Can-I-Bust
Common Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

featuring Ynot

[Common]
I'm not tall, but can I bust?
Like the double dutch, going down the street
I rap to myself when there ain't no one to rap to
And to me, yo, my shit be sounding sweet
It's like doo rock, doo rock, oop
I chew with my group, chicken and we couped in a hoop
Deee! Somebody's breath is smelling poo
Geee! Tone, is that you? (I don't think so)
I'm one time, two times, three times a lady
Bay-beh, bay-beh, bay-bee
Ha! I make it happen, ladi de, ladi da
When I was a boy I said "Oh" but now I'm a man saying "Ah"
Cha cha cha, who knows where the mouth goes
Yeah nigga, I'm fly, so keep your fucking mouth closed
Ralph goes "Rasheed" and I be saying "Boo!"
Bitches welcome back Common with the "Oooh oooh ooh"
And this is how I wreck it, doo doo doo doo doo doo doo
This is how I wreck it, do doo doo do doo
Now one two check ir, I'm as Def as a Leopard
It could be, it should be, it is? Holy cow!
I'm grass hopping like the ?common Billy section?
Not the Godfather, but I lounge like a stepper
Grandma, breaks it, 8, we wait
(Ch ch chaa) I got scratch like a DJ
I used to want to be like, I used to want to be like
Mike, but the man in the mirror don't know if he's black or white
And that makes me mad
(Backwards scratching) Who's bad?

[Ynot]
Now can I bust in this era, I'm a plus like addition
And listen, I'm dishing out shit like a chef
The love is the Late Show, showing you the ladies
You late on the show? Oh we the greatest show? You right
To might right, raise, to my left, boom bap
In the back, Blazay Blah, so get the fuck out my face
Oh what a disgrace, you can't disgrace
Boys I'll erase you boys to mincemeat
Human means T, O's, N's, why's this is just a tease before my album
No bum is out, I'm out to parlay you Fritos
One chip off the block, so bust it down, bust the sound
Exciting as a big zap
I frighten those biting when Lord jabber tighten when tighten taken to loose
Ynot's no loser but I lost your real mind
I find you, finder's keeper's so you mind too
Your mind can't match mine when I do mine
Call mine, my mouth is a fucking gold mine
More chaws like monster jaws, I get ate like the balls
I got to rhyme, too, I climb you like a stepson
No weapon, but I got a rep, son, for taking fakes to the towel
Snakes in my file
Shit, I'll sit down all stand-up comic rappers
Who diss that who go on about fashion
Fasten your seatbelts til he melts to ice
T.O.N.Y.'s backwards, nevertheless
I attack nerds, fuck what you heard
Hey, gone when I finish, women and niggas say "Damn, Tone"
That's busted

Bust it out, chant chant
Common Sense you know is running things
Let's show you we know you run it down
You ain't seeing us though we running things
Yeah, you know they running things

[Ynot]
Usually I'm the second voice, this time I'm the first choice
In the rhyme, I'm no prancer, so what?
Momma mock me, here's your time to jock, G, don't jack me
Don't pack no axe like a savege
I ran track stars back to their crib, create craters
In there, I'm holding one for fun
One tht plays golf, can't raise play tennis
One plays croquet, and Blazay plays the cut
Still make the women say "Hey"
Yodle lay hey hee hoo, in my way dead
Yo I lay she hoo, in my bed
Ask Common, I did your momma, nah I took it easy
Of hard hail, on a scale from 1 to 10
I'm rich, I own Ebony and Essence
And Essence say I'm strong cause with the pen I've been a Bad Boy
A sad boy, I call your girl 13 cause she's good
Should I say more? I see more, I see more
Sea shore to sea shore, I sell my yaght and play Yatzee
Ynot's the posse, dressing tight, yo I'm friendly
Who's the master, the weak-minded say I rock too strong
The short-winded say I rhyme to long
So niggas told me, "Please let me go to the peasant"
No, let me stop, chow, baby

[Common]
Baby, baby, baby!
Kids call me coffee because I *jugga jugga jugga* drop!
And you don't stop, don't put on the red light
While I rock player, niggas I coach more than John Thompson
I'm in your town, George, I got it made like Florance
I'm getting bigger than the lips on Martain Lawrence
*Mmuah, mmuah* It's like, it's like this
A Sermon like Erick, did a B.A.P. just like Tists
Wham! I knocked you over, but can I get a witness?
I shoot the gift rapping, and wish you a Merry Christmas
With he quickness is how I rip this, can you dig it?
Well if not, then dig this, this is the way that I flow
The pimp of hip-hop, I make you say "Ho!"
Don't hear me knocking, like I said, like I said
And this is the story about a man named Jed
Got some lead for those hefiers, yo I rip it out
My weapon, double decker, I come from 187
And I do work undercover like a cop
Stop in the name of Com before I break your arm
Plus I'm down with the U-Ack and Bushman
Peace to the Beatnuts, peace to the Pharcyde
Yeah, you know what time it is
Yeah, that's how it is





(The silliness continues til the end)

Overall Meaning

The song "Can-I-Bust" is a collaboration between Common and Ynot, and it features a mix of humorous and introspective lyrics. The song begins with Common questioning whether he can bust like double dutch (jump rope), showcasing his ability to rap at any moment, and describing the sound of his flow. He also talks about the odd smells and sounds around him, before switching to a more serious tone in which he describes his struggles as a boy growing into manhood.


Ynot takes over for the second verse, displaying his own lyrical prowess and boasting about his success, including owning Ebony and Essence magazines. He also takes a jab at other rappers and their fashion sense, and mentions having relations with Common's mother in a playful manner.


The song then ends with Common returning for a final verse, where he shows off his lyrical prowess and shouts out various artists and producers he is working with or is a fan of. Overall, the song's lyrics are a mix of playful banter and social commentary, exploring topics like masculinity and success in the music industry.


Line by Line Meaning

I'm not tall, but can I bust?
Despite not having a commanding presence, am I still able to demonstrate my skill and talent?


Like the double dutch, going down the street
Similar to the rhythmic jump rope game, I flow effortlessly and smoothly in my rhymes.


I rap to myself when there ain't no one to rap to
In moments of solitude, I engage in self-expression through my rap.


And to me, yo, my shit be sounding sweet
Personally, I find my own rap to be exceptionally enjoyable and appealing.


It's like doo rock, doo rock, oop
My rap style can be likened to a catchy, melodic rhythm.


I chew with my group, chicken and we couped in a hoop
I hang out with my crew, eating and driving around in a small, stylish car.


Deee! Somebody's breath is smelling poo
I remark on someone having bad breath, possibly due to poor oral hygiene.


Geee! Tone, is that you?
I humorously question if a person named Tone is responsible for the unpleasant odor.


I'm one time, two times, three times a lady
I possess a level of refinement and class that can be compared to that of multiple sophisticated women.


Bay-beh, bay-beh, bay-bee
I affectionately address someone using various endearments.


Ha! I make it happen, ladi de, ladi da
With confidence and skill, I actively bring about positive outcomes in life, regardless of any obstacles.


When I was a boy I said "Oh" but now I'm a man saying "Ah"
As I have matured, my perspective has shifted from naivety and surprise to understanding and affirmation.


Cha cha cha, who knows where the mouth goes
In a playful manner, I question the unpredictable nature of speech and its impact.


Yeah nigga, I'm fly, so keep your fucking mouth closed
I confidently assert my coolness and advise others to refrain from making negative remarks.


Ralph goes "Rasheed" and I be saying "Boo!"
In response to a specific greeting, I playfully respond with an exclamation of surprise or amusement.


Bitches welcome back Common with the "Oooh oooh ooh"
Female admirers excitedly express their delight upon my return.


And this is how I wreck it, doo doo doo doo doo doo doo
I demonstrate my exceptional skills and abilities in a manner that leaves others in awe and amazement.


This is how I wreck it, do doo doo do doo
I confidently showcase my unique style of wrecking beats and captivating audiences.


Now one two check ir, I'm as Def as a Leopard
I assert myself with confidence, knowing that I possess the same level of skill and artistry as a legendary hip-hop group, Def Leopard.


It could be, it should be, it is? Holy cow!
Expressing astonishment and excitement as I confirm the realization of something significant and exceptional.


I'm grass hopping like the ?common Billy section?
I skillfully navigate and move through situations with grace and agility, similar to a section of grasshoppers.


Not the Godfather, but I lounge like a stepper
Although I am not the Godfather, I effortlessly relax and chill like a smooth and sophisticated individual.


Grandma, breaks it, 8, we wait
Referencing a dance move known as breaking, I playfully anticipate and enjoy the suspense before seeing my grandma perform.


(Ch ch chaa) I got scratch like a DJ
I possess exceptional DJ skills and have access to a wide array of music, symbolized by the commonly heard scratch sound.


I used to want to be like, I used to want to be like Mike
During my younger days, I aspired to be like Michael Jordan, a symbol of excellence and success.


But the man in the mirror don't know if he's black or white
Reflecting on personal identity and struggles with racial and cultural identity.


And that makes me mad
This confusion and uncertainty frustrate and anger me.


(Backwards scratching) Who's bad?
In a nod to Michael Jackson, I question who is truly exceptional and skilled.


Now can I bust in this era, I'm a plus like addition
I assert myself and ask for validation and recognition in the current hip-hop era, comparing myself to the positive impact of addition.


And listen, I'm dishing out shit like a chef
I confidently distribute my rap content and creativity comparable to a skilled chef serving a meal.


The love is the Late Show, showing you the ladies
I present an expression of romance and affection, similar to a late-night talk show showcasing female guests.


You late on the show? Oh we the greatest show? You right
If you are not yet familiar with the greatness of our show, then allow me to provide confirmation.


To might right, raise, to my left, boom bap
I use hand gestures and emote confidently to the right and left while delivering a classic, rhythmic sound.


In the back, Blazay Blah, so get the fuck out my face
In a dismissive manner, I assert the need for someone named Blazay Blah to leave my presence.


Oh what a disgrace, you can't disgrace
I express annoyance at someone's inability to effectively disgrace or insult me.


Boys I'll erase you boys to mincemeat
I proudly declare my ability to eliminate weak opponents and reduce them to mere mincemeat.


Human means T, O's, N's, why's this is just a tease before my album
I cleverly play with words and alphabets to convey that my current work is just a glimpse of what is to come in my upcoming album.


No bum is out, I'm out to parlay you Fritos
I assert that I am not a low-life or unremarkable individual, but rather, I aim to outperform and outshine those who underestimate me.


One chip off the block, so bust it down, bust the sound
I acknowledge and embrace my inherited talent and confidently deliver my unique sound and style.


Exciting as a big zap
I compare my electrifying presence and performance to a powerful and thrilling electric shock.


I frighten those biting when Lord jabber tighten when tighten taken to loose
I intimidate and scare off imitators and wannabes, showcasing my superior skills and mastery.


Ynot's no loser but I lost your real mind
I assure you that I am not a failure, but it seems that I have managed to confuse or bewilder you.


I find you, finder's keeper's so you mind too
I have located you, and according to the principle of 'finders keepers,' your mind now belongs to me.


Your mind can't match mine when I do mine
I suggest that your thoughts and intellectual abilities cannot rival mine when I am at my best.


Call mine, my mouth is a fucking gold mine
Referencing the value and richness of my words, I assert that my mouth is a treasured source of exceptional content.


More chaws like monster jaws, I get ate like the balls
I consume and overcome challenges and obstacles with ease, similar to how a monster devours its prey.


I got to rhyme, too, I climb you like a stepson
In addition to my impressive rap skills, I confidently ascend and surpass others in various aspects, like a stepfather guiding a stepson.


No weapon, but I got a rep, son, for taking fakes to the towel
I am not armed with physical weapons, but I am known for exposing and defeating fake individuals.


Snakes in my file
I encounter deceitful and treacherous individuals in my circle or personal records.


Shit, I'll sit down all stand-up comic rappers
I have the ability and talent to outshine and outperform all other rap artists, even those known for their comedic style.


Who diss that who go on about fashion
I question individuals who criticize or gossip about my style and fashion choices.


Fasten your seatbelts til he melts to ice
I advise others to prepare themselves for an intense and captivating experience until they are left stunned and speechless.


T.O.N.Y.'s backwards, nevertheless
Playing with words, I rearrange the letters in T.O.N.Y. as a clever reference, but I still proceed with confidence and determination.


I attack nerds, fuck what you heard
I confront and challenge those who underestimate or belittle nerdy individuals, disregarding any negative rumors or opinions.


Hey, gone when I finish, women and niggas say "Damn, Tone"
Upon witnessing my remarkable performance, both women and men are left impressed and in awe, remarking with admiration and surprise.


That's busted
After highlighting my exceptional skills and leaving a lasting impression, I confidently assert that my talent is undeniable.


Bust it out, chant chant
With enthusiasm and energy, I urge others to express themselves and show their own skills or talents.


Common Sense you know is running things
I assert my authority and influence in the hip-hop world, representing the persona of Common Sense.


Let's show you we know you run it down
I confidently declare that I am aware of and familiar with the hip-hop industry, and I aim to impress you with my knowledge.


You ain't seeing us though we running things
Although some may not be aware of our dominance and influence, we continue to exert control and make a significant impact.


Usually I'm the second voice, this time I'm the first choice
I typically contribute as a secondary presence, but this time I am recognized and chosen as the primary voice.


In the rhyme, I'm no prancer, so what?
While delivering my rhymes, I do not engage in showy or unnecessary movements, but rather focus on the substance and content of my words.


Momma mock me, here's your time to jock, G, don't jack me
I sarcastically challenge individuals who previously underestimated or mocked me, suggesting that they should now recognize and appreciate my talent.


Don't pack no axe like a savage
I do not possess or rely on weapons like a barbarian or savage individual.


I ran track stars back to their crib, create craters
I am so fast and skillful that I easily defeat and outperform even the most talented athletes, leaving a lasting impact and impression.


In there, I'm holding one for fun
Once I have achieved victory or success, I continue to maintain my dominant position for my personal enjoyment.


One tht plays golf, can't raise play tennis
I highlight the limitations and ineptness of someone who excels in one sport but struggles in another.


One plays croquet, and Blazay plays the cut
I mention individuals who engage in less popular or unconventional sports or activities, emphasizing the uniqueness and diversity among my associates.


Still make the women say "Hey"
Regardless of the circumstances or setting, I consistently attract and captivate women, evoking their admiration and attention.


Yodle lay hey hee hoo, in my way dead
With a playful and melodic sound, I express my ability to overcome any obstacles or individuals who obstruct my path.


Yo I lay she hoo, in my bed
In a flirtatious manner, I suggest that I have the ability to attract and engage in intimate encounters with women.


Ask Common, I did your momma, nah I took it easy
Humorously addressing someone named Common, I playfully imply that I had a romantic encounter with their mother, but I assure them that it was a lighthearted remark.


Of hard hail, on a scale from 1 to 10, I'm rich
In terms of toughness and resilience, I compare myself to hail and confidently assert that I am an excellent 10 on a scale of toughness.


I own Ebony and Essence
Highlighting my success and influence, I claim ownership of popular magazines Ebony and Essence, symbolizing my dominance in the industry.


And Essence say I'm strong cause with the pen I've been a Bad Boy
Recognizing my powerful and impactful lyrics, Essence magazine acknowledges my strength and creativity, drawing a comparison to the influential record label Bad Boy Entertainment.


A sad boy, I call your girl 13 cause she's good
Despite my own occasional melancholy, I humorously refer to someone's girlfriend as '13' to convey that she is attractive and desirable.


Should I say more? I see more, I see more
I rhetorically question if it is necessary to further elaborate, as I already perceive and understand more than others.


Sea shore to sea shore, I sell my yaght and play Yatzee
To emphasize the vastness and reach of my influence, I metaphorically claim ownership of a yacht and casually mention playing the popular board game Yatzee.


Ynot's the posse, dressing tight, yo I'm friendly
Referring to my group or crew, I assert my leadership and unity while maintaining a fashionable and approachable demeanor.


Who's the master, the weak-minded say I rock too strong
Those lacking mental strength or understanding might claim that my powerful presence and talent are overpowering and intimidating.


The short-winded say I rhyme to long
Individuals lacking stamina or enduring perseverance may criticize the length or duration of my rhymes.


So niggas told me, "Please let me go to the peasant"
I recall instances where individuals have requested to be excused and cease engaging in a battle with me, acknowledging my superiority.


No, let me stop, chow, baby
Despite the temptation to continue asserting my dominance, I choose to conclude and bid farewell with a casual and nonchalant attitude.


Baby, baby, baby!
Expressing affection or endearment, I repeatedly address someone as 'baby.'


Kids call me coffee because I *jugga jugga jugga* drop!
I draw an amusing comparison between children referring to me as 'coffee' and the sound of my rap delivery resembling the dropping of a record needle.


And you don't stop, don't put on the red light
Encouraging continued energy and momentum, I urge against pausing or slowing down, similar to the concept of not stopping at a red traffic light.


While I rock player, niggas I coach more than John Thompson
In my influential and esteemed position, I guide and mentor others with expertise and authority, surpassing the coaching prowess of basketball coach John Thompson.


I'm in your town, George, I got it made like Florance
Addressing someone named George, I assert my presence in their town and assert that my position is secure and comfortable, comparable to the affluent lifestyle of Florance, a luxurious city.


I'm getting bigger than the lips on Martain Lawrence
I metaphorically describe my increasing success and fame by comparing it to the prominent and exaggerated lips of comedian Martin Lawrence.


*Mmuah, mmuah* It's like, it's like this
With a playful kiss sound effect, I indicate that what I am about to say is significant and noteworthy.


A Sermon like Erick, did a B.A.P. just like Tists
Drawing inspiration from rapper Erick Sermon, I deliver a powerful and impactful sermon, similar to how B.A.P. (Beatles and Public Enemy) delivered their groundbreaking music.


Wham! I knocked you over, but can I get a witness?
Using the sound effect 'wham' to indicate impact, I assert that I have succeeded in impressing and overwhelming others, and I request confirmation or affirmation of my achievement.


I shoot the gift rapping, and wish you a Merry Christmas
I skillfully deliver my rap talent or 'gift,' simultaneously expressing well wishes for the Christmas season.


With he quickness is how I rip this, can you dig it?
I confidently and swiftly deliver my rap, showcasing my exceptional skills and asking if the listener understands and appreciates my artistry.


Well if not, then dig this, this is the way that I flow
If the listener is not fully comprehending or embracing my style, I proceed to make it clear that this is how I express myself and deliver my rap.


The pimp of hip-hop, I make you say "Ho!"
Acknowledging my mastery and prominence in the hip-hop genre, I evoke a response of admiration and excitement with my captivating performance.


Don't hear me knocking, like I said, like I said
I assert that others should not be ignorant or dismissive of my presence and talent, repeating myself to emphasize the point.


And this is the story about a man named Jed
Drawing a playful reference to the TV show 'The Beverly Hillbillies,' I introduce the concept of sharing a personal narrative or tale about an individual named Jed.


Got some lead for those hefiers, yo I rip it out
I possess sharp and impactful lyrics that I target specifically towards unworthy or disrespectful individuals, asserting my ability to effectively defeat them.


My weapon, double decker, I come from 187
Drawing imagery from a double-decker bus, I metaphorically compare my powerful weapon, in this case, my rap skills, to a bus from the area code 187, symbolizing toughness and danger.


And I do work undercover like a cop
I skillfully and discreetly operate behind the scenes, similar to an undercover police officer, making impactful moves without drawing unnecessary attention.


Stop in the name of Com before I break your arm
In a playful and exaggerated manner, I assert my authority and demand compliance, warning of potential consequences if someone challenges me.


Plus I'm down with the U-Ack and Bushman
I proudly associate myself with notable hip-hop artists U-Ack and Bushman, highlighting my alliance and affiliation with talented individuals.


Peace to the Beatnuts, peace to the Pharcyde
I extend greetings and respect to the groups and artists Beatnuts and Pharcyde, acknowledging their talent and contributions to the hip-hop community.


Yeah, you know what time it is
Asserting a sense of familiarity and anticipation, I remind listeners that they are well aware of the momentous and exciting occasion.


Yeah, that's how it is
Affirming and confirming the preceding statement, I assure listeners that they accurately understand the situation and its significance.


(The silliness continues til the end)
The lighthearted and playful nature of the lyrics persist throughout the rest of the song until its conclusion.




Contributed by Julia S. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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Comments from YouTube:

704RHYME704

This is literally my favorite song from the old "Common Sense" era. What the Hell happened to YNOT?

Derrick Alexander

Lol, just posted on Instagram this was one of my favorite one two's, love this song

Matthew Christopher

YNOT is Twilite Tone...

Juan francisco Lora martinez

This is flava, when hip hop was dope, hip hop will never reach that level again.

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