Their debut album One For All is one of the more popular and acclaimed alternative hip hop albums of the 1990s, known for socially conscious and politically charged content inspired by the teachings of the Nation of Gods and Earths.
1989-1992
Brand Nubian formed in 1986 after Grand Puba's original group, Masters of Ceremony, split up. Its first single, "Brand Nubian," was released in 1986. Signed to Elektra Records by A&R man Dante Ross, its debut album, One For All, was released in 1990. Generally acclaimed, the album drew fire for militant Five-Percenter rhetoric on tracks such as "Drop the Bomb" and "Wake Up." The controversy helped sales, though the album was still not a great commercial success. To date, the album has sold 350,000 units. A version of the Fab Five Freddy-directed video for the single "Wake Up," featuring a Black man in white-face makeup, was also banned from MTV. On MTV and from official WEA sources, this image was replaced by a Baptist preacher. The singles "Slow Down," "All for One," and "Wake Up" all became hits on Billboard’s Hot Rap Tracks chart in 1991.
Shortly after its debut release, Sadat X and Lord Jamar began having problems with Grand Puba, which caused him to leave the group, along with DJ Alamo, to pursue a solo career. Lord Jamar and Sadat X enlisted DJ Sincere to join the group in 1992. The same year, Puba released his solo debut, Reel to Reel, which featured the hit single "360° (What Goes Around)".
Later in 1992, the Puba-less Brand Nubian released a hit single of its own, "Punks Jump up to Get Beat Down". The track was met with controversy over alleged homophobic content, referencing the Sadat X line "I can freak, fly, flow, fuck up a faggot/I don't understand their ways, I ain't down with gays." Despite the controversy, the single charted on the Billboard Hot 100 at number 77. Later versions omitted the line, including the version on the greatest hits compilation The Very Best of Brand Nubian.
1992-1996
In late 1992, the crew released its second album, In God We Trust. "Punks Jump Up to Get Beat Down" was included on this release, as well as the number-92 Hot-100 single, "Love Me or Leave Me Alone." The effort sold moderately well, fueled by the crew's continuing controversy. Also in 1993, the group contributed a track for the Menace II Society soundtrack, titled "Lick Dem..........."
The group’s next release, Everything is Everything, was issued in November 1994. The controversy kept growing, with further accusations of the group’s music being analogous to hate speech. The album received very mixed reviews and mediocre sales, despite the top-40 Hot Rap Tracks singles "Word is Bond" and "Hold On (feat. Starr)." In 1995, the group broke up, left Elektra, and launched solo careers in music and television. That year, Puba released his second solo effort, 2000, featuring another Billboard Hot 100 single, "I Like It (I Wanna Be Where You Are)." Sadat X released his first solo effort, titled Wild Cowboys (Loud/RCA/BMG Records), in 1996.
1997-2000
The original members reunited in 1997, contributing a song to the Soul In The Hole soundtrack, titled "A Child is Born". Another song, "Keep It Bubblin'," appeared on the 1997 Money Talks soundtrack. In 1998, the four original members returned with the album Foundation on a new label, Arista/BMG Records. The album received wide acclaim and featured contributions from a larger group of producers, including DJ Premier, Buckwild, Lord Finesse, and Diamond D. The lead single "Don't Let it Go to Your Head" became, at number 54, the group's highest-charting single on the Hot 100. In 2000, the crew once again teamed up with Buckwild of D.I.T.C. and released the underground single "Rockin' It," before the members continued their individual pursuits. Sadat X released a solo EP in 2000, The State of New York vs. Derek Murphy, on Loud/Relativity Records.
2001-present
Puba released his third solo effort, Understand This, in 2001, which received little attention despite featuring his fellow Brand Nubian members. The original members reunited once again in 2004 for the release of its fifth album, Fire in the Hole, their first release on an independent label, Babygrande Records. The album received mixed reviews and sold below expectations. Sadat X released another solo effort in 2005, titled Experience and Education, receiving mostly positive reviews. Jamar also furthered his acting career, recently appearing on an episode of The Sopranos, as well as episodes of Oz, Third Watch, and Law & Order. Lord Jamar released his first solo album, The 5% Album, June 27, 2006, on Babygrande Records. Sadat X's third full length album, titled Black October, was released October 2006. In 2007 the group released an album titled Time's Runnin' Out.
All for One
Brand Nubian Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Quick to toast an MC just like an English muffin
Don't worry about a thing because the Puba's never bluffing
I gets headaches from the wack, so then I take a Bufferin and I max
I wait until the opportune time and then I tax but should I max?
Now they say sinning is for sinners so I guess I'm not a sinner
Beginning's for beginners so I guess I'm no beginner
This is how I spark it, money in my pocket
MC Grand Pu coming through all the residue
The songs remain classics dating back to the Babalu
My boys I call 'em Akh, the foes I let 'em jock
And I can think of many episodes I swung in Lincoln Park
No I'm not a phony and I got a tenderoni
Love the way she is, not too fat, not too bony
Don't drink Sanka, won't sink like a tanker
Knock the boots off a skirt in Casablanca and I thank her
Some rappers stink like Englebert Humperdinck
Better yet Dick Cavett, I got a bad habit
Similar to the girl on 'She's Gotta Have It'
I think with the brain and I whip behind the zipper
I'm living kinda good similar to Jack Tripper
A landlord named Roper did a show at the Copa
When I'm finished with this I'll be paid like Oprah
So if honey wants to act fly
I'll just play like Guy and I'm "saying bye bye dumb bitch"
Stick out your thumb and hitch
'Cause you've been cut off like a light switch
See I'm programmed to slam winter, summer, spring or fall
Before I do a show I get some kicks out the mall
Then I get my gear and I give Trev a call
'Cause he works in the barbershop, right behind the mall
Other rappers tried to rob me but you know they got did
To put it blunt, honey I shrunk the kids
So bookers back off break North here comes the regulator
Betcha that you find none greater
On file is a style, that's why you caught a clip
My suitcases is packed and I'm going on a trip
To Mic-a-delphia I go for self and still be slamming
The school bell is ringing and I caught somebody cramming
For the test, oh yes, my study guide was thick
I cut you with my verbal, didn't hurt you just a nick
Off your face, don't play possum watch me and I'll blossom
Like a rose and get some new clothes
And a fresh fade from Rob
Jump on the phone and dial the Now Rule Mob
Now come one, come all, we about to get hectic
If my crew don't get in, then the X makes a exit
To the rear, I'm outta here, don't front on my brothers
I take care of them before I take care of others
Now wood bats is doomed, in the 90's it's aluminum
Step to the stage with a mic and I'm doing 'em something awful
I'm a citizen and I'm lawful
I go to Hunter in the fall, rip the policemen's ball
I got the power to make a car stall
I get some drinks from Glackens, and when the crowd slackens
I stop drinking and then I start thinking about
Days in the past when Derek X was last
But now I'm on the top, damn, news travels fast
'Cause I'm like that, they can't see this
Read my book, it contains many pieces of verses
I took the time to delete all the curses
So moms reach deep in your purses
And buy me take me home and try me and do me well
Well, while I reign rhymes pour
You suck it up like a straw and jump on the dance floor
'Cause every time I step in a jam
I make like a door and slam
But then girls try to turn my knob 'cause I'm a heart throb
I guess it's just a hazard that comes with the job
'Cause every time I rock a rhyme that shows Jamar is intellectual
Girls want to get sexual
Well I guess I have to cope with being so dope
You want to be me, but can't see me with a telescope
You seek and search but still you can't find
You're weak and it hurts to be deaf, dumb and blind
A supreme mind will take you out of your paralysis
I grip the mic so tight I get callouses
And your analysis is that the Lord
Whips rhymes into shape with a mic cord
I do it good 'cause I'm a positive black man
Eating up suckers as if I was PacMan
Not a Dapper Dan fan, I stay casual
To rock like the J it comes gradual
You got to know the ledge to wise the dumb
And understand your culture of freedom
Power equally with the Gods
So you can build and born your cipher
All your life you must teach truth
Of the true and living God, not a mystery spook
And when you do that, pursue that goal
Which made the student enroll and only then you'll prosper
The lyrics to Brand Nubian's song All For One are built on the theme of masculinity as the rappers take turns to drop bars relating to their manliness, women, their greatness and hip-hop prowess. The opening lines of "I hit a beat and swing a note as if my name was David RuffinQuick to toast an MC just like an English muffin" introduces the song with a witty description of the rapper's rap style. He goes on to declare his confidence and his ability to succeed in the rap game, asserting that the Puba's never bluffing. He takes a dig at wack rappers, declaring that they give him headaches and he consequently takes a Bufferin to relieve himself of pain. He then introduces the central theme of the song- his masculinity- declaring that he gets hard as a rocket when enjoying pleasure.
The lyrics also boast of the band's hip-hop success, describing their music as classic dating back to the Babalu, a famous Latin music club in the Bronx. The artist declares his superiority over other rappers and asserts that he thinks with his brain and "whips behind the zipper." Other themes explored in the song include hard work, fashion, education, and the importance of knowing one's culture. In summary, with their punchy lyrics, Brand Nubian asserts their prowess in the hip-hop game, their masculinity, their style, and their culture.
Line by Line Meaning
I hit a beat and swing a note as if my name was David Ruffin
I effortlessly flow over a beat, showcasing my musical talent and skill, just like the legendary singer David Ruffin.
Quick to toast an MC just like an English muffin
I swiftly defeat and outshine other rappers, similar to toasting an English muffin.
Don't worry about a thing because the Puba's never bluffing
You can trust and rely on me, as I never deceive or lie.
I gets headaches from the wack, so then I take a Bufferin and I max
I become frustrated and annoyed by the inferior quality of other rappers, which leads me to seek relief and distance myself from them.
I wait until the opportune time and then I tax but should I max?
I patiently seize the right moment to make my move and take what's rightfully mine, but I question whether I should push myself to the limit.
Now they say sinning is for sinners so I guess I'm not a sinner
According to popular belief, engaging in sinful behavior is reserved for those who are inherently sinful, suggesting that I am not one of them.
Beginning's for beginners so I guess I'm no beginner
The initial stages are meant for novice individuals, indicating that I have surpassed that phase and acquired advanced skills.
This is how I spark it, money in my pocket
I ignite and energize the crowd with my performance, while also enjoying financial success.
When it comes to having pleasure I gets hard as a rocket
I experience extreme excitement and satisfaction, comparable to the hardness and intensity of a rocket taking off.
MC Grand Pu coming through all the residue
I, as MC Grand Pu, emerge victoriously, leaving behind the remnants and remains of defeated competitors.
The songs remain classics dating back to the Babalu
My music has stood the test of time and is still considered timeless, just like the classic song 'Babalu'.
My boys I call 'em Akh, the foes I let 'em jock
I affectionately refer to my loyal friends as 'Akh', while I allow my enemies to follow and imitate me.
And I can think of many episodes I swung in Lincoln Park
I have vivid memories of numerous occasions where I engaged in confrontations or altercations in Lincoln Park.
No I'm not a phony and I got a tenderoni
I am genuine and authentic, and I am involved with a charming and attractive woman.
Love the way she is, not too fat, not too bony
I appreciate and adore her for who she is, with a perfect balance between being overweight or underweight.
Don't drink Sanka, won't sink like a tanker
I don't consume weak or watered-down substances that may cause me to fail or falter.
Knock the boots off a skirt in Casablanca and I thank her
I engage in intimate relations with a woman in Casablanca, and I express gratitude towards her for the experience.
Some rappers stink like Englebert Humperdinck
Certain rappers possess a strong odor or emit an unpleasant vibe, reminiscent of the famous singer Englebert Humperdinck.
Better yet Dick Cavett, I got a bad habit
Even more so, these rappers resemble the unappealing qualities of TV personality Dick Cavett, while I possess a compelling and addictive nature.
Similar to the girl on 'She's Gotta Have It'
These rappers share similarities with the character in the movie 'She's Gotta Have It', who exemplifies undesirable traits.
I think with the brain and I whip behind the zipper
I make thoughtful and conscious decisions, using my intellect, without being solely driven by sexual desires.
I'm living kinda good similar to Jack Tripper
I am enjoying a comfortable and prosperous lifestyle, akin to the character Jack Tripper from the TV show 'Three's Company'.
A landlord named Roper did a show at the Copa
A landlord named Roper, who owns a club called Copa, organized a concert where I performed.
When I'm finished with this I'll be paid like Oprah
After completing my current endeavor, I will be financially compensated on a major scale, similar to the successful TV host Oprah.
So if honey wants to act fly
If a woman wants to behave arrogantly or superiorly,
I'll just play like Guy and I'm 'saying bye bye dumb bitch'
I will respond by treating her with indifference, just like the musical group Guy, and dismissively bid her farewell.
Stick out your thumb and hitch
She should extend her thumb to hitch a ride, as I no longer have any interest in her.
'Cause you've been cut off like a light switch
She has been abruptly disconnected and eliminated from my life, just like turning off a light switch.
See I'm programmed to slam winter, summer, spring or fall
I am wired and conditioned to deliver powerful and impactful performances regardless of the season.
Before I do a show I get some kicks out the mall
Prior to a live performance, I purchase fashionable footwear from the shopping mall.
Then I get my gear and I give Trev a call
I gather my equipment and contact my friend named Trev, who works at the barbershop located behind the mall.
Other rappers tried to rob me but you know they got did
Various rappers attempted to steal from or challenge me, but ultimately they were unsuccessful and ended up losing.
To put it blunt, honey I shrunk the kids
To be direct, I have diminished the influence and significance of these individuals.
So bookers back off break North here comes the regulator
Bookers and event organizers should step back and give way, as I am going to take charge and assume control like a regulator.
Betcha that you find none greater
I guarantee that you will not come across anyone superior or more talented than me.
On file is a style, that's why you caught a clip
I possess a unique and distinctive style that has been recorded and documented, explaining why you are captivated by my performance.
My suitcases is packed and I'm going on a trip
I am fully prepared and ready to embark on a journey or new endeavor.
To Mic-a-delphia I go for self and still be slamming
I am heading to Philadelphia, also known as 'Mic-a-delphia', to represent and showcase my talent while still delivering impressive and impactful performances.
The school bell is ringing and I caught somebody cramming
As the school bell rings, indicating the start of a test or exam, I caught someone trying to hastily review and learn the material.
For the test, oh yes, my study guide was thick
I had prepared extensively and thoroughly for the upcoming test, evident by the thickness and comprehensiveness of my study guide.
I cut you with my verbal, didn't hurt you just a nick
I metaphorically wounded or defeated you with my sharp and skillful choice of words, but it only caused a minor setback or inconvenience.
Off your face, don't play possum watch me and I'll blossom
I remove the false facade or mask you wear, urging you to witness and appreciate my growth, development, and success.
Like a rose and get some new clothes
Just like a rose blossoms and transforms, I also evolve and upgrade my wardrobe.
And a fresh fade from Rob
I enhance my appearance by getting a stylish haircut, specifically a fresh fade, from my barber named Rob.
Jump on the phone and dial the Now Rule Mob
I immediately contact and connect with my crew, known as the Now Rule Mob, using the telephone.
Now come one, come all, we about to get hectic
Everyone is invited and encouraged to join us, as we are about to create a lively, energetic, and chaotic atmosphere.
If my crew don't get in, then the X makes a exit
If my crew is denied entry, I will make a dramatic exit, creating a scene and drawing attention with my departure.
To the rear, I'm outta here, don't front on my brothers
I swiftly move to the back or exit, making it clear that I will not tolerate any disrespect or mistreatment towards my fellow crew members.
I take care of them before I take care of others
I prioritize and look after the well-being and needs of my crew members before attending to anyone else.
Now wood bats is doomed, in the 90's it's aluminum
Traditional wooden baseball bats are now considered obsolete and doomed to be replaced by aluminum bats, particularly during the 90s era.
Step to the stage with a mic and I'm doing 'em something awful
When I confidently approach the stage with a microphone, I effortlessly and impressively captivate and entertain the audience in an astonishing manner.
I'm a citizen and I'm lawful
I am a law-abiding citizen, adhering to and respecting the rules and regulations of society.
I go to Hunter in the fall, rip the policemen's ball
Every autumn, I attend Hunter College and put on an exceptional performance that energizes and excites the crowd, even causing police officers to let loose and enjoy themselves.
I got the power to make a car stall
I possess an influential and impactful aura that can figuratively bring a moving car to a sudden stop or halt.
I get some drinks from Glackens, and when the crowd slackens
I order beverages from the bar owned by Glackens, and when the audience loses momentum or energy,
I stop drinking and then I start thinking about
I refrain from consuming alcohol and shift my focus to contemplating or strategizing regarding
Days in the past when Derek X was last
Previous periods in time when Derek X was considered the most prominent or influential figure.
But now I'm on the top, damn, news travels fast
However, now I have risen to the highest position of success and fame, and it's astonishing how quickly this information spreads.
'Cause I'm like that, they can't see this
This is my nature and personality, which others fail to perceive or comprehend.
Read my book, it contains many pieces of verses
If you read my autobiography, you will discover numerous enlightening and thought-provoking verses.
I took the time to delete all the curses
I invested effort and attention into removing any profanity or offensive content from my writing.
So moms reach deep in your purses
Mothers, dig deep into your purses or wallets, to support and financially contribute towards my success.
And buy me take me home and try me and do me well
Purchase my album, bring it home, listen to it, and appreciate and enjoy it to the fullest extent.
Well, while I reign rhymes pour
As I establish my dominance and rule supreme, my rhymes continuously flow and pour out effortlessly.
You suck it up like a straw and jump on the dance floor
Listeners eagerly absorb and embrace my rhymes, eagerly joining in on the dance floor to groove along with the music.
'Cause every time I step in a jam
Whenever I appear and perform at an event or gathering,
I make like a door and slam
I create a dynamic and memorable impact, similar to the forceful action of a door slamming shut.
But then girls try to turn my knob 'cause I'm a heart throb
However, women attempt to grab my attention and pursue me, as I am considered charming and attractive.
I guess it's just a hazard that comes with the job
This attention from women is an expected and unavoidable consequence that comes with being in the music industry.
'Cause every time I rock a rhyme that shows Jamar is intellectual
Whenever I deliver a powerful and thought-provoking rap verse, it reveals and emphasizes the intellectual brilliance of Jamar.
Girls want to get sexual
Consequently, women become sexually attracted and drawn to me.
Well I guess I have to cope with being so dope
I must cope with the fact that I am exceptionally talented and impressive, causing envy and admiration among others.
You want to be me, but can't see me with a telescope
You desire to emulate or possess qualities similar to mine, but you are unable to envision or comprehend the extent of my greatness.
You seek and search but still you can't find
You tirelessly seek and search for someone like me, but you continue to fall short in discovering a comparable individual or talent.
You're weak and it hurts to be deaf, dumb and blind
Your lack of ability and understanding is a source of weakness and pain, as you are figuratively deaf, dumb, and blind to my brilliance.
A supreme mind will take you out of your paralysis
However, a truly superior and exceptional intellect has the power to liberate and free you from your metaphorical state of immobility and ignorance.
I grip the mic so tight I get callouses
I hold the microphone with such intensity and determination that callouses form on my hand, highlighting my dedication and firm grasp on my craft.
And your analysis is that the Lord
Your evaluation and understanding of me is that I possess god-like qualities or characteristics.
Whips rhymes into shape with a mic cord
In a masterful manner, I skillfully mold and shape rhymes using the power of the microphone and its cord as my tool.
I do it good 'cause I'm a positive black man
I excel and excel at my craft because I embody the qualities of a positive and empowered black man.
Eating up suckers as if I was PacMan
I metaphorically consume and overpower my adversaries or weak opponents, reminiscent of the video game character PacMan devouring dots.
Not a Dapper Dan fan, I stay casual
I don't adhere to extravagant or high-fashion trends, preferring to maintain a relaxed and laid-back style.
To rock like the J it comes gradual
In order to deliver extraordinary performances akin to rock music, it requires a gradual and steady buildup of energy and intensity, similar to the letter 'J' in 'Jamar'.
You got to know the ledge to wise the dumb
To enlighten or impart wisdom to those lacking knowledge, you must possess profound understanding and insight.
And understand your culture of freedom
Gain an understanding and appreciation of your cultural heritage, which promotes and values freedom of expression and identity.
Power equally with the Gods
Harness and wield power equivalent to that of the deities or higher beings.
So you can build and born your cipher
Therefore, you have the ability and opportunity to construct and establish your own community or circle of influence.
All your life you must teach truth
Throughout the entirety of your existence, it is your duty and responsibility to educate and impart truths to others.
Of the true and living God, not a mystery spook
You must teach and uphold the existence and reality of a genuine and active deity, rather than perpetuating a vague and mysterious notion.
And when you do that, pursue that goal
When you actively strive and work towards achieving that objective or purpose,
Which made the student enroll and only then you'll prosper
The pursuit of knowledge and truth attracts and motivates individuals to seek education, leading to personal growth, success, and prosperity.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: CRAIG BAZILE, D. DIXON, E. ESPRADRON, T. HERRERA, P. MILLER
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Limits98
Lyrics
Yeah
One for all
It's all for one
[Verse 1: Grand Puba]
I hit a beat and swing a note as if my name was David Ruffin
Quick to toast an MC just like an English muffin
Don't worry about a thing because the Puba's never bluffing
I gets headaches from the wack, so then I take a Bufferin and I max
I wait until the opportune time and then I tax but should I max?
Now they say sinning is for sinners so I guess I'm not a sinner
Beginning's for beginners so I guess I'm no beginner
This is how I spark it, puts money in my pocket
When it comes to having pleasure I gets hard as a rocket
MC Grand Pu coming through all the residue
The songs remain classics dating back to the Babalu
My boys I call 'em Akh, the foes I let 'em jock
And I can think of many episodes I swung in Lincoln Park
No I'm not a phony and I got a tenderoni
Love the way she is - not too fat, not too bony
Don't drink Sanka, won't sink like a tanker
Knock the boots off a skirt in Casablanca and I thank her
Some rappers stink like Engelbert Humperdinck
Better yet Dick Cavett, I got a bad habit
Similar to the girl on She's Gotta Have It
I think with the brain and not what’s behind the zipper
I'm living kinda good similar to Jack Tripper
A landlord named Roper did a show at the Copa
When I'm finished with this I'll be paid like Oprah
So if honey wants to act fly
I'll just play like Guy and I'm (saying, "bye, bye, dumb bitch!")
Stick out your thumb and hitch
Cause you've been cut off like a light switch
See I'm programmed to slam, winter, summer, spring or fall
Before I do a show I get some kicks out the mall
Then I get my gear and I give Trev a call
Cause he works in the barbershop, right behind the mall
Other rappers tried to rob me but you know they got did
To put it blunt, honey I shrunk the kids
So bookers back off break North here comes the regulator
Betcha that you find none greater
One for all
(Brand Nubian)
It's all for one
(Brand Nubian)
One for all
(Brand Nubian)
It's all for one
(Brand Nubian)
[Verse 2: Sadat X]
On file is a style, that's why you caught a clip
My suitcases is packed and I'm going on a trip
To Mic-a-delphia I go for self and still be slamming
The school bell is ringing and I caught somebody cramming
For the test, oh yes, my study guide was thick
I cut you with my verbal, didn't hurt you just a nick
Off your face, don't play possum watch me and I'll blossom
Like a rose and get some new clothes
And a fresh fade from Rob
Jamar on the phone and now the Now Rule Mob
The come one, come all, we about to get hectic
If my crew don't get in, then the X makes a exit
To the rear, I'm outta here, don't front on my brothers
I take care of them before I take care of others
The wood bats is doomed, in the 90's it's aluminum
Step to the stage with a mic and I'm doing 'em something awful
I'm a citizen and I'm lawful
I go to Hunter in the fall, rip the policemen's ball
I got the power to make a car stall
I get some drinks from Glackens, and when the crowd slackens
I stop drinking and then I start thinking about
Days in the past when Derek X was last
But now I'm on the top, damn, news travels fast
Cause I'm like that, they can't see this
Read my book, it contains many pieces of verses
I took the time to delete all the curses
So moms reach deep in your purses
And buy me, take me home and try me and do me well
One for all
(Brand Nubian)
It's all for one
(Brand Nubian)
One for all
(Brand Nubian)
It's all for one
(Brand Nubian)
[Verse 3: Lord Jamar]
Well, while I reign rhymes pour
You suck it up like a straw and jump on the dance floor
Cause every time I step in a jam
I make like a door and slam
But then girls try to turn my knob cause I'm a heart throb
I guess it's just a hazard that comes with the job
Cause every time I rock a rhyme that shows Jamar is intellectual
Girls want to get sexual
Well I guess I have to cope with being so dope
You want to be me, but can't see me with a telescope
You seek and search but still you can't find
You're weak and it hurts to be deaf, dumb and blind
A supreme mind will take you out of your paralysis
I grip the mic so tight I get callouses
And your analysis is that the Lord
Whips rhymes into shape with a mic cord
I do it good cause I'm a positive black man
Eating up suckers as if I was Pacman
Not a Dapper Dan fan, I stay casual
To rock like the J it comes gradual
You got to know the ledge to wise the dumb
And understand your culture of freedom
Power equally with the Gods
So you can build and born your cipher
All your life you must teach truth
Of the true and living God, not a mystery spook
And when you do that, pursue that goal
Which made the student enroll and only then you'll prosper
One for all
It's all for one
One for all
It's all for one
It's all for one
It's all for one
It's all for one
It's all for one
One for all
rubber chicken
[Verse 1: Grand Puba]
I hit a beat and swing a note as if my name was David Ruffin
Quick to toast an MC just like an English muffin
Don't worry about a thing because the Puba's never bluffing
I gets headaches from the wack, so then I take a Bufferin and I max
I wait until the opportune time and then I tax but should I max?
Now they say sinning is for sinners so I guess I'm not a sinner
Beginning's for beginners so I guess I'm no beginner
This is how I spark it, puts money in my pocket
When it comes to having pleasure I gets hard as a rocket
MC Grand Pu coming through all the residue
The songs remain classics dating back to the Babalu
My boys I call 'em Akh, the foes I let 'em jock
And I can think of many episodes I swung in Lincoln Park
No I'm not a phony and I got a tenderoni
Love the way she is - not too fat, not too bony
Don't drink Sanka, won't sink like a tanker
Knock the boots off a skirt in Casablanca and I thank her
Some rappers stink like Engelbert Humperdinck
Better yet Dick Cavett, I got a bad habit
Similar to the girl on She's Gotta Have It
I think with the brain and not what’s behind the zipper
I'm living kinda good similar to Jack Tripper
A landlord named Roper did a show at the Copa
When I'm finished with this I'll be paid like Oprah
So if honey wants to act fly
I'll just play like Guy and I'm (saying, "bye, bye, dumb bitch!")
Stick out your thumb and hitch
Cause you've been cut off like a light switch
See I'm programmed to slam, winter, summer, spring or fall
Before I do a show I get some kicks out the mall
Then I get my gear and I give Trev a call
Cause he works in the barbershop, right behind the mall
Other rappers tried to rob me but you know they got did
To put it blunt, honey I shrunk the kids
So bookers back off break North here comes the regulator
Betcha that you find none greater
[Verse 2: Sadat X]
On file is a style, that's why you caught a clip
My suitcases is packed and I'm going on a trip
To Mic-a-delphia I go for self and still be slamming
The school bell is ringing and I caught somebody cramming
For the test, oh yes, my study guide was thick
I cut you with my verbal, didn't hurt you just a nick
Off your face, don't play possum watch me and I'll blossom
Like a rose and get some new clothes
And a fresh fade from Rob
Jamar on the phone and now the Now Rule Mob
The come one, come all, we about to get hectic
If my crew don't get in, then the X makes a exit
To the rear, I'm outta here, don't front on my brothers
I take care of them before I take care of others
The wood bats is doomed, in the 90's it's aluminum
Step to the stage with a mic and I'm doing 'em something awful
I'm a citizen and I'm lawful
I go to Hunter in the fall, rip the policemen's ball
I got the power to make a car stall
I get some drinks from Glackens, and when the crowd slackens
I stop drinking and then I start thinking about
Days in the past when Derek X was last
But now I'm on the top, damn, news travels fast
Cause I'm like that, they can't see this
Read my book, it contains many pieces of verses
I took the time to delete all the curses
So moms reach deep in your purses
And buy me, take me home and try me and do me well
[Verse 3: Lord Jamar]
Well, while I reign rhymes pour
You suck it up like a straw and jump on the dance floor
Cause every time I step in a jam
I make like a door and slam
But then girls try to turn my knob cause I'm a heart throb
I guess it's just a hazard that comes with the job
Cause every time I rock a rhyme that shows Jamar is intellectual
Girls want to get sexual
Well I guess I have to cope with being so dope
You want to be me, but can't see me with a telescope
You seek and search but still you can't find
You're weak and it hurts to be deaf, dumb and blind
A supreme mind will take you out of your paralysis
I grip the mic so tight I get callouses
And your analysis is that the Lord
Whips rhymes into shape with a mic cord
I do it good cause I'm a positive black man
Eating up suckers as if I was PacMan
Not a Dapper Dan fan, I stay casual
To rock like the J it comes gradual
You got to know the ledge to wise the dumb
And understand your culture of freedom
Power equally with the Gods
So you can build and born your cipher
All your life you must teach truth
Of the true and living God, not a mystery spook
And when you do that, pursue that goal
Which made the student enroll and only then you'll prosper
theWord 757
100% pure hip hop kiddos... they don’t make em like this anymore
Nilda Bridgeman
Absolutely
Aidan Fox
I'm 17 and I listen to this kind of hip hop.
speshal k mf
@Aidan Fox respect. Me too. I'm 23 tho. This is real rap. Fuck the new stuff
Aidan Fox
@speshal k mf who was your favorite rappers growing up in the late 90s and early 00s?
SanctusDeus Cruor
Cant nobody call you a liar fam! 100% facts.
rpaul247
I played this album to death when it came out. Quintessential classic
Nino Brown
Broke the CD ..WORE IT OUT!!!
Patti Cage aka Pattibear Sweet P or Pa-Ti
me too, I even took it to parties playing dj back when it was one turntable, no mic!
Logical Blackman
This might be the greatest loop in all of hip hop. It’s just so quintessentially hip hop. Simple as hell. Just one bar. Even got a crackle in the record. Sample it, chop it, loop it; add an 808 kick and that’s a wrap. Or should I say “rap.”