There is more than one artist with this name: a German rapper, a Latin pop … Read Full Bio ↴There is more than one artist with this name: a German rapper, a Latin pop act, a post-punk band and a prog rock band from Australia.

1) German rapper Anis Ferchichi who was born on September 28, 1978 in Bonn. His rap is strongly influenced by French Gangsta Rap. He is also known as Sonny Black.
Early Life:
Bushido has a Tunisian father and a German mother. However, he was raised in Berlin by his mother and never got to know his father.

Musical Career:
In 2000 he began his musical career. He gained recognition through King Orgasmus One and his works on several "I Luv Money Records"-Releases. Soon he released his first tape King Of Kingz. This led to him moving to a new label Aggro Berlin, where he worked with Sido, B-Tight, and Fler. The album was later released on CD in 2003 as King Of Kingz (Digital Remastered) and in 2004 as the King of Kingz 2004 Edition with some remixes. In 2002 he released the legendary milestone underground-album Carlo Cokxxx Nutten under his pseudonym, Sonny Black (arguably in the same manner as Eminem), in which he worked with Fler also known as Frank White.

His first Solo-Album was released in 2003, which is called "Vom Bordstein bis zur Skyline". This album had a lot of good reviews and was titled the first real Gangster Rap album in Germany. It was an enormous success for what was still basically an underground release.

Because of artistic differences regarding his future solo career, he left his label, Aggro Berlin, in the summer of 2004 and was taken under contract by Urban/Universal. In 2004, together with Ilan, he produced a remix of the industrial metal group Rammstein's song Amerika. In October 2004 he released his third album Electro Ghetto which reached number six on the German charts. On April 4, 2005 he released his fourth LP in two and half years, Carlo Cokxxx Nutten II, once again using his alter ego Sonny Black and working with Baba Saad in replacement of Fler.

In the winter of 2004/2005, he played a central role in a dispute with the rapper Eko Fresh and also made the song "FLERräter" against his former colleague at Aggro Berlin Fler (a play on the word Verräter, which means traitor).

Legal trouble found its way into his life following a party in Linz, Austria on July 30th, 2005. Upon discovery that his tyres had been slashed, he and two of his bodyguards were involved in a physical altercation with a 20 year old male, who was left with severe head injuries. Bushido spent 15 days in jail before being released on €100,000 bail. He faces a 3 year sentence if convicted.

On the judgemend day he released his Album "Staatsfeind Nr.1" (Public Enemy Nr. 1).
Most people called his time in jail a big promotion for this Album.

The second sampler ersguterjunge Sampler Vol. 2 - Vendetta was released the 1st of December 2006. It features artists who are signed to his Label ersguterjunge. The only single of the Sampler is called "Vendetta" and features Bushido, Eko Fresh and Chakuza.

In 2007 he won another ECHO-award as best hip hop/rap artist. His albums have earned platinum status in Germany, making him the most successful rapper ever in his homeland.

The album, 7 was released on August 31st, 2007 in Germany. As of August 24th, 7 has already pre-sold 100,000 copies in Germany, making it a gold record.

Bushido released his Biography Bushido on 8 September 2008 and his 8th album Heavy Metal Payback was released on 10 October. The singles are: "Ching Ching" and "Für immer jung" (which features Karel Gott).

Controversy:
Somewhat ironically, Bushido's admirers include both immigrants and extreme right-wing youth, which has drawn caution and criticism in Germany. He is often criticized in the media for his allegedly sexist, nationalist, and racist lyrics and for refusing to reject some of his controversial fans. However, some point to his partial North African ethnicity and collaboration with minority artists, like Azad, Eko Fresh, and Cassandra Steen, as evidence Bushido is not racist.

2) 'Bushido' is the name of a one-shot collaboration between some of the best known singer/songwriters from the current generation of rock singers in Spain. The singers involved in the Bushido project are: Búnbury, Carlos Ann, Shuarma and Mortí. They sat together for a couple of weeks and came out with a collection of pop-rock songs that showcase each of their styles and thematic inclinations.

3)Bushido were an obscure post-punk band from the early 80's similar in style to early Cabaret Voltaire/Eric Random etc.

4) Bushido are a progressive rock, three piece from Melbourne, Australia. They have released 2 EP's entitled 'Last Breath' and 'Mercina'. They play music in a similar vein to other Australian bands such as 'The Butterfly Effect', 'Cog' and 'Karnivool'. They are currently writing songs for their debut album set to be released early 2008.

Est. 1998
Bushido Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

Seit 1998 bin ich im Geschäft
Es geht nicht nur um Erfolge, doch sie geben mir recht
Kellerstaub auf den goldnen Awards und Trophäen
Die Kunst ist die richtigen Worte zu wählen
Denn seit '98 such' ich meinesgleichen
Versuch zu kopieren, das hier kannst du nicht erreichen
Ich komm' nur zu dir, um deine Stadt zu zerreißen
Junge, ich mach' diesen Scheiß schon ein Weilchen, seit 1998

Und jeder sieht
Meine Unterarme erzählen inzwischen ein paar Geschichten, die das Leben schrieb
Wer raffiniert hat, taktiert triumphiert
Frau und Kids schlafen, ich mache den Beat bis um vier, yeah
Business läuft, so wie Karawanen, yeah
Samra, Capital, hungrig wie Ramadan
Nie wieder in mei'm Leben begeh' ich dieselben Fehler
Lieber dreißig Jahre Knast wie Nelson Mandela
EGJ, nein, wir sind nicht zu schlagen
Sorry, aber Fakten sind indiskutabel
Ich hol' mir meinen Besitz ohne Rücksicht auf Verluste
Ich wurde jetzt glücklich, weil ich musste, yeah
Diese Hunde sind Kopien, es gibt Hunderte von ihnen
Doch nur ich nehme den Raum ein wie dunkle Energie, yeah
Bild dir nicht ein, dass ich frag', ich verlag' es
Sie reden viel zu viel, auch wenn der Tag nicht mal lang ist
Machtstellung unangefochten, seit ihr denken könnt
Und meine Brüder haben mir nicht mal einen Cent gegönnt
Verkehrte Welt, doch ich stell' sie auf den Kopf
Bis es endlich wieder passt, dreh' im Bentley um den Block, yeah
Immer an der Spitze, doch nie, weil ich Glück hab'
Ja, ich bin jetzt vierzig, Zielgruppe Mütter, yeah
Du musst deinen Mann in dieser Prüfung stehen
King Bushido, der Mythos lebt

Seit 1998 bin ich im Geschäft
Es geht nicht nur um Erfolge, doch sie geben mir recht
Kellerstaub auf den goldnen Awards und Trophäen
Die Kunst ist die richtigen Worte zu wählen
Denn seit '98 such' ich meinesgleichen
Versuch zu kopieren, das hier kannst du nicht erreichen
Ich komm' nur zu dir, um deine Stadt zu zerreißen
Junge, ich mach' diesen Scheiß schon ein Weilchen, seit 1998

Damals fing es an mit Tapes ticken
Heute könnt' ich, wenn ich wollt', die ganze Welt ficken
Pack und Gesindel, Mann, da fehlen dir die Worte
Ich bring' eine Single, selbst Amerika supportet
Push' ihn bis ins Orbit, mein MPC-Sound
Spiel' im Loop paar Akkorde und die Fans ticken aus, yeah
Viel zu lange mitgemacht, Krisen kam um Mitternacht
Willst du den Charakter eines Menschen sehen, gib ihm Macht
Seit ich Sonny Black heiße, biten sie meinen Flavour
Und ihr seid immer noch nicht mehr als ein paar Raver
Das hier ist für jeden, der seit Tag eins dabei ist
Egal, wer mein Feind ist, er weiß, dass er Blei frisst
Yeah, es kann nicht immer nur bergauf gehen
Man trifft Entscheidungen, lässt Dinge ihren Lauf nehmen
Zurück zu altem Glanz, alter Dominanz
Wieder alle auf mei'm Schwanz, komm, wir spalten jetzt das Land
Nur Asse auf der Hand, darum hassen sie mich
Ignoranz, denn das B ist eine Klasse für sich
Traditionsverein, das sind Multimillionen-Deals
Ich rapp' eine Strophe ein, spuck' auf sie und schon ist Krieg
Jedes Steak könnte vergiftet sein
Tipp' in mein Handy und es geht in die Geschichte ein, so ist die Eins
Dich würd' die Wahrheit an die Wand drücken
Wie das Tattoo auf meinem Handrücken

Seit 1998 bin ich im Geschäft
Es geht nicht nur um Erfolge, doch sie geben mir recht
Kellerstaub auf den goldnen Awards und Trophäen
Die Kunst ist die richtigen Worte zu wählen
Denn seit '98 such' ich meinesgleichen
Versuch zu kopieren, das hier kannst du nicht erreichen

Ich komm' nur zu dir, um deine Stadt zu zerreißen
Junge, ich mach' diesen Scheiß schon ein Weilchen, seit 1998

Overall Meaning

These lyrics from Bushido's song "Est. 1998" reflect his long-lasting presence and success in the music industry since 1998. He emphasizes that his achievements, represented by golden awards and trophies, validate his talent and hard work. Despite his accomplishments, he acknowledges that true artistry lies in selecting the right words to convey meaning and emotion. He proclaims that since '98, he has been searching for someone of his caliber but has yet to find a worthy contender. Any attempts to imitate his style and success are futile and cannot be achieved.

Bushido boasts about his experiences and the stories his forearms tell, which are a testament to the journey he has undertaken in his life. He stands out as someone who is strategic and cunning, celebrating triumphs and working on his craft until the early hours of the morning. The business side of his career thrives, comparing it to the smooth and continuous movement of a caravan. He mentions other artists like Samra and Capital, indicating their shared hunger for success. He avows to never repeat past mistakes, valuing his integrity and refusal to compromise his principles, even if it means enduring hardship comparable to Nelson Mandela's thirty-year imprisonment.

The lyrics also shed light on the loyalty and camaraderie within Bushido's circle, as he affirms that his crew, EGJ, is unstoppable and insurmountable. He disregards any attempts to question their factual achievements. They accumulate wealth without considering losses and attain happiness through necessity. He asserts that while many individuals may try to imitate him, he possesses a unique energy that distinguishes him from others. Additionally, he criticizes individuals who speak excessively, regardless of the length of a day, without taking substantial action.

Bushido claims an unchallenged position of power that has existed since people can remember and implies that his brothers have not shown him any financial support, alluding to the paradoxical nature of the world. However, he vows to disrupt and overturn this distorted reality. He will drive through the streets in his luxurious Bentley until things fit back into place. He maintains a perpetual presence at the top of the game, attributing it not to luck but to his persistence and talent. He also acknowledges his changing demographic, targeting middle-aged mothers as his audience.

He advises his listeners to stand firm in challenging situations, referring to himself as King Bushido and emphasizing that his mythical status lives on. He references his initiation into the industry with the selling of mixtapes in the past, contrasting it with his current ability to have a global impact. He dismisses those of lesser significance, stating that they lack the words to describe his greatness. He receives international support, and his music resonates with fans worldwide. He taunts those who have attempted to emulate his style, claiming they are no more than a few ravers. He highlights the loyalty and dedication of his long-time fans, acknowledging that even his enemies know they will face consequences for challenging him.

Bushido acknowledges that life is not always smooth sailing, illustrating the need to make difficult decisions and allow events to unfold naturally. He yearns to regain his former glory and dominance and anticipates the frenzy that will follow, with everyone once again paying attention to his every move. He asserts that his adversaries hate him because he is superior, implying that their struggle against him is futile. Despite potential risks and threats, he remains fearless and resilient. He concludes the lyrics by remarking that the truth would overpower and expose anyone who opposes him, using the image of the tattoo on his hand as a metaphorical representation of this declaration.

Line by Line Meaning

Seit 1998 bin ich im Geschäft
I have been in the business since 1998

Es geht nicht nur um Erfolge, doch sie geben mir recht
It's not just about success, but it proves me right

Kellerstaub auf den goldnen Awards und Trophäen
Dust from the basement on golden awards and trophies

Die Kunst ist die richtigen Worte zu wählen
The art is to choose the right words

Denn seit '98 such' ich meinesgleichen
Because since '98, I've been looking for someone like me

Versuch zu kopieren, das hier kannst du nicht erreichen
Trying to copy, you can't achieve this

Ich komm' nur zu dir, um deine Stadt zu zerreißen
I only come to your city to tear it apart

Junge, ich mach' diesen Scheiß schon ein Weilchen, seit 1998
Boy, I've been doing this shit for a while, since 1998

Und jeder sieht
And everyone can see

Meine Unterarme erzählen inzwischen ein paar Geschichten, die das Leben schrieb
My forearms now tell a few stories that life wrote

Wer raffiniert hat, taktiert triumphiert
Whoever is cunning, strategizes, and triumphs

Frau und Kids schlafen, ich mache den Beat bis um vier, yeah
Wife and kids are sleeping, I'm making the beat until four, yeah

Business läuft, so wie Karawanen, yeah
Business is running, like caravans, yeah

Samra, Capital, hungrig wie Ramadan
Samra, Capital, hungry like Ramadan

Nie wieder in mei'm Leben begeh' ich dieselben Fehler
Never again in my life will I make the same mistakes

Lieber dreißig Jahre Knast wie Nelson Mandela
Better thirty years in prison like Nelson Mandela

EGJ, nein, wir sind nicht zu schlagen
EGJ, no, we cannot be defeated

Sorry, aber Fakten sind indiskutabel
Sorry, but facts are indisputable

Ich hol' mir meinen Besitz ohne Rücksicht auf Verluste
I get what's mine without regard for losses

Ich wurde jetzt glücklich, weil ich musste, yeah
I got happy now because I had to, yeah

Diese Hunde sind Kopien, es gibt Hunderte von ihnen
These dogs are copies, there are hundreds of them

Doch nur ich nehme den Raum ein wie dunkle Energie, yeah
But only I occupy space like dark energy, yeah

Bild dir nicht ein, dass ich frag', ich verlag' es
Don't think I'm asking, I'm shifting it

Sie reden viel zu viel, auch wenn der Tag nicht mal lang ist
They talk too much, even though the day isn't long

Machtstellung unangefochten, seit ihr denken könnt
Undisputed position of power, since you can remember

Und meine Brüder haben mir nicht mal einen Cent gegönnt
And my brothers didn't even grant me a penny

Verkehrte Welt, doch ich stell' sie auf den Kopf
Upside-down world, but I turn it around

Bis es endlich wieder passt, dreh' im Bentley um den Block, yeah
Until it fits again, I'll drive around the block in a Bentley, yeah

Immer an der Spitze, doch nie, weil ich Glück hab'
Always at the top, but never because of luck

Ja, ich bin jetzt vierzig, Zielgruppe Mütter, yeah
Yes, I'm forty now, target group mothers, yeah

Du musst deinen Mann in dieser Prüfung stehen
You have to stand your ground in this test

King Bushido, der Mythos lebt
King Bushido, the myth lives

Damals fing es an mit Tapes ticken
Back then it started with selling tapes

Heute könnt' ich, wenn ich wollt', die ganze Welt ficken
Today, if I wanted, I could fuck the whole world

Pack und Gesindel, Mann, da fehlen dir die Worte
Pack and riff-raff, man, there are no words for it

Ich bring' eine Single, selbst Amerika supportet
I release a single, even America supports it

Push' ihn bis ins Orbit, mein MPC-Sound
Push it to the orbit, my MPC sound

Spiel' im Loop paar Akkorde und die Fans ticken aus, yeah
Play a few chords on loop and the fans go crazy, yeah

Viel zu lange mitgemacht, Krisen kamen um Mitternacht
Been doing it for way too long, crises came at midnight

Willst du den Charakter eines Menschen sehen, gib ihm Macht
If you want to see a person's character, give them power

Seit ich Sonny Black heiße, biten sie meinen Flavour
Since I'm called Sonny Black, they bite my flavor

Und ihr seid immer noch nicht mehr als ein paar Raver
And you're still not more than a few ravers

Das hier ist für jeden, der seit Tag eins dabei ist
This is for everyone who has been there since day one

Egal, wer mein Feind ist, er weiß, dass er Blei frisst
No matter who my enemy is, he knows he's eating lead

Yeah, es kann nicht immer nur bergauf gehen
Yeah, it can't always go uphill

Man trifft Entscheidungen, lässt Dinge ihren Lauf nehmen
You make decisions, let things take their course

Zurück zu altem Glanz, alter Dominanz
Back to old glory, old dominance

Wieder alle auf mei'm Schwanz, komm, wir spalten jetzt das Land
Everyone on my dick again, come on, let's divide the country

Nur Asse auf der Hand, darum hassen sie mich
Only aces in my hand, that's why they hate me

Ignoranz, denn das B ist eine Klasse für sich
Ignorance, because the B is in a class of its own

Traditionsverein, das sind Multimillionen-Deals
Traditional club, those are multimillion deals

Ich rapp' eine Strophe ein, spuck' auf sie und schon ist Krieg
I rap a verse, spit on them, and war begins

Jedes Steak könnte vergiftet sein
Every steak could be poisoned

Tipp' in mein Handy und es geht in die Geschichte ein, so ist die Eins
Type it into my phone and it becomes part of history, that's how it goes

Dich würd' die Wahrheit an die Wand drücken
The truth would squeeze you against the wall

Wie das Tattoo auf meinem Handrücken
Like the tattoo on the back of my hand