of seeking acceptance, he asserts a sense of pride in his uniqueness, questioning why his unusual characteristics generate fear and disgust. This lyrical defiance challenges the norms of societal beauty and normalcy, asserting that just because someone differs from the mainstream, they should not be subject to ridicule or ostracism. The refrain reinforces this notion as it highlights the ease with which people point and stare, reflecting the pervasive judgment faced by those on the margins of societal acceptance.


Continuing into Ring Two, Shaggy 2 Dope adds his own narrative of marginalization. Here, he narrates a backstory of being abandoned at a circus and dealing with the consequences of societal mockery due to his skin tone and physical appearance. He expresses a sense of camaraderie with other outcasts, showcasing a rebellious spirit that refuses to be a passive victim of circumstance. His vivid imagery and aggressive rhetoric serve as a defense mechanism against adversities faced due to his identity. He articulates the pain of being labeled as a "freak" while emphasizing resilience and agency in navigating a world that often fails to understand or accept him as he is. The chorus, repeated throughout, amplifies the absurdity of the situation, hinting at a universal experience of judgment and alienation that transcends their personal stories.


The final ring brings a raw confrontation against the audience's perceptions of what they consider normal. The lyrical content vividly asserts that the performers, perceived as grotesque or peculiar, are actual human beings with real feelings. The tone shifts from one of indulgent humor to a critical challenge directed at the spectators, reminding them of their own humanity and fragility. This conclusion serves as a powerful indictment against a world that delights in others' misfortunes while being blind to its inherent cruelty. The closing outburst conveys a threatening energy, blurring the lines between performer and audience, asserting that while they may view the “freaks” as less than human, the reality could just as easily turn on them, suggesting that vulnerability exists in everybody. Thus, the song encourages listeners to reflect on their own biases and the societal structures that promote such divisions.


Line by Line Meaning

Is this on?
Are we ready to begin this spectacle?


Gather round my wealthy friends and endure the horrifying sights
Come closer, affluent guests, and witness the shocking and grotesque displays.


Only your worst nightmares can produce
The horrors on display are things born from your darkest fears.


Actual human beings of a deformed nature
These are real people, altered in ways that society finds unsettling.


Come at once and come and indulge yourself
Join us immediately to satisfy your curiosity about these strange wonders.


In our own twisted amusement of another's misfortune
We revel in the sorrow of those who are different, finding entertainment in their struggles.


Yes, ladies and gentlemen, enter our three ring show of freaks
Welcome, everyone, to our exhibition that showcases extraordinary individuals.


Ring one, a dung a dung dung
Here comes the first act, signaled with a dramatic sound.


My name's Violent J and I staple my tongue
I am Violent J, performing shocking acts, even mutilating myself.


To the desk in school then I run down the hall
I engage in reckless behavior at school, causing chaos.


Scaring the shit out of all y'all bitches
I terrify those around me with my wild antics.


Which is why you don't invite mine to your parties
People exclude me from social gatherings due to my unconventional nature.


Just 'cause I don't look like everybody
My different appearance sets me apart from the norm.


I guess you're just a bunch of hot shots
It appears that you think highly of yourselves for rejecting me.


They act like they ain't never seen a Cyclops
People respond to me as if encountering something completely foreign.


And what's the big deal about my neck
Why is my unique physical feature such a source of fear?


Just because now and then I like to let it stretch
Sometimes I extend my neck for a better view, why should this shock anyone?


Up a couple feet to get a better sight
I elevate my perspective for a clearer vision of the world.


Is that any reason to scream and run in fright
Should this unusual trait cause panic among bystanders?


No, so, what's up with that?
Clearly, it doesn't warrant such a reaction.


So what if I got another arm growing out of my back
My additional limb shouldn't define how others perceive me.


I guess I'm just another freak show thing
I am labeled a curiosity by society.


And now they got me in the three ring
Now I find myself showcased in this spectacle.


Three ring a ding a ding ding, people love to point and stare
With each ring of the show, the audience revels in their voyeurism.


Three ring a ding a ding ding, it's the same as everywhere
No matter where I go, I encounter the same unwelcoming attention.


Three ring a ding a ding ding, people love to point and stare
Again, the audience's delight in gawking at the unusual is clear.


Three ring a ding a ding ding, it's the same as everywhere
The treatment I receive is universally consistent wherever I am.


Ring two, how do you do?
Here’s the second act, presenting myself to you.


I'm Shaggy 2 Dope, chicken-faced bitch, who?
I am Shaggy 2 Dope, and I'm here unapologetically, despite the jeers.


You don't try to front ho
Don't pretend to act superior or dismissive.


Try to play me out just 'cause I'm an albino
Don't belittle me simply because of my skin condition.


Or maybe it's the sack growin' out my neck
Now, perhaps my unusual physical attributes are also a factor.


But don't jet baby, heh, not yet
Please stick around; there’s more to see.


I'm popping in like a pound of lead
I make a heavy and impactful entrance.


Black n blue, his next roll and drop me on my head
After a rough encounter, parts of my body will bear the consequences.


Oh shit, I knew I had to fuck up my circuits
I realized I had malfunctioned in a significant way.


'Cause when I was two, my momma left me at the circus
An early traumatic experience has defined my outlook on life.


Abandoned at the carnival with the freak shows
Left to the care of outcasts, I was raised amongst the oddities.


Like bad boys, hermaphrodites and old man crow
I grew up surrounded by those deemed unconventional and marginalized.


But then I escaped to the ghetto zone
I broke free from that environment to seek a different life.


Started a crew of my own, motherfucker, I'm not alone
I formed a new community, refusing to be isolated.


So don't be stickin', your finger in my face stank
Don't provoke or confront me aggressively.


Or your stomach might receive a shank from the
You might face retaliation if you challenge me.


Three ring a ding a ding ding, people love to point and stare
Once again, the crowd is captivated by our spectacle.


Three ring a ding a ding ding, it's the same as everywhere
Their fascination exists universally, no matter where we go.


Three ring a ding a ding ding, people love to point and stare
The audience's fixation remains unchanged.


Three ring a ding a ding ding, it's the same as everywhere
This reaction is universally predictable in every location.


I certainly hope you're enjoying yourselves
I genuinely wish you are finding this entertaining.


Here at our three ring exhibit
Welcome to our showcase featuring diverse anomalies.


But to be honest I really don't see
Truthfully speaking, I fail to understand.


What's so fuckin' funny about it
What makes this situation so amusing to you?


These fuckin' people are real
The individuals you mock are genuine, with real feelings.


Ring three, the ICP
Now we enter the third act, revealing the Insane Clown Posse.


Look if you want but I wouldn't lay a hand on me
Feel free to observe, but I advise against confrontation.


That's how you get fucked up
Engaging with me improperly could result in serious consequences.


We'll squeeze your windpipe shut
We can defend ourselves fiercely if threatened.


Yo, I'm a nerd word, I drink Thunderbird
I embrace my identity as an outcast, enjoying lowbrow culture.


I chill with my homies on a crackhouse curb
I find companionship among those who society often rejects.


Nobody wanna hang with a freak
Many avoid associating with those who are seen as different.


Who's clinically dead with no heart beat
I live with a sense of being disconnected from mainstream life.


Fuck that, bitch, suck that
I'm defiant against the judgment and rejection I face.


I was born with a wang but I never had a nut sac
I exist in a state of physical contradiction, symbolizing my uniqueness.


Just two balls hanging with no protection so
A description of my vulnerability within my unusual body.


I move real careful and slow
I navigate life cautiously due to my circumstances.


You can call me a weirdo, call me a freak
Label me as strange, if you wish; it won’t change who I am.


Just 'cause my nose curl up like the iron shriek
My distinctive features are a part of my identity, not a mask.


Is that the reason nobody wanna hang, fuck It
If that’s why I am rejected, then let it be.


I chill with the three rings
I find companionship among my fellow outcasts.


Three ring a ding a ding ding, people love to point and stare
The audience's fixation continues as they gawk at our uniqueness.


Three ring a ding a ding ding, it's the same as everywhere
Such reactions are consistent no matter where we perform.


Three ring a ding a ding ding, people love to point and stare
This relentless attention from the crowd is part of our reality.


Three ring a ding a ding ding, it's the same as everywhere
No matter where we go, the audience's response remains unchanged.


Well, that's it, I hope you're satisfied
This concludes our performance, and I hope it met your expectations.


I hope you had a good time
I genuinely wish you found enjoyment in what you've witnessed.


You fucking heartless bastards
To those who fail to empathize with our struggles, I express disdain.


You saw what you wanted
You came for sensationalism, disregarding the humanity behind it.


So grab your fucking kids
Now, gather your children to leave this spectacle.


And that fat flop of shit wife of yours
Bring along your partner, whom I've judged harshly.


And get the fuck out of our circus tent
Exit our performance space; your presence is unwelcome.


You cold-hearted sons of bitches
I address you, lacking compassion for those you ridicule.


You think they look fucked up
You view these performers as distorted by society’s standards.


Just wait till I kick your
You will face consequences for your callousness.


Fucking lips in a couple times
I will retaliate physically for your offensive behavior.


You'll be sitting up here like a bitch
You may find yourself in a helpless state, much like those you mock.


And we'll laughing at your folded ass
We will take joy in your humiliation.


They'll call you lumpy after I done put knots
Your face will bear the marks of our confrontation.


All over your fuckin' forehead, yeah
The physical evidence of your arrogance will be clear.


Hey, hey little boy, come here
I beckon forward those who act brashly.


How'd you like it if I tied your neck in a knot
Imagine facing a similar threat as the ridicule you’ve dished out.


You fucking little bitch
I call out your cowardice and mock your bravado.


Come here, I'll shove that
I challenge your bravado with a physical threat.


Fucking corn dog up your ass
A vulgar threat meant to demean those who mock us.


Get the fuck out of here
Leave this space immediately.


Show's fucking over
This performance has reached its conclusion.


Get the fuck out of here
Once again, I insist you vacate the premises.


You fucking heartless bastards
I reiterate my disdain for your lack of empathy.




Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: JOSEPH BRUCE, MIKE E. CLARK

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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