Combining gut-busting humor, complex lyrical food references, and a vast understanding of street culture, Action Bronson carved out his own lane last year with undeniable mic skills and gregariously offbeat charisma. After self-releasing acclaimed debut "Dr. Lecter" and a well-received collaborative album with producer Statik Selectah ("Well-Done," on DCide), Bronson's latest effort, "Blue Chips," finds the Queens native teaming with Fool's Good Records producer Party Supplies and sneaker brand Reebok for an off-the-cuff free mixtape.
Much like Bronson's endless punch lines, "Blue Chips," out today (March 12) on Complex.com, took shape in an easygoing studio atmosphere. "The original thing I wanted to call it was '5 Minute Beats and 1 Take Raps' [because] that's pretty much all it really was," Bronson reveals. "It was all on the fly shit," agrees Party Supplies. "It wasn't thought out."
Most of "Blue Chips" was made in Party Supplies' home studio in Brooklyn over YouTube sample digging, grub from local chicken joint Pies 'n' Thighs, and obligatory smoke sessions.
Action Bronson + Party Supplies, "Blue Chips"
"I jumped on YouTube, found some weird obscure sample -- basically started looping it on the drum machine and [Bronson] wrote some shit," Party Supplies says of the recording. "It's digging in the crates," Bronson adds. " is digging nonetheless. It's still hard to find [the gems]."
The spontaneous environment spurred some choice moments of carefree collaboration. "Party Supplies helped me out on a rhyme, on the song 'Blue Chips,'" laughs Bronson. "He actually was saying things to me and I was turning them into rap."
That open-minded attitude attracted Reebok, leading it to fund the project and sponsor the release. "They're very progressive. They're both two different people, both very creative," says Reebok head of entertainment for global Matt Pantoja, a hip-hop fan and friend of managers Dante Ross (Bronson) and Peter Oasis (Party Supplies). "Everybody's talking about bringing New York back and all these things, and I felt like this was something that was going to create that kind of energy and get people psyched on the project."
For both artists, the Reebok deal was a chance to pair with one of their favorite brands. "Reebok introduced the idea to us, we were into it, and we love Reebok. [They're] such a classic company," Party Supplies says. "I grew up wearing them shits," affirms Bronson. "I wear the Kamakazi and I still have a lot of old school Reeboks today: the Pumps, the Michael Chang's, the Shaq's."
Rolling Thunder
Action Bronson & Party Supplies Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴
My past life I was a Rabbi
Now I live the fast life
Drugs on standby in the
Circle by the campfire
Telling stories of yesteryear
Pull out the pocket mirror just
The rap Dennis the Menace with
Dennis Rodman's in Venice, inventive
She took a bump and started
Dancing like Elaine Benes
The big chain sway like I’m playing tennis
One man team, about to win the pennant
Now you can tell by my
Pendant that I’m protected
Direct descendent in the blue and
Orange Lexus watching ‘Se7en' land in Dublin
Pull me in the room and ask if it's resin
I said no
They sent me on my way with blessings
I trained a dolphin to let the
Slammer off like Dolph Lundgren
That’s if your mouth running
You’ll get your couch sunked in
I’m rare like a fucking Asian playing hockey
My ocean view is due to Papi
Bitches call me Rodney
Bought my bitch a present hope
I don’t spoil it ‘What is it baby?’
Face to face toilets
Toyota with the spoiler Ace of Base boiling
I play ball like Billy Hoyle
Now I need a Sidney Dean to help
Me start this brothel in the Philippines
I stay in Flushing like I’m Dillon Gee
You ain't gotta open the comic book
To figure who the villain be
It’s me doing perfect dives
In the Sicilian sea
You know I like my bitch with a Brazilian V
Bumping Bobby Brown cry when I’m not around
She always hold it down, pound under the seat
In that all white Jeep sleep
That’s if you wanna
I be schwitzing in the sauna
It's better than the piggies
Blitzing on the corner
Come in the crib every night
And I kiss my daughter
Same lips spit on the lawyer spitting noise
We out it's me
Always forever
In the lyrics of "Rolling Thunder" by Action Bronson & Party Supplies, the rapper paints a vivid picture of his dynamic lifestyle fueled by fast living and indulgence. He begins by referencing his past life as a Rabbi, highlighting the stark contrast to his current existence of living in the fast lane with drugs readily available. The imagery of sitting in a rocking chair while contemplating his transformation showcases a reflective moment amidst the chaos. The mention of a circle by the campfire signals a sense of camaraderie, where stories are shared and memories of the past come alive. The act of checking his appearance in a pocket mirror and grooming himself with a comb hints at a desire for self-presentation and confidence.
The lyrics convey a sense of defiance and individuality, likening himself to an unconventional blend of characters such as Dennis the Menace and Dennis Rodman. The reference to Elaine Benes from the show "Seinfeld" dancing after taking a bump sets a playful and carefree tone, contrasting with the seriousness of the fast life he leads. The mention of a pendant serving as a symbol of protection speaks to his awareness of his status and presence in his environment. The reference to the movie "Se7en" landing in Dublin adds a cinematic touch, further blurring the lines between reality and fantasy in his world.
Continuing with his bold and uncompromising demeanor, Bronson references training a dolphin to intimidate those who challenge him, showcasing his assertiveness and ability to command respect. The allusion to being as rare as an Asian playing hockey underscores his uniqueness and prowess in navigating unexpected territories. The juxtaposition of luxury items like an ocean view and a Toyota with a spoiler underlines his eclectic tastes and lifestyle choices. The mention of starting a brothel in the Philippines with a partner alludes to his entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to explore unconventional ventures.
The final paragraph of the lyrics brings a sense of closure and reflection. Bronson states his loyalty to his loved ones, referencing his daughter and the routine of kissing her goodnight. The contrast between his gritty exterior and tender moments shows a multifaceted personality that values family and integrity. The lyrics conclude on a note of unity and solidarity, with Bronson affirming his presence and permanence in the ever-changing landscape of his life. The themes of resilience, individuality, and connection thread through the song, offering a glimpse into the complex persona of the artist.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@danmurawski5790
'she took a bump and started dancing like Elaine Benes' is an all timer
@skippyroo7597
The beat brings a tear to my eye thinking of my past days
@teamedwardchauncey
Realest shit btw
@brianagabriellekranich3261
The rap Dennis the Menace with Dennis Rodman's in Venice
inventive she took a bump and started dancing like Elaine Benes <3
@SheriffMayorTV
He really paints a picture.
@jeffpesos420
GAHDAMN shit should be illegal
@oscardeavila8993
im in love with this beat
@colinmcguire2933
What is it baby? Face to face toilets.
@saintjean777
I was reading your comment when the part came up lmao
@brycewilson1909
i'm not sure i understood how fire this whole mixtape was when it came out, i mean i liked it a lot back then but wow