This group consisted also of his partner Webb. Following a fallout with his partner, Canibus pursued a solo career and began infiltrating the mix-tape circuit. By 1997, he had approached the brink of the major-label rap game, guesting regularly on high-profile releases: He contributed to "Uni-4-orm," an inclusion on the Rhyme & Reason soundtrack also featuring Heltah Skeltah and Rass Kass; "Love, Peace & Nappiness," an inclusion on the Lost Boyz's Love, Peace & Nappiness also featuring Redman and A+; "Making a Name for Ourselves," an inclusion on Common's One Day It'll All Make Sense; the non-album remix of Wyclef Jean's "Gone Till November."
And most famously, "4, 3, 2, 1," an inclusion on LL Cool J's Phenomenon also featuring Redman, DMX, and Method Man.
Of the several guest appearances, "4, 3, 2, 1" certainly meant the most, as it brought together many of New York's preeminent hardcore rappers and thus ushered Canibus into that same elite class. At the same time, however, Canibus lashed out shortly afterward with the Mike Tyson-featuring "Second Round K.O.," where he rhymed, "So I'ma let the world know the truth, you don't want me to shine/You studied my rhyme, then you laid your vocals after mine."
In fact, the entirety of the song directed barbed rhymes at LL: "You walk around showin' off your body cause it sells/Plus to avoid the fact that you ain't got skills/Mad at me 'cause I kick that sh*t real niggaz feel/While 99 percent of your fans wear high heels," and so on. Shortly thereafter, LL sought his revenge, releasing "The Ripper Strikes Back" on the Survival of the Illest soundtrack (1998) and thus channeling even more attention toward Canibus.
From the track's chorus ("Can-I-bus? Yes you can!") to practically every line of the verses ("You soft as a newborn baby takin' a nap/Make my dick hard with that bitch-ass track/Where you at? smokin' in some one-room flat/Suckin' on Clef's dick hopin' to come back"), LL unleashed a fury of insults and threats. The media, of course, elevated the battle to grand heights, as even MTV gave the story headlines. In the aftermath of 2Pac's and Biggie's deaths, such confrontations fascinated the rap community, and Canibus certainly capitalized on his newfound publicity.
As for his debut full-length, Can-i-bus (1998), though, the response was sobering. Critics expressed little support, and sales quickly dropped as listeners also felt genuinely disappointed. Executive produced by Wyclef, the album suffered on many levels, both production-wise and rhetorically as well (critics targeting Canibus' delivery more than his lyrics or themes). The momentum that "Second Round K.O." had generated simmered almost immediately, and it didn't help that LL's "Ripper Strikes Back" found substantial acceptance at the time as well.
In the two years following the release of Can-i-bus, the rapper maintained an extremely low profile, much in contrast to the regular guest appearances he had made leading up to his debut. As a result, when he finally did return with his follow-up album, 2000 B.C. (2000), few noticed, it came and went generally unheard, and Canibus returned to the underground after parting ways with Universal. He continued to record albums and release them on the independent circuit (including 2002's Mic Club, 2003's Rip the Jacker, and 2005's Mind Control); furthermore, he retained a small base of fans as well, yet his days as the next-big-thing had clearly come and gone, as they similarly had for so many other talented rappers.
Mind Control
Canibus Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
You're under my, you're under mind control
You know you're lost, don't even try to fight
You can't escape, I rule you day and night
You're under my, you're under mind control
(First Verse)
Been in this rap game since '96
And even though that might seem like a short time
I was never known for spitting a short rhyme
I'm known for my ill metaphors and lines
And I'm inspired by that little voice inside
That says, "Keep a strong mind and don't compromise"
Nothing happens before it's time, don't get off of the grind
See the game is cold, don't lose control
All the glitters ain't gold, you could lose your soul
I've been through it before, guess you live and you learn
Everyone takes turns getting what they deserve
It's like a revolving door as far as Canibus is concerned
Please believe it, I'ma get what I earned
As far as getting that dough, and everything else in my career goes
I'm completely in control, come on
(Chorus: Female singing)
(Canibus)
Now don't get it twisted, Canibus ain't getting Jiggy with it
I'm just dumbing it down for a minute
Went from Jersey to A-T-L, but then I relocated
Out to Cali on some one-way shit
Bought a cheap ticket and split
I'm in coach sitting next to this chick with some real voluptuous lips
She asked me if I can help her give her luggage a lift
After that, she wouldn't shut up for the rest of the trip
She said she thought I looked familiar, but she never caught on
I started nodding off, she was talking so long
Put my headphones on, then I went to sleep
Reclined the seat, thought about rhymes and beats
I thought about how I spent so much time in the East
And how my mind was never in peace
In the streets, if you want to that yellow-brick road
Paved with gold, you just gotta take control, come on
(Chorus: Female singing)
(Canibus)
I stepped off the plane, never want to sit in coach again
I can't deal with the neck-pain
Seen some guy holding up a sign with my name
What's up my main-man, where's baggage claim'
Took the elevator, I was physically drained
The chick from the plane said, 'bye' and started to wave
Man, I'm just happy to be in L.A.
Got my release papers from Universal/M.C.A
Now it's time to get that real paper, shake off the haters
They can't break us, we're Gladiators
World famous, my name is on the mind of all of the majors
Canibus is outrageous
Fans sing along when I perform on stages
Or when they hear my songs on they two-way pagers
They can't front, 'cause I broke the mold
And took a little time, but now I'm in control
(Female vocalizes the harmony until fade)
The lyrics to Canibus's song "Mind Control" explore the rapper's journey in the music industry, highlighting his unique style and approach to rap. Canibus starts by introducing himself and his lyrical abilities, emphasizing that he's not one to compromise on his style or take shortcuts. He draws inspiration from his inner voice, which encourages him to keep pushing and never give up.
Canibus reflects on the music industry and its competitive nature, warning others not to lose control and succumb to the pitfalls of the industry. He aims to maintain control over his career and finances, stressing that he won't let anyone else take control. Canibus also speaks about his travels, from New Jersey to Atlanta and eventually to California, where he's ready to take on the world and become a major player in the music business.
The chorus, sung by a female vocalist, ties the message of the song together by asserting that Canibus is in charge and has a hold over his audience. The song is a reflection of Canibus's journey and determination to succeed against all odds, while staying true to his unique style and values.
Line by Line Meaning
You're under my, you're under mind control
The singer declares that the listener is under her control and they cannot escape her influence.
You know you're lost, don't even try to fight
The listener is aware of their situation, but cannot resist the control of the singer.
You can't escape, I rule you day and night
The singer is in control of the listener at all times and they cannot escape her influence.
Been in this rap game since '96
The rapper Canibus has been making music since 1996.
Can-I-Bus, also known as Canibus
Canibus is also known by his nickname 'Can-I-Bus'.
And even though that might seem like a short time
Although his career may seem short, he has been making music for over two decades.
I was never known for spitting a short rhyme
Canibus is not known for his short, simplistic rhymes; he is known for his complex and intricate lyrics.
I'm known for my ill metaphors and lines
Canibus is praised for his clever wordplay and metaphors in his rhymes.
And I'm inspired by that little voice inside
Canibus is motivated by his internal voice that drives him to create more music and better himself.
That says, 'Keep a strong mind and don't compromise'
Canibus' internal voice encourages him to stay true to himself and not compromise his artistic vision in the music industry.
Nothing happens before it's time, don't get off of the grind
Canibus advises to remain persistent and not give up on achieving success because everything will happen in its own time.
See the game is cold, don't lose control
The music industry can be tough and unforgiving, so it's important to not lose your sense of self in the process.
All the glitters ain't gold, you could lose your soul
Fame and fortune may seem appealing, but Canibus warns that it can come at a cost to your mental well-being and values.
I've been through it before, guess you live and you learn
Canibus has experienced the industry's hardships firsthand and acknowledges that it's a learning process.
Everyone takes turns getting what they deserve
Success comes to those who work for it, and everyone will get what they ultimately deserve.
It's like a revolving door as far as Canibus is concerned
For Canibus, the music industry is like a revolving door since it can bring new opportunities and doors can close just as quickly.
Please believe it, I'ma get what I earned
Canibus is confident that he will achieve what he deserves through hard work and dedication.
As far as getting that dough, and everything else in my career goes
Canibus is focused on making money and achieving success in all aspects of his career.
I'm completely in control, come on
Canibus has taken charge of his own career and is in control of his own success.
Now don't get it twisted, Canibus ain't getting Jiggy with it
Canibus is not selling out or following popular trends in his music.
I'm just dumbing it down for a minute
Canibus is simplifying his lyrics for a brief moment.
Went from Jersey to A-T-L, but then I relocated
Canibus has moved from New Jersey to Atlanta, but then relocated again.
Out to Cali on some one-way shit
Canibus moved to California on a one-way flight and is planning to stay there.
Bought a cheap ticket and split
Canibus moved to California with a low-cost flight and left quickly.
I'm in coach sitting next to this chick with some real voluptuous lips
Canibus sat in the standard coach class on the plane next to an attractive woman.
She asked me if I can help her give her luggage a lift
The woman asked Canibus to help her carry her luggage off the plane.
After that, she wouldn't shut up for the rest of the trip
The woman continued to talk to Canibus for the remainder of the flight.
She said she thought I looked familiar, but she never caught on
The woman failed to realize that Canibus was a famous rapper and did not recognize him.
I started nodding off, she was talking so long
Canibus found the woman's conversation boring and began to doze off.
Put my headphones on, then I went to sleep
Canibus put on his headphones to tune out the woman and fell asleep on the plane.
Reclined the seat, thought about rhymes and beats
Canibus relaxed and thought about his music and the creative process.
I thought about how I spent so much time in the East
Canibus reflected on his past experiences living in the eastern part of the United States.
And how my mind was never in peace
Canibus was never fully content with his life or his music in the past.
In the streets, if you want to that yellow-brick road
Canibus advises that success in the music industry is possible, but requires perseverance and hard work.
Paved with gold, you just gotta take control, come on
Success is within reach if you take control of your own career and never give up.
I stepped off the plane, never want to sit in coach again
Canibus vowed to never sit in the standard coach class again after his previous uncomfortable experience.
I can't deal with the neck-pain
Canibus found it difficult to manage the pain in his neck while sitting in coach class.
Seen some guy holding up a sign with my name
Canibus was greeted at the airport by a man holding a sign with his name on it.
What's up my main-man, where's baggage claim'
The man holding the sign greeted Canibus and asked him where the luggage claim area was.
Took the elevator, I was physically drained
Canibus was tired and exhausted after his flight and found using the elevator physically taxing.
The chick from the plane said, 'bye' and started to wave
The woman Canibus sat next to on the plane said goodbye and waved as she left the airport.
Man, I'm just happy to be in L.A.
Canibus is thrilled to be in Los Angeles and is looking forward to his new opportunities there.
Got my release papers from Universal/M.C.A
Canibus received his release papers from his music label Universal/MCA, meaning he is no longer under contract with them.
Now it's time to get that real paper, shake off the haters
Canibus is now focused on making money and disregarding any negative opinions from others.
They can't break us, we're Gladiators
Canibus considers himself and his colleagues to be strong and resilient like gladiators.
World famous, my name is on the mind of all of the majors
Canibus' name is known by major music industry professionals worldwide.
Canibus is outrageous
Canibus is known for his confident and bold personality and style.
Fans sing along when I perform on stages
Canibus' fans enjoy his music and actively participate in his live performances.
Or when they hear my songs on they two-way pagers
Fans also enjoy listening to Canibus' music on their mobile devices, such as two-way pagers.
They can't front, 'cause I broke the mold
Canibus has broken the mold by creating unique and innovative music that defies genre boundaries.
And took a little time, but now I'm in control
Canibus worked hard to take control of his own career and now feels confident in his success.
(Female vocalizes the harmony until fade)
The female singer continues to harmonize with the chorus until the song fades out.
Contributed by Alex P. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
forgetfulfunctor1
33 3's - 0:00-2:12 (Jay-Z must've loved this song...it came between his 22 2's and 44 4's, so he's giving canibus the 3rd letter. I still can't count if it was actually 33 3's)
Canibus Man - 2:12-6:58
Atlanta - 6:58-12:31 (I....want an explanation for who talked Canibus into writing this song)
Gybaotic - 12:31-17:49 (^^^^)
In the Rain - 17:49-22:10 (maybe the same A&R behind the last two tracks talked canibus into letting choruses on his songs lmfao...thank god, this song sounded like canibus actually. The chorus...not as much)
Mind Control - 22:10-26:24 (^^^^ except this chorus worked well with him)
Last Laugh - 26:24-31:41 (MY FAVORITE TRACK. one of my top, all time)
Not 4 Play (w Kurupt) - 31:41-35:52
Stupid Producers 35:53-39:36 (AKA the Shock Therapy Skit 2.0)
Talk the Talk - 39:36-43:12
Nobody - 43:12-46:33
Devin Svennson
1. 33 3's 0:00
2. Canibus Man 2:12
3. Atlanta 6:58
4. Gybaotic 12:31
5. In the Rain 17:49
6. Mind Control 22:10
7. Last Laugh 26:24
8. Not 4 Play f/Kurupt 31:41
9. Stupid Producers 35:53
10. Talk the Talk 39:36
11. Nobody 43:12
James
"33 3's" and "Canibus Man" are dope.
"Atlanta" sounds like a Pimp C knockoff song (I'm glad he tried a different flow for once).
"Gybaotic" has a terrible hook, theme and guest appearance. Canibus sounds like some southern rapper doing a double time flow on here. Overall, it's not a good song and easily the worst song on the album. I like the Canibus tried a different flow on here, too.
"In the Rain" is the second best song on the album. It is great.
"Mind Control" is dope.
"Last Laugh" is the best song on the album. Great song as well.
"Not 4 Play" features Kurupt and is a cool track.
"Stupid Producers" is filler.
"Talk the Talk" is a good song.
"Nobody" is not a song. It's just Canibus spoken outro.
Atlanta, Gybaotic and Not 4 Play have Canibus rapping differently than how he normally does, which I like.
Canibus raps well on this release. If the weak tracks were removed, it would've been a fire 7 track EP. As is, it is a cool release. In the Rain, 33 3s, Mind Control, Canibus Man, Last Laugh and In the Rain will stay in rotation.
OG
Canibus is a lyrical beast 🎤 🐐
iBust Fatrap
lyrically untouchable CANIBUS!!!
C Butler
Excellent album I wish it was on Spotify!
Ken Emnie
love this album !
forgetfulfunctor1
33 3's - 0:00-2:12 (Jay-Z must've loved this song...it came between his 22 2's and 44 4's, so he's giving canibus the 3rd letter. I still can't count if it was actually 33 3's)
Canibus Man - 2:12-6:58
Atlanta - 6:58-12:31 (I....want an explanation for who talked Canibus into writing this song)
Gybaotic - 12:31-17:49 (^^^^)
In the Rain - 17:49-22:10 (maybe the same A&R behind the last two tracks talked canibus into letting choruses on his songs lmfao...thank god, this song sounded like canibus actually. The chorus...not as much)
Mind Control - 22:10-26:24 (^^^^ except this chorus worked well with him)
Last Laugh - 26:24-31:41 (MY FAVORITE TRACK. one of my top, all time)
Not 4 Play (w Kurupt) - 31:41-35:52
Stupid Producers 35:53-39:36 (AKA the Shock Therapy Skit 2.0)
Talk the Talk - 39:36-43:12
Nobody - 43:12-46:33
forgetfulfunctor1
look up the wikipedia article for this album. look up the reviews. one of them makes it very clear (while not stating it) that this album was put out by people who weren't canibus.
It's like Tech N9ne's album "Celcius" or Brotha Lynch Hung's "Virus" and all those Black Market records that they put out after he left.
1) artist leaves soon to be defunct underground label
2) label has a bunch of vocals they didn't use
3) they create a chow mein, abomination to mankind, frankenalbum
4) everybody wonders why the fuck the artist put this album out, not realizing that THEY DIDNT
Gonja Sensai
Never thought of it that way.
ARIF trae rap
@forgetfulfunctor1 Word! The industry hated/hates Canibus so much that they didn't look for information like this when reviewing the album.
Mike Sum
Waiting on some to do 55 5s lol. Yeah jayz had to have liked this..also canibus says at the end rewind it and count it 33 3s
Lord Martin
thank you for this