Their first record deal was on Eric "Eazy-E" Wright's Ruthless Records, the independent label owned by Wright that featured major acts like N.W.A., The D.O.C., and Eazy-E himself.
In 1990 they released their debut album Livin' Like Hustlers. Critically acclaimed on release, the album was produced by the group alongside casual member Laylaw and Dr. Dre, and featured a guest appearance by N.W.A.. Despite the strong material, the album was a commercial flop. However, in their 1998 "100th issue," The Source magazine listed Above the Law's debut as one of the 100 Greatest Hip Hop Albums of All Time.
A 1991 EP was released to promote the groups sophomore album. However, by the time Vocally Pimpin was released, it had received mixed reviews. With only a scant few new songs and mostly remixes, the EP did not perform well.
It was during this time Dr, Dre was involved in a messy break up with Eazy E and Ruthless Records, and was (according to Ronin Ro's Have Gun Will Travel) contractually obliged to produce two more songs for the group. Although these songs were recorded, they were never released. It is possible the changing times at the reocrd label were responsible for the average quality of the EP.
In 1993, the group released the critically acclaimed Black Mafia Life. Go Mack was now gone, as was Laylaw, and Cold 187um took on the bulk of production. The group reinvented themselves with a fresh new sound which they referred to as G-funk. Dr. Dre's The Chronic released at the end of 1992, may or may not have adopted this sound, although it was released several months before Black Mafia Life, and sparked a long-standing debate between Dre and ATL over the originator of the sound.
Here is a snip from an interview explaining how the G-Funk sound came about.
Big Hutch (Cold 187um): Well here is the real. Weather people wanna believe it or not, I don’t know, it doesn’t really matter to me. G-Funk was actually created as a type of sound. It wasn’t like “this is gonna be our sound”. When we came to Ruthless, we were more like Funky melodic and NWA was more like matally sound. Like metal… like hard head break beatish. We brought the funky, vibey, groovey shit to the table. We were cutting “Black mafia life”… actually we was cutting “For the funk of it”, the EP which was between “Livin’ like hustlers” and “Black mafia life”. I started mixing up a lot of Clinton shit and real funky shit and do it melodic. Melody style… You know you’ve got to remember the melody of “London bridge” before you remember the words… That’s how a melody is so intriguing and so step-on. So I was doing a lot of melodic stuff… but we was talkin’ about ghetto shit. You know straight gutter… And we was cutting “Call it what you want” and at the time people was like “Your shit is kinda different. What do you call your shit?” and we was like “You know this is some G shit mixed with some funk”. We would call it G-Funk or some shit like that.
Ok…
At the time, Warren G was sleeping on my floor in my apartment and he was like “Wow that’s kinda cool”… and so we cut “Call it what you want” and even Pac, this was before The Chronic, if you listen to “Call it what you want” you can hear Pac saying “I’m pumpin’ G-Funk but you can call it what you want”. This was before The Chronic or anything… So the first time you hear the term “G-Funk” on record it’s from 2pac’s mouth. So go do your research and that’ll tell you the truth about that. It’s on record. It has nothing to do with Warren G. It has nothing to do with Dr Dre because none of those records were cut with none of those guys. They weren’t even in the building.
The album featured cameos by Tupac, Money-B, MC Ren, and Eazy E, as well as a quirky fresh new talent named Kokane (Cold 187um/ Big Hutchs cousin). The single VSOP proved to be popular, but once again the album failed to achieve success.
In 1994 the group were back with the hit single Black Superman, later cited as one of the 100 Greatest Hip Hop Singles of All Time in The Source magazine, 1999. The single preceded their third album Uncle Sams Curse, introducing a harder, more heavy and ominous twist on the G-funk they previously presented. Again Cold 187 took on the production and Kokane featured heavily throughout.
In 1995 label boss Eazy E died quickly of AIDs related illness, and the majority of the remaining roster at Ruthless Records began to jump ship from the waning label.
Above the Law would find themselves signed to Tommy Boy in 1996, where they released their fourth album Time Will Reveal.
In 2004 Murder Rap appeared on popular videogame Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, playing on West Coast hip hop radio station Radio Los Santos.
Last Song
Above the Law Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
(KM.G)
KM.G will never be a trick
Step up to the mic like a baller then I pimp this gift
That only I possess
I illustrated that way to get the shit off my chest
I'm ghetto raise to amaze the crowd, it's quite simple
I'm a graduate and it's all legit
From the pimping, the ballin' and all that good shit
I have the mega balls in which I speak in a slang
While I'm peeking it wit the G's from the Ruthless gang
Ain't nuttin change but the weather like I said before
'Cause I'm living like hustlers and I'm checking galore
Yo, I have to give it up to the D.O.C.
A Ruthless brother who's down wit the KM.G
So all hail to the niggas that's turning it out
And maybe then, I'll take the gun barrel out of your mouth
Knowledge from one generation to another, perserve
and then transmitted, get it, done the Ruthless way,
You know what I'm saying, so what's up Dre
(Dr. Dre)
Now I'm a swinger, I'm not a muthafuking singer
But I bringa melody that always seems to ring a
Bell as well, let's make it so you can tell
Yo, it's coming from Compton where the ballers dwell
'Cause I'm Dre, the muthafuking doctor causing propaganda
When I'm on the mic, I demand a
Little bit of time to express myself
From ?(cedian)? wax, kicking the facts and it's like that
A nigga wit a muthafuking attitude
You know the deal, kicking some real shit
And if a sucker ever thinks he can get some
Yo, step off, I'm kicking lyrics for the deaf and the dumb
But any occasion, getting the bitches wit the mega persuasion
Then my dick starts top make an invasion
But, yo, I can't go on
Because this is the end of my part on the last song
Real G from the streets, villianous when he speaks
For all you busters who can't deal, give it up for real
(MC Ren)
Now when you see me, you're ducking and slipping, yo, then you fell
down
You fucked up and finally figured who was the cell down
Pulling the pulls, crotching the bull
The weak muthafuker was smelling like shit so I guess that they're full
Of it, and I love it when I dress like a crook
Wit a "I don't give a fuck" look
The villain was something nuff like a hero
Jacking all the niggas wit beef, off of relief, I mean the zeros
The rest of the 100% was sent to do what I say
NWA and ATL and we don't play
The DOC is doing it, oh, so correctly
See, I broke it down for the ones who try to check me
But I can't be check 'cause I'm the checker
When you see a nigga wreck believe that I'm the wrecker
The right and for the fight and the left will attend
We're doing wrong, MC Ren is on the last song
From a genius to temporary insanity, the ganster's dream
The bitches fanasty, Ruthless, so now we've come to the payoff
(Eazy-E)
One muthafuking two muthafuking three
It's the hip-hop thugster Eazy-E
So I grab the mic and then I clear my throat
First nigga kicking lyrics in a straightcoat
It's Eazy for me to come off like this
So you can kiss my ass where the sun rays miss
Or just give me the pussy and I'll be straight
And if you don't, fuck it, I'll masterbate
(We wanta fuck you Eazy) yea, you bitches scream
Now bow down and praise the lord for the wing ding
I got skill to deal and run game on bitches
You can tell that I'm sick by the triple sixes
I hear voices in my head for what reason
But when the talking stops (pow) it's drive by season
So back the fuck off and give me respect
Now they're shipping me off 'cause Eazy played wit a half deck
Criminal in his thoughts, murderous in his lyrics
The notorious Cold
(Cold 187um)
187um, you know I gotta have it
Now being above the law is an everyday habit
If you think I drop some pimp shit, I ain't
Perhaps I'll say a couple rhymes to make the bitches faint
Now everybody wants to chill, ill
And bill, now what the fuck is the deal
You need a nigga like me to get the shit going
187um has got the ultimate flowing
Now it's time for me to go off like a maniac
Run up for cover 'cause I'm on the ?(adidnac)?
An untouchable player rolled up into one mind
87 reasons why fools staying in line
'Cause I ain't the average nigga behind the trigger
I lay and spray anything in my way
'Cause I'm a balls player for the streets of South Central
believe what you want but soon you'll eventually see
That ATL is straight to mega
Don't be surprise 'cause we played ya like Sega
And these bodies keep dropping, you see me keep moving on
Peace, I'm outta here 'cause this is the last song
Shout outs
The lyrics of Above the Law's song Last Song are a combination of braggadocio and storytelling, with each member of the group showcasing their skills over the course of the song. The first verse, delivered by KM.G, highlights his unique style and upbringing in South Central Los Angeles. He boasts of having "mega balls" and speaks in slang while referencing his connections to the Ruthless gang.
Dr. Dre's verse is more introspective, with the rapper acknowledging that he's not a singer but can still bring a melody to his rhymes. He touches on his Compton roots, his reputation as a "doctor" in the hip-hop world, and his tendency to kick "real shit." MC Ren's verse is filled with violent imagery, as he portrays himself as a villainous figure who enjoys jacking people for their beef. Finally, Eazy-E and Cold 187um round out the song with their respective verses, which are both filled with sexually explicit content and aggressive rhymes.
Overall, Last Song is a showcase for Above the Law's individual talents and unique styles. The song provides a glimpse into the group's life and experiences in South Central LA, while also boasting of their connections to other hip-hop heavyweights like the D.O.C. and Dr. Dre.
Line by Line Meaning
Experience, so you know it's gonna be some mega shit, so who is that (KM.G)
KM.G is someone with experience and expertise that people can respect.
KM.G will never be a trick
KM.G is a skilled rapper who will never deceive or disappoint his listeners.
Step up to the mic like a baller then I pimp this gift
KM.G takes charge of his performance and uses his talent to captivate his audience.
That only I possess
KM.G has a unique talent that sets him apart from others.
I'm ghetto raise to amaze the crowd, it's quite simple
KM.G comes from a gritty background and uses that to his advantage to impress his fans.
Km.G has degrees from Unity of South Central
KM.G has learned important life lessons from his experiences in South Central and has grown from them.
I have the mega balls in which I speak in a slang
KM.G is confident in his rapping skills and uses his own unique language to express himself.
While I'm peeking it wit the G's from the Ruthless gang
KM.G collaborates with members of the Ruthless gang to create innovative music.
Ain't nuttin change but the weather like I said before
Things may change, but KM.G's style and attitude remain constant.
'Cause I'm living like hustlers and I'm checking galore
KM.G embodies the spirit of a hustler and is doing well in his career.
Yo, I have to give it up to the D.O.C.
KM.G acknowledges and respects the talent of fellow rapper, the D.O.C.
A Ruthless brother who's down wit the KM.G
The D.O.C. is a collaborator and supporter of KM.G's music and career.
And maybe then, I'll take the gun barrel out of your mouth
When KM.G is successful enough, he won't have to worry about being threatened or silenced.
Now I'm a swinger, I'm not a muthafuking singer
Dr. Dre is a musician who wants to be appreciated for more than just his singing skills.
But I bringa melody that always seems to ring a
Despite not being a traditional singer, Dr. Dre is able to infuse his music with a catchy melody.
'Cause I'm Dre, the muthafuking doctor causing propaganda
Dr. Dre is an influential musician who uses his platform to spread a message or idea.
When I'm on the mic, I demand a
Dr. Dre is a strong presence on stage and commands attention.
Little bit of time to express myself
Dr. Dre wants the opportunity to share his thoughts and feelings through his music.
From ?(cedian)? wax, kicking the facts and it's like that
Dr. Dre uses his lyricism to speak candidly about his experiences and opinions.
A nigga wit a muthafuking attitude
Dr. Dre has a confident and unapologetic demeanor that he brings to his music.
But any occasion, getting the bitches wit the mega persuasion
Dr. Dre has the charisma and charm to attract women easily.
Then my dick starts top make an invasion
Dr. Dre's sexual prowess is a powerful force in his persona and music.
Because this is the end of my part on the last song
Dr. Dre recognizes that his contribution to the song is coming to a close.
Now when you see me, you're ducking and slipping, yo, then you fell down
MC Ren's reputation precedes him and makes people nervous in his presence.
You fucked up and finally figured who was the cell down
MC Ren's intimidating presence can cause people to realize their errors and make better choices.
The weak muthafuker was smelling like shit so I guess that they're full
MC Ren is able to see through a person's façade or excuses and recognize their true nature.
Wit a "I don't give a fuck" look
MC Ren has a tough and apathetic exterior that he uses to his advantage.
The villain was something nuff like a hero
MC Ren presents himself as an antihero who has his own moral code and sense of justice.
But I can't be check 'cause I'm the checker
MC Ren is in control and can't be held accountable or questioned by anyone else.
When you see a nigga wreck believe that I'm the wrecker
MC Ren is a master of his craft and is able to dominate any situation he encounters.
We're doing wrong, MC Ren is on the last song
MC Ren recognizes that his actions may be inappropriate or questionable, but he is continuing anyway.
So I grab the mic and then I clear my throat
Eazy-E takes control of the stage and prepares to perform.
First nigga kicking lyrics in a straightcoat
Eazy-E raps with a level of intensity that could be considered crazy or unhinged.
It's Eazy for me to come off like this
Eazy-E's talent and confidence make it effortless for him to perform and succeed.
Or just give me the pussy and I'll be straight
Eazy-E is willing to trade sexual favors for immediate gratification and success.
And if you don't, fuck it, I'll masterbate
Eazy-E is unapologetic and willing to satisfy his own needs and desires if necessary.
I hear voices in my head for what reason
Eazy-E may be struggling with mental health issues or experiencing a spiritual phenomenon.
'Cause I'm a balls player for the streets of South Central
Eazy-E is a confident and successful performer who reflects his upbringing in South Central LA.
Criminal in his thoughts, murderous in his lyrics
Eazy-E is not afraid to express his darker or violent thoughts through his music.
The notorious Cold
Cold 187um is a renowned and respected rapper.
Now being above the law is an everyday habit
Cold 187um enjoys the freedom and power that comes with being a successful rapper.
Perhaps I'll say a couple rhymes to make the bitches faint
Cold 187um is able to create music that has a profound impact on his listeners and fans.
You need a nigga like me to get the shit going
Cold 187um is integral to the success and energy of the music scene.
An untouchable player rolled up into one mind
Cold 187um is both an influential figure and a creative genius, making him unstoppable.
'Cause I ain't the average nigga behind the trigger
Cold 187um eschews the stereotypical rapper persona and sets himself apart.
'Cause I'm a balls player for the streets of South Central
Cold 187um is a talented and charismatic rapper who represents his roots in South Central LA.
Don't be surprise 'cause we played ya like Sega
Cold 187um and his crew have outsmarted their rivals and competition, just like beating a video game.
And these bodies keep dropping, you see me keep moving on
Despite any tragedies or setbacks in his career, Cold 187um persists and continues to create music.
Shout outs
Acknowledgments and thanks to people who have supported the artist's career and success.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: PETER ANDERS SVENSSON, MAGNUS SVENINGSSON
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@ants8527
Mc Ren Snapped!!!
@johnleon2594
EAZY
@rloco80
Above The Law + N.W.A. = WEST COAST HIP HOP CLASSIC!!
@nouchinouchi6219
Ruthless record at his finest... shoutout to the West coast ..i miss eazy e and kmg , RIP
@nikkig6434
No mumble rappers here
@tyleryoung2469
Real rap
@tyleryoung2469
Nwa the original creates of gangster Rap!!
@coreyhendricks9490
It's similar to Grand Finale off of The D.O.C.'s No One Can Do It Better album 👍
@johnmaveric5
I was thinking the same - I prefer The Grand Finale
@eternalyfeful
@@johnmaveric5.... yeah, Grand Finale was just RIDICULOUS 🔥🔥🔥