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.
Try to Do Me
Brand Nubian Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
You tried to do me
You tried to do me (But see baby)
I am not the one (I am not the one baby)
You tried to do me (You tried to do me)
You tried to do me
You tried to do me
Why you want to live so foul?
You know sweatin', one for some, is not my style
I'm the type to wine and dine in the candlelight
'Cause just one night could be just so right
Your first riff, is that I'm never home
And you're sick and tired of being alone
But baby I got work to do
And ain't no-one gonna stop me from being Pu'
I buy you rings and things and all that good stuff
But you still beefin' that that is not enough
Let's sit down and discuss it
Baby bust it
You check my beeper when I'm still sleepin'
When I get out of cars you're out your window peepin'
I think the best thing for you and me
Is just to play like John Lennon and 'Let It Be'
You tried to do me
You tried to do me
You tried to do me
You tried to do me (But see baby)
I am not the one (I am not the one)
You tried to do me (You tried to do me)
You tried to do me
You tried to do me
But I am not the one
Ay bust it
I would sing the song called just be my lady
But you're the type of girl who likes to act real shady
And rain on the brain like a hurricane
Throw rhythm on a dame, 'cause I know the game
You see, I'm just a rapper and nothing's free so
"Why are you watchin' me?"
Well honey can I get some privacy?
You say cool, then you try to flip
But you forgot to put the Gucci bag upon your hip
You knew me, you blew me, others would pursue me
The question that I ask is why you, tryin' to do me?
Make like a ship and just float on (Float on)
I'm not the type of brother that you can just gig on
I know the time honey, there it is plain to see
You're tryin' to do me
You tried to do me
You tried to do me
You tried to do me (But see baby)
I am not the one (I am not the one)
You tried to do me
You tried to do me
You tried to do me
But I am not the one
Now see baby, I don't know why you tryin' to flip and all of that
'Cause I'm out here tryin' to do my thing
And get these papes in today's society,
You know what I'm sayin'?
I'm tryin' to make things a little better
But if you want to make matters worse
Let me say this first
There's no need for you to try to do me
You tried to do me
You tried to do me
You tried to do me (But see baby)
I am not the one (I am not the one)
You tried to do me
You tried to do me
You tried to do me
But I am not the one
And now check it, I'mma end it like this
Now good times come, honey good times go
I think this is somethin' that you really oughta know
The name of the game is to maintain
'Cause when you lose someone you love, then you feel pain
It's up to you to decide if the love was worth losin'
To me you're not the everyday, Tina, Tammy, Susan
Why can't you, understand?
Instead of tryin' to run the flim-flam on the grand
Baby, do whatever is clever
'Cause we can make this last, forever and ever
With joy there's pain
But don't you worry about the Puba Maxwell, 'cause I can stand the rain
Shoo-be-doo, this is what you oughta do
Think of all the things that I just told you
Remember all the times when I used to hold you and say
We can last through eternity
But don't ever try to do me
The lyrics to the song "Try to Do Me" by Brand Nubian talk about a relationship in trouble as the rapper talks to his girlfriend, who is accusing him of being unfaithful and cheating on her. He tries to explain that he is not that type of person and that he cannot tolerate her surveillance and jealousy. He also emphasizes his commitment to his work and suggests that it is not his fault that he cannot always be around. The chorus repeatedly states, "You tried to do me, but I am not the one," with the refrain showing his refusal to take the blame for the situation's problems.
The lyrics express a deeper message about love and trust in relationships. The rapper is trying to let his girlfriend know that he is not the kind of person she is assuming him to be. He has demonstrated his fidelity by buying her gifts and trying to communicate, but it is not enough for her. The chorus shows his determination to break off this relationship with someone who has a different idea of a relationship than he does. The song concludes by suggesting that one should consider whether the love is worth losing before making a hasty decision.
Line by Line Meaning
You tried to do me
The singer is accusing their partner of trying to deceive or take advantage of them.
You tried to do me (But see baby)
The singer acknowledges the attempted deception, but is not fooled by it.
I am not the one (I am not the one baby)
The singer asserts that they cannot be deceived and will not be taken advantage of.
Why you want to live so foul?
The artist questions why their partner is behaving in a dishonest or immoral manner.
You know sweatin', one for some, is not my style
The artist explains that they are not interested in cheating, as it goes against their personal values.
I'm the type to wine and dine in the candlelight
The singer prefers romantic, classy settings for dates and seduction.
'Cause just one night could be just so right
The singer believes that one perfect date can be enough to spark a lasting romance.
Your first riff, is that I'm never home
The partner's initial complaint is that the artist is not around enough.
And you're sick and tired of being alone
The partner is unhappy with feeling lonely in the relationship.
But baby I got work to do
The artist explains that they have obligations that require their attention and time.
And ain't no-one gonna stop me from being Pu'
The singer prioritizes their identity as an individual and artist above their romantic commitments.
I buy you rings and things and all that good stuff
The artist has tried to show their partner love and appreciation through material gifts.
But you still beefin' that that is not enough
The partner is unsatisfied with the gifts and believes more is necessary.
Let's sit down and discuss it
The singer proposes an open discussion to try to understand and resolve the partner's dissatisfaction.
Baby bust it
The singer urges their partner to be honest and forthcoming in their communication.
You check my beeper when I'm still sleepin'
The partner has invaded the artist's privacy by snooping through their electronics.
When I get out of cars you're out your window peepin'
The partner is suspicious and paranoid of the artist's activities.
I think the best thing for you and me
The singer suggests a solution to the problems and tensions in their relationship.
Is just to play like John Lennon and 'Let It Be'
They should let go of their issues and move on, like in the song 'Let It Be' by The Beatles.
Ay bust it
The artist interjects with a casual statement to grab their partner's attention.
I would sing the song called just be my lady
The artist references a romantic song, but the partner's behavior prevents them from enjoying and expressing that love.
But you're the type of girl who likes to act real shady
The partner has a history of being dishonest or deceitful.
And rain on the brain like a hurricane
The partner's negative thoughts and emotions are overwhelming like a storm.
Throw rhythm on a dame, 'cause I know the game
The artist is confident in their knowledge and skill in pursuing romantic relationships.
You see, I'm just a rapper and nothing's free so
The singer acknowledges their profession and the financial demands it places on them.
"Why are you watchin' me?"
The singer asks their partner why they are being monitored or followed.
Well honey can I get some privacy?
The singer asserts their right to privacy and autonomy.
You say cool, then you try to flip
The partner initially agrees with the artist's requests, but then tries to change the situation to their benefit.
But you forgot to put the Gucci bag upon your hip
The partner made a mistake or oversight in their efforts to deceive.
You knew me, you blew me, others would pursue me
The partner had a chance to build a meaningful relationship, but their actions have pushed the singer away and attracted others.
The question that I ask is why you, tryin' to do me?
The singer questions their partner's motives and intentions for trying to deceive or hurt them.
Make like a ship and just float on (Float on)
The artist suggests that the partner should let go of their negative behaviors and move on.
I'm not the type of brother that you can just gig on
The artist asserts their self-respect and the importance of being treated well in a relationship.
I know the time honey, there it is plain to see
The artist understands the reality of the situation and can see things clearly.
Now see baby, I don't know why you tryin' to flip and all of that
The singer addresses their partner's behavior and expresses confusion as to why things have taken a negative turn.
'Cause I'm out here tryin' to do my thing
The artist is pursuing their goals and aspirations in life.
And get these papes in today's society,
The singer is working hard to achieve financial success in modern society.
You know what I'm sayin'?
The singer looks for agreement or understanding from their partner.
If you want to make matters worse
The singer warns that the partner's negative behavior will only escalate the situation.
Let me say this first
The artist wants to reiterate their point and emphasize its importance.
There's no need for you to try to do me
The artist repeats that their partner does not need to deceive or take advantage of them.
Now good times come, honey good times go
The singer reflects on the nature of relationships and the ups and downs that come with them.
I think this is somethin' that you really oughta know
The singer believes that their message is important and needs to be heard.
The name of the game is to maintain
The artist believes that the key to a successful relationship is to maintain and work on it.
'Cause when you lose someone you love, then you feel pain
The artist warns of the emotional pain that comes with losing someone you love.
It's up to you to decide if the love was worth losin'
The artist puts the power in the partner's hands to decide if their actions are worth losing the relationship.
To me you're not the everyday, Tina, Tammy, Susan
The singer values their partner and sees them as unique and special, not just an average girl.
Why can't you, understand?
The artist expresses frustration that their partner doesn't seem to comprehend the importance of the relationship.
Instead of tryin' to run the flim-flam on the grand
The partner should stop trying to deceive or manipulate the singer and instead work with them honestly.
Baby, do whatever is clever
The singer suggests that their partner be creative or resourceful in addressing their issues.
'Cause we can make this last, forever and ever
The singer believes that with effort and honesty, the relationship can last forever.
With joy there's pain
The artist acknowledges that there will be both happy and sad times in the relationship.
But don't you worry about the Puba Maxwell, 'cause I can stand the rain
The artist assures their partner that they are strong enough to handle any difficulties that arise.
Shoo-be-doo, this is what you oughta do
The singer uses casual language and a catchy phrase to offer advice to their partner.
Think of all the things that I just told you
The partner should reflect on the singer's words and try to understand where they are coming from.
Remember all the times when I used to hold you and say
The artist reminds their partner of the good times in their relationship and the moments of affection.
We can last through eternity
The artist believes that their love can endure forever, if they both work towards it.
But don't ever try to do me
The artist reiterates that their partner should not try to deceive or hurt them.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: MAXWELL DIXON
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Limits98
Lyrics
[Intro]
"Ugh, ugh, ugh, ugh"
"Ugh, ugh, ugh, ugh"
[Chorus]
You tried to do me, you tried to do me (Tried to do me, God)
You tried to do me, but I am not the one
(But see baby, I am not the one, baby)
You tried to do me, you tried to do me (You tried to do me)
You tried to do me, but I am not the one
(Yeah, yo, check this out)
[Verse 1: Grand Puba Maxwell]
Why you wanna live so foul?
You know, sweating, one for some, is not my style
I'm the type to wine and dine and the candlelight
Cause just one night could be just so right
Your first riff is that I'm never home
And you're sick and tired of being alone
But baby, I got work to do
And ain't no one gonna stop me from being Pu'
I buy you rings and things and all that good stuff
But you still beefing that that is not enough
Let's sit down and discuss it
Baby bust it (Hey, hey)
You check my beeper when I'm still sleeping
When I get out of cars, you're out your window peeping
I think the best thing for you and me
Is just to play like John Lennon and let it be
You tried to do me
[Chorus]
You tried to do me, you tried to do me (Yeah, but you see baby)
You tried to do me, but I am not the one (I am not the one)
You tried to do me, you tried to do me (You tried to do me, yeah)
You tried to do me, but I am not the one (Ay, bust it)
[Verse 2: Grand Puba Maxwell]
I would sing the song called, "Just Be My Lady"
But you're the type of girl who likes to act real shady
And rain on the brain like a hurricane
Throw rhythm on a dame, 'cause I know the game
You see, I'm just a rapper and nothing's free so...
"Why are you watching me?"
Well honey, can I get some privacy?
You say "cool," then you try to flip
But you forgot to put the Gucci bag upon your hip
You knew me, you blew me, others would pursue me
The question that I ask is why you, trying to do me?
Make like a ship and just float on (Float on)
I'm not the type of brother that you can just gig on
I know the time honey, there it is plain to see
You're trying to do me
[Hook]
You tried to do me, you tried to do me (You tried to do me)
(Yeah, but you see baby) You tried to do me, but I am not the one
(I am not the one)
You tried to do me, you tried to do me (I ain't having it)
You tried to do me, but I am not the one (Yeah)
[Interlude]
"Ugh, ugh, ugh, ugh"
"Ugh, ugh, ugh, ugh"
Now see, baby
I don't know why you trying to flip and all of that
Cause I'm out here trying to do my thing and get these papes in today's society
You know what I'm saying?
I'm trying to make things a little better
But if you wanna make matters worse, let me say this first
There's no need for you to try to do me
[Chorus]
You tried to do me, you tried to do me (You tried to do me, honey)
(You tried to do me, babe) You tried to do me, but I am not the one
(But you see, I am not the one)
You tried to do me, you tried to do me (You tried to do me)
(Yeah) You tried to do me, but I am not the one
(And now check it, I'm a end it like this)
[Verse 3: Grand Puba Maxwell]
Good times come, honey, good times go
I think this is something that you really oughta know
The name of the game is to maintain
Cause when you lose someone you love, then you feel pain
It's up to you to decide if the love was worth losing
To me you're not the everyday, Tina, Tammy, Susan
Why can't you, understand?
Instead of trying to run the flim-flam on the Grand
Baby, do whatever is clever
Cause we can make this last forever and ever (Make it last forever, oh yeah)
With joys, there's pain
But don't you worry about the Puba Maxwell, cause I can stand the rain
Shoo-be-doo, this is what you oughta do
Think of all the things that I just told you
Remember all the times when I used to hold you and say
We can last through eternity
But don't ever try to do me
[Outro]
"Ugh, ugh, ugh, ugh"
"Ugh, ugh, ugh, ugh"
"Ugh, ugh, ugh, ugh"
"Ugh, ugh, ugh, ugh"
Limits98
Lyrics
[Intro]
"Ugh, ugh, ugh, ugh"
"Ugh, ugh, ugh, ugh"
[Chorus]
You tried to do me, you tried to do me (Tried to do me, God)
You tried to do me, but I am not the one
(But see baby, I am not the one, baby)
You tried to do me, you tried to do me (You tried to do me)
You tried to do me, but I am not the one
(Yeah, yo, check this out)
[Verse 1: Grand Puba Maxwell]
Why you wanna live so foul?
You know, sweating, one for some, is not my style
I'm the type to wine and dine and the candlelight
Cause just one night could be just so right
Your first riff is that I'm never home
And you're sick and tired of being alone
But baby, I got work to do
And ain't no one gonna stop me from being Pu'
I buy you rings and things and all that good stuff
But you still beefing that that is not enough
Let's sit down and discuss it
Baby bust it (Hey, hey)
You check my beeper when I'm still sleeping
When I get out of cars, you're out your window peeping
I think the best thing for you and me
Is just to play like John Lennon and let it be
You tried to do me
[Chorus]
You tried to do me, you tried to do me (Yeah, but you see baby)
You tried to do me, but I am not the one (I am not the one)
You tried to do me, you tried to do me (You tried to do me, yeah)
You tried to do me, but I am not the one (Ay, bust it)
[Verse 2: Grand Puba Maxwell]
I would sing the song called, "Just Be My Lady"
But you're the type of girl who likes to act real shady
And rain on the brain like a hurricane
Throw rhythm on a dame, 'cause I know the game
You see, I'm just a rapper and nothing's free so...
"Why are you watching me?"
Well honey, can I get some privacy?
You say "cool," then you try to flip
But you forgot to put the Gucci bag upon your hip
You knew me, you blew me, others would pursue me
The question that I ask is why you, trying to do me?
Make like a ship and just float on (Float on)
I'm not the type of brother that you can just gig on
I know the time honey, there it is plain to see
You're trying to do me
[Hook]
You tried to do me, you tried to do me (You tried to do me)
(Yeah, but you see baby) You tried to do me, but I am not the one
(I am not the one)
You tried to do me, you tried to do me (I ain't having it)
You tried to do me, but I am not the one (Yeah)
[Interlude]
"Ugh, ugh, ugh, ugh"
"Ugh, ugh, ugh, ugh"
Now see, baby
I don't know why you trying to flip and all of that
Cause I'm out here trying to do my thing and get these papes in today's society
You know what I'm saying?
I'm trying to make things a little better
But if you wanna make matters worse, let me say this first
There's no need for you to try to do me
[Chorus]
You tried to do me, you tried to do me (You tried to do me, honey)
(You tried to do me, babe) You tried to do me, but I am not the one
(But you see, I am not the one)
You tried to do me, you tried to do me (You tried to do me)
(Yeah) You tried to do me, but I am not the one
(And now check it, I'm a end it like this)
[Verse 3: Grand Puba Maxwell]
Good times come, honey, good times go
I think this is something that you really oughta know
The name of the game is to maintain
Cause when you lose someone you love, then you feel pain
It's up to you to decide if the love was worth losing
To me you're not the everyday, Tina, Tammy, Susan
Why can't you, understand?
Instead of trying to run the flim-flam on the Grand
Baby, do whatever is clever
Cause we can make this last forever and ever (Make it last forever, oh yeah)
With joys, there's pain
But don't you worry about the Puba Maxwell, cause I can stand the rain
Shoo-be-doo, this is what you oughta do
Think of all the things that I just told you
Remember all the times when I used to hold you and say
We can last through eternity
But don't ever try to do me
[Outro]
"Ugh, ugh, ugh, ugh"
"Ugh, ugh, ugh, ugh"
"Ugh, ugh, ugh, ugh"
"Ugh, ugh, ugh, ugh"
Jahaziel Goddard
What i really think is that puba was showing his versatility and it led him to solo album later and you hear him using the same lango and personality on other tracks.He was from the 80s before lord jamal and sadat x. But lord jamal and sadat kept the flag of this album later going on there later projects and mixed with a little wild life street awareness no mcee is 100 percent balance.
Perverted Alchemist
Although this was the weakest song on the "One For All" album, the song's producer Dave "Jam" Hall made up for it by making a laundry list of classic R&B singles from the early to mid 90's.
knoah carver
Standard 90s Album, 1 Reggae Song, 1 Love or R&B type song and possibly a Rock and Rock sounding cut! Real albums where artist wanted to show versatility.. no like today all song on album same BPMs same silly vibe… Puba rapping like hell! I grew up in this era. Everyone loved this cut and the Positive K joint
AndyCR75
46 years old here I grew up with this. This was absolute juvenile licorice trash. You know this is the same album with all for one and other the socially conscious tracks and then they throw this in here come on if y'all were loving this you were hanging with the wrong people. I'm sure right after this y'all listened to some Father MC
steven randazza
Sounds like the Martin theme song.
E. IRIZARRY
That's because Dave "Jam" Hall produced this song.
Risen Phoenix
That's because it's New Jack Swing style.
JDThinks
Vibes‼️
steven randazza
@Loyal Philly fan oh shit, I meant the In Living Color theme.