Perhaps the group's most important contribution to rap is their speedy, harmonizing flow. While fast rapping has always had a niche in the culture, Bone certainly brought the style to the forefront. In addition, the group's ability to harmonize whilst flowing at top speeds is truly remarkable. Not before nor since has a rapper or rap group sung an a cappella tune without loss of street cred.
Their albums have varied in subject material, with 1994's Creepin on Ah Come Up being heavily influenced by the G-Funk gangsta rap era. E. 1999 Eternal, the group's most successful album, focused primarily on violent criminal activity, but also showed Bone exploring themes of spirituality, and the introduction of the group's trademark "weed songs"-- songs devoted entirely to smoking weed. The group's 1997 album, the Art of War, saw Bone further explore a wide variety of subjects and styles, with even more focus on God and family and an overall more ambient, mellow sound. The group still found time for violent lyrics, though, with a large portion of the album dedicated to what they labeled "clones" who claimed Bone had stolen their quick-tongued rapping style and vice-versa. 2002's Thug World Order album saw a drastic change in subject matter and tone for the group. The lyrics were almost completely void of any violence.
Although 1996 was definitely the peak of their popular appeal, Bone still has a fairly large cult following. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony are the only rap artists ever to have collaborated with late rappers Eazy-E, 2Pac, Big Punisher and The Notorious B.I.G.. Their latest release, Thug Stories, was released September 19, 2006.
Bone Thugs released their new album Strength and Loyalty on May 8, 2007 with production by Swizz Beatz, Kanye West, Lil' Jon, Three 6 Mafia, Big Boi of Outkast, Play-N-Skillz, Jermaine Dupri, Timbaland and Dr. Dre. It will be featuring guest appearances by Jennifer Lopez, Kelly Rowland, The Game, Lil Eazy-E ,Mariah Carey, Akon, Chamillionaire, Twista, Busta Rhymes, Stevie Wonder, Eve, Cassidy, Lil' Recka and DMX. According to the group they have recorded nearly 70 tracks and are in the process of deciding which tracks will appear on the album. Although producer DJ-Uneek helped to launch the band to stardom, he does not appear on the album; rather, handling the majority of the producton is Chicago native LT Hutton, with whom the band has worked on prior recordings. According to Bone, the album will feature all-new vocals from imprisoned member Flesh-N-Bone.
The first single, "Just Vibe", has been released on the radio in Southern California. Bizzy Bone will not be on the album. Bone says that this album will be their best ever. Swizz Beatz will handle most of the production, as the group signed in 2005 to Swizz Beatz' Full Surface Records, and in 2006 to Interscope Records.
As of 2006 to the present, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, especially Krayzie Bone, have continued their strong track record of collaborations and appearances on compilation albums. Krayzie appeare d on Duets: The Final Chapter by The Notorious B.I.G, the soundtrack from the Antonio Banderas movie Take the Lead and on DJ Khaled's new album Listennn... The Album (all of these appearances were credited as Bone Thugs-N-Harmony on the track listings to show the loyalty of the group). Bone Thugs appeared with Lil Eazy-E on the soundtrack to The Game's debut acting movie Waist Deep, and on The Source Presents Fat Tape Vol. 1. The most successful was Krayzie Bone's appearance on Chamillionaire's #1 single Ridin'. Krayzie Bone is featured on the new 2Pac album Pac's Life on the song "Untouchable (Swizz Beatz Remix)," credited as Bone Thugs-N-Harmony.
Ghetto Cowboy
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
You better count your money (Ghetto Cowboy)
You better count your money
You better count your money (Ghetto Cowboy)
You better count your money
You better count your money (Ghetto Cowboy)
You better count your money
You better count your money (Ghetto Cowboy)
The name is Krayzie, big bad ass bone,
Wanted up north for all the gold that I stole,
Along with some cash I even took the mayor's daughter,
Now that there's kidnap, but she was with us so I brought her.
Dun got myself into a whole heap of trouble,
Double crossed by the law so it's nobody to run to,
Yeah it's just me and my sawed-off shotgun,
I dun now call him 'Leatherface'
I'm headed for the west heard they got a couple banks in town
That ain't been held up yet, well uh, I ought to make it by sundown,
I figure that's enough time for me to get the whole rundown,
So I continue my mission, it's gettin' dark
So now I'm watching for them damn injuns,
They like to catch up then they rob -n- split.
I'll be a rootin' tootin' shootin' damn fool, protectin' my chips.
All of a sudden, I heard somebody rumble in the bushes, stopped my horse,
Whoa Nelly!
Who in the bushes, you better speak up,
Or I'm-a let my shotgun's song sing out.
Who's this?
Hope this ain't the law, draw out the bushes with my sawed-off shotgun.
Come on out right now I'm gettin' angry.
Took a step back 'cause it could get dangerous.
Please don't shoot it's just me Thug Queen Horse Stealer.
Then why the hell is you hidin' in them bushes
I'm wanted in four counties, for armed robbery,
Killed two sheriffs, six of his best men with my head,
Stole two horses, thought you was the law that's why I jumped in the bushes.
Goodness. Now she was hotter than a barrel of fire but
I could use her for the job so I told her to ride, come on.
May I ask you what you headed to the west for?
I got a partner got a plan for some dough and if you're down
You can pick up yourself a pretty penny.
Be in town in a minute now be sure if you're with it.
We be up before the sun rise got a stallion here for your partner
To ride hit the saloon before the moon shine down
For whatever let's ride let's ride.
These directions say we go to Tucson, Arizona
When we arrive we'll cop a place we can bunk,
And meet my boy in the morning for details 'n hookup.
You better count your money
You better count your money (Ghetto Cowboy)
You better count your money
You better count your money (Ghetto Cowboy)
Rise 'n shine, good morning, howdy.
Nine o' clock we meet my boy in the saloon in the valley.
Now I dun came a long way and I don't wanna be late.
Tell him I'll make it to him, you know we ain't.
Move out, giddy up giddy up giddy up
Move out, giddy up giddy up giddy up
Move out, giddy up giddy up giddy up
Move out, giddy up giddy up giddy up
You better count your money (Ghetto cowboy)
You better count your money
I'm peepin' Krayzie's 'Wanted' poster in the saloon,
So I assume it'll be trouble round here pretty soon.
Glanced across the room I seen this youngster gettin' ready to fight
But if he mess up tonight I think that Krayzie just might take his life.
So I approached him and I paused.
Look man, I really don't wanna brawl, but won't you chill before them laws,
Come messin' up this master plan,
Since he already rowdy I'm just asked the man (Dang)
You want some work well partner put in your bid
And by the way now what's your name, they call me Layzie the Kid.
The name's Powder Pete, can I get a twelve gauge!
Outlaw every day, on the front page.
Mister Kid, if you give me the low down me and Blackjack,
Be ready for the showdown, with two double barrels pointed at whatever,
We'll stick together, I'm pretty clever.
So saddle up, jump on the bandwagon because it's all goin' down.
I heard the guy runnin' the bar screamin' 'Krayzie's in town.'
Now when we get to this saloon, you don't worry, wait outside.
Don't be stealin' nobody's damn horses.
Stepped inside the bar.
Layzie Kid you son of a gun!
Hey man I'm glad you made it safely, now let's go have some fun.
And this my partner Powder, he's a young gun.
Howdy
Mighty glad to meet ya son.
Oh yeah, you know I also brought a friend along, meet Thug Queen,
The horse peddler, straggler, just met her.
Howdy partner, already got the horses saddled up.
I hope you're good at robbin' banks like you rustle that cattle up.
Now y'all, it's gonna be gettin' dark real soon.
I think you're right I say we move, come on let's.
Move out, giddy up giddy up giddy up
Move out, giddy up giddy up giddy up
Move out, giddy up giddy up giddy up
Move out, giddy up giddy up giddy up
You better count your money
You better count your money
You better count your money
You better count your money
You better count your money
You better count your money
You better count your money
You better count your money
(Ghetto Cowboy)
In Bone Thugs-N-Harmony's song "Ghetto Cowboy", Krayzie explains his situation as a criminal on the run, trying to rob banks and avoid the law. He introduces himself as a wanted criminal, and he is looking for new banks to rob in the west. Krayzie’s character is accompanied by an unnamed woman who introduces herself as Thug Queen Horse Stealer. She explains that she is a criminal, wanted in four counties for armed robbery, killed two sheriffs and six of his best men with her head, and stole two horses. While she is afraid of the law, Krayzie agrees to use her for the job they have planned. Later in the song, Krayzie and his new partners arrive at a saloon where they meet Layzie and Powder Pete, two other outlaws who are willing to help rob the banks.
The song speaks of the wild west and the life of a cowboy, detailing the adventures of Krayzie and his group of outlaws. The lyrics help to paint a picture of the wild west and the dangers and intrigues that came with a life of crime. The song is a representation of the struggles that many people face in the ghetto, and how some turn to a life of crime as their only option to survive. The song's chorus, "You better count your money" reinforces the fact that in this dangerous world, survival and success are measured by the cash you have.
Line by Line Meaning
You better count your money
It is important to keep track of your finances
The name is Krayzie, big bad ass bone
Introducing himself as Krayzie, a notorious and fearless individual
Wanted up north for all the gold that I stole
Being wanted for a robbery committed up north
Along with some cash I even took the mayor's daughter
Not only stealing money, but also kidnapping the mayor's daughter
Now that there's kidnap, but she was with us so I brought her
Kidnapping technically, but she willingly joined the group
Dun got myself into a whole heap of trouble
Got involved in a lot of trouble
Double crossed by the law so it's nobody to run to
Betrayed by the authorities, leaving no one to seek help from
Yeah it's just me and my sawed-off shotgun
Being alone with a powerful weapon for protection
I dun now call him 'Leatherface'
Giving the shotgun a nickname 'Leatherface'
I'm headed for the west heard they got a couple banks in town
Traveling towards the west where there are banks to rob
That ain't been held up yet, well uh, I ought to make it by sundown
Targeting banks that haven't been robbed and aiming to arrive before sunset
I figure that's enough time for me to get the whole rundown
Estimating that there is sufficient time to gather all the necessary information
So I continue my mission, it's gettin' dark
Persisting with the plan as night approaches
So now I'm watching for them damn injuns
Being cautious and vigilant for potential threats from Native Americans
They like to catch up then they rob -n- split
Referring to Native Americans who ambush and steal from others
I'll be a rootin' tootin' shootin' damn fool, protectin' my chips
Promising to defend his stolen money with determination and recklessness
All of a sudden, I heard somebody rumble in the bushes, stopped my horse
Hearing noises in the bushes and pausing, alert and ready
Whoa Nelly!
Expressing surprise or shock
Who in the bushes, you better speak up
Demanding the hidden person to reveal themselves
Or I'm-a let my shotgun's song sing out
Threatening to use the shotgun if there is no response
Who's this?
Asking for the identity of the person in the bushes
Hope this ain't the law, draw out the bushes with my sawed-off shotgun
Hoping that the person in the bushes is not a law enforcement officer and readying the weapon
Come on out right now I'm gettin' angry
Growing impatient and demanding the person to come out
Took a step back 'cause it could get dangerous
Recognizing the potential danger and taking a defensive position
Please don't shoot it's just me Thug Queen Horse Stealer
Revealing herself as Thug Queen Horse Stealer and pleading not to be shot
Then why the hell is you hidin' in them bushes
Questioning the reason for hiding in the bushes if there is no malicious intent
I'm wanted in four counties, for armed robbery
Being wanted for armed robbery in multiple counties
Killed two sheriffs, six of his best men with my head
Boasting about killing law enforcement officers and their loyal subordinates
Stole two horses, thought you was the law, that's why I jumped in the bushes
Thinking Thug Queen Horse Stealer was law enforcement, which led to hiding in the bushes
Goodness. Now she was hotter than a barrel of fire but
Expressing admiration for Thug Queen Horse Stealer's attractiveness
I could use her for the job so I told her to ride, come on
Seeing potential in Thug Queen Horse Stealer and inviting her to join the mission
May I ask you what you headed to the west for?
Inquiring about Thug Queen's motives for heading west
I got a partner, got a plan for some dough and if you're down
Explaining the presence of a partner and a plan to earn money, inviting Thug Queen to join
You can pick up yourself a pretty penny
Assuring Thug Queen of the financial benefits of joining the mission
Be in town in a minute now be sure if you're with it
Planning to arrive in town soon and confirming Thug Queen's decision to participate
We be up before the sun rise, got a stallion here for your partner
Being prepared and ready to leave early, offering a horse for Thug Queen's partner
To ride hit the saloon before the moon shine down
Arriving at the saloon and completing the mission before nighttime
For whatever, let's ride, let's ride
Determined to proceed and urging everyone to move forward
These directions say we go to Tucson, Arizona
Referring to the directions to Tucson, Arizona as the next destination
When we arrive, we'll cop a place we can bunk
Planning to find accommodation upon arrival
And meet my boy in the morning for details 'n hookup
Arranging to meet a contact in the morning to discuss the plan and establish connections
Rise 'n shine, good morning, howdy
Waking up and greeting each other in the morning
Nine o' clock we meet my boy in the saloon in the valley
Scheduling a meeting with the contact at a saloon in the valley at 9 o'clock
Now I dun came a long way and I don't wanna be late
Having traveled a significant distance and not wanting to arrive late
Tell him I'll make it to him, you know we ain't
Assuring the others that they will arrive on time and fulfill their commitment
Move out, giddy up giddy up giddy up
Urging everyone to start moving and ride their horses
You better count your money (Ghetto Cowboy)
Reiterating the importance of managing and keeping track of finances
I'm peepin' Krayzie's 'Wanted' poster in the saloon
Observing Krayzie's wanted poster displayed in the saloon
So I assume it'll be trouble round here pretty soon
Anticipating that there will be trouble in the area soon
Glanced across the room I seen this youngster gettin' ready to fight
Noticing a young person preparing for a fight
But if he mess up tonight I think that Krayzie just might take his life
Warning the young person that Krayzie might harm or even kill him if he causes trouble
So I approached him and I paused
Approaching the young person cautiously and taking a moment to assess the situation
Look man, I really don't wanna brawl, but won't you chill before them laws
Expressing a desire to avoid a fight and advising the young person to calm down before attracting attention from the authorities
Come messin' up this master plan
Seeking to prevent any interference with the well-thought-out plan
Since he already rowdy I'm just askin' the man (Dang)
Acknowledging the young person's agitated state and making a request
You want some work, well partner put in your bid
Offering the young person a chance to join the mission by proving his skills and commitment
And by the way now what's your name, they call me Layzie the Kid
Inquiring about the young person's name while introducing himself as Layzie the Kid
The name's Powder Pete, can I get a twelve gauge!
Introducing himself as Powder Pete and requesting a twelve-gauge shotgun
Outlaw every day, on the front page
Being a notorious outlaw featuring in newspaper headlines
Mister Kid, if you give me the low down me and Blackjack
Requesting information from Layzie the Kid and expressing partnership with Blackjack
Be ready for the showdown, with two double barrels pointed at whatever
Preparing for a confrontation, armed with two double-barreled shotguns
We'll stick together, I'm pretty clever
Promising loyalty and highlighting his intelligence
So saddle up, jump on the bandwagon because it's all goin' down
Encouraging everyone to prepare and join the mission as things are about to happen
I heard the guy runnin' the bar screamin' 'Krayzie's in town.'
Overhearing the bar owner announcing the presence of Krayzie in town
Now when we get to this saloon, you don't worry, wait outside
Advising Thug Queen and Powder Pete to remain outside the saloon upon arrival
Don't be stealin' nobody's damn horses
Warning against horse theft
Stepped inside the bar
Entering the saloon
Layzie Kid you son of a gun!
Greeting Layzie the Kid warmly
Hey man I'm glad you made it safely, now let's go have some fun
Expressing relief that Layzie the Kid arrived without incident and suggesting enjoying themselves
And this my partner Powder, he's a young gun
Introducing Powder Pete as his partner, describing him as a skilled and energetic individual
Howdy
A casual greeting
Mighty glad to meet ya son
Expressing pleasure in meeting the person
Oh yeah, you know I also brought a friend along, meet Thug Queen
Introducing Thug Queen as a friend who joined the group
The horse peddler, straggler, just met her
Describing Thug Queen as someone who deals with horses and recently joined the group
Howdy partner, already got the horses saddled up
Greeting Layzie the Kid and informing him that the horses are ready for departure
I hope you're good at robbin' banks like you rustle that cattle up
Expressing the expectation that Layzie the Kid's bank robbery skills are as good as his ability to steal cattle
Now y'all, it's gonna be gettin' dark real soon
Informing the group that the daylight is fading quickly
I think you're right, I say we move, come on let's
Agreeing with Powder Pete's statement and urging everyone to continue moving
Move out, giddy up giddy up giddy up
Encouraging the horses to start moving with enthusiasm
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: ANTHONY HENDERSON, FELECIA NICOLE LINDSEY, JIMMY LEE BURK, KAMILHA GREER, STEVEN HOWSE
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@stephaniec561
Me and my brother used to roll around listening to this when I was younger. Popped up on my recommendations, made my day as my brother is no longer here. 🥰
@rayramirez8776
Damn... Stay strong G ❤️
@Benny-ye7ro
I’m so sorry….my daughter was 17 when she and her best friend Jolene would play this over and over. She died in a car accident that year it was so popular. I think of her every time this pops up….
@vickiwoods57
I'm sorry you're bro not around anymore..I listen to this as well I've lost loved ones as well
@MissBama1776
I'm sorry you're here without him. Loss is so hard... My memory of this song is it came out when I found out I was pregnant with my son. Played it going to work everyday :)
@Beayziematt2013
Amen, lost 2 brothers and my father within 8 year period and my 2nd late brother Brian was hardcore bone thugs have vivid memories of him and I too this song to this day 10 years later, keep pushin
@nathanielmuraahi1278
Anyone listening in 2023 💯
@brooketaylor6226
36 and so grateful for the rap music we had growing up! Classics like this are few and far between nowadays. 😉
@rickyray2794
Few years younger but yeah I agree. Bone thugs, three six mafia, many more.
@ronaldjohnson6304
35 and I feel the same.