Cormega was raised in Long Island City, Queens, forming childhood friendships with future rappers such as Nas, AZ, Nature, and Capone-N-Noreaga.
1980s
He was featured on Hot Day's "Going Straight Up" from his album "It's My Turn". He was also featured on Blaq Poet & DJ Hot Day's track "Set It Off" from their album "Without Warning" in 1991.
1990s
Cormega was sentenced to 5–15 years in prison for armed robbery in 1991. Despite his incarceration, Cormega gained some attention following a shout-out from Nas on his song "One Love", from the critically acclaimed Illmatic album.
Cormega was released from prison on appeal after serving almost 4 years in New York's Mid-State Correctional Facility. Following his release in 1995, Cormega became determined to pursue rapping. Nas included him on a song entitled "Affirmative Action" for his second album It Was Written. The song also featured AZ and Foxy Brown, and became The Firm's first appearance. Based on his performance, he was signed to Def Jam and recorded an album called The Testament. Based on the buzz from "Affirmative Action," Nas, his manager Steve Stoute and producers Dr. Dre and Trackmasters joined to produce The Firm. Cormega was replaced with another artist, Nature, because either he would not sign a contract with Stoute or Stoute felt Nature was a better rapper. This led to an alleged altercation between Cormega and Nature. Cormega's dispute with Stoute also ended his friendship with Nas. Following the end of his membership in The Firm, Alex Trojano contributed in producing his album The Testament. Meanwhile, following a falling-out over creative differences with his manager Chris Lighty and Def-Jam imprint Violator Records, his debut album The Testament was indefinitely shelved. During the recording for The Testament Cormega responded to Nas' "One Love" in the form of a letter also entitled "One Love".
2000s
In 2000, he was released from his contract and he started his own record company, Legal Hustle Records. Cormega vented his disappointment with Nas and The Firm in a mixtape song titled "Never Personal".This song was never directly pointed to Nas, but the media made it look like that. In 2001, he released his new debut album, The Realness, which was acclaimed by critics. Many of the songs share a theme of betrayal. Nas responded to Cormega on his song "Destroy and Rebuild" from his album Stillmatic. Cormega retaliated with more mixtape tracks, "A Slick Response" and "Realmatic". Nas revisited the Cormega beef in his song "The Cross" on the album God's Son. In reference to Cormega, Nas rapped "What I've discovered is my brother's tryin to be/The next me, yeah I support him but he's blinded I see/ Jealousy he love me to death and I'm buggin I love him for life/ We both still mournin on our mother's life" (referencing the fact that Cormega's mother was murdered when he was four).
Cormega's follow-up album, The True Meaning won the Source Magazine's prestigious Underground Album of the Year Award. In 2004, he followed up with Legal Hustle (a compilation album showcasing his label's artists) and other talented hip-hop lyricists such as Ghostface Killah, Large Professor, AZ, Kurupt, Jayo Felony, and several others. This album is considered by some as more of a project than an actual solo album; nonetheless it was well received. In 2005, he was able to release The Testament on his own label, which saw good reviews and sales and featured the original banned version of "Dead Man Walking" as a hidden track.
In early September 2005, Cormega posted a statement on his website that he and Nas had spoken and ended their feud. Cormega explained that their conversation had come about due to the death of Cormega's grandmother. Both rappers have stated the possibility of a collaboration. On December 22, 2006 at the Nokia Theatre Times Square, Cormega appeared on stage at a Nas concert and went on to perform with Nas (and Foxy Brown as well), further evidence that their feud is over.
The feud was settled in Cormega's home in early December 2005, when Cormega and Nas realized that it was destructive for each of them. It is not known who was responsible for their meeting but both artists are now working alone. In the mid-2000s Cormega helped produce a few albums and was featured on several songs with The Jacka and the Mob Figaz.
An album collaboration with Lakey The Kid entitled My Brother's Keeper was released independently on August 22, 2006. On November 20, 2007, Cormega finally released his DVD in-the-making Who am I?. The DVD took over four years of filming of Cormega in all aspects of his life and what others thought of Cormega, unedited. The DVD was released as a soundtrack plus DVD. Cormega intended to release an album which was to be entitled Urban Legend before T.I.'s album of the same name was released (Cormega mentions this on the Who Am I DVD, dated circa 2003); the new title is Born and Raised. The album was released October 20, 2009. The first single is called "Journey."
2010s
Cormega has stated his desire to work with a variety of artists including Scarface, Lauryn Hill, Slick Rick, as well as past collaborators M.O.P., Mobb Deep, and tha Dogg Pound.
Cormega's Album "Raw Forever" was released on 2011.
His latest work is the Album Mega Philosophy. It was produced by Large Professor and released on July 22, 2014.
Coco Butter
Cormega Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Your ebony eyes is heavenly
You like a pearl handle, smooth yet deadly
Smile yo, your style so awesome, like Stoudemire
Crossin' over, lost 'em, you a cobra, I gotta use caution
Perfection, slide like the new GS's
A black butterfly floatin' in my direction
Check it, you and me is like graffiti on walls
And I'll be there, like d's if they bake a ki there
Yo, ma, I analyze every minute we share
You nice, like uptown Nike's, with powder blue stripes
How would you like, to go out and chill all night
No question, I represent the Q.B.C
But no doubt ma, but what's up with you and me
Yo, your conversation indicated educated
Situations elevated, when I smelled your fragrance
[Chorus x2: sample (Cormega)]
Sometimes it seems that way to live
(Type mysterious, like the mind behind pyramids)
I need you to love, don't you see
(Coco butter complexion, your eyes dead serious)
[Cormega]
I don't usually put two women, I just did 'em
Your style, I jiggin', yo ma, how we livin'
What you like, drug dealer type, thugs, nice guys
I'm a real nigga, you seem to be likewise
You said I got nice eyes, nah, you incredible
Yo, what the deal, my name is Mega, boo
Aiyo, I came checkin' you cuz bangin' like soul food
I'm stressed in my Lex', you changed my whole mood
I was vexed, semi-depressed, thinkin' on things not worth
Speakin' on, laid back with Air Mac sneakers on
You was movin' so smoothly, your style confusin' me
Mentally abuse me, excuse me, can we connect?
Go to my rest, select a movie to check
I don't got a jacuzzi, but I bet you leave wet
You a goddess, I'm tryin' my hardest
Yo the rims on my ride be retarded, when they gleamin' in your projects
[Chorus x2]
[Cormega]
Yo, you remind me of coco butter, your conversation
Don't even come close to others
You got knowledge indeed, word, you got to college in Queens
Your intellect is like bail in Kew Gardens Supreme
Can you please be a part of my team?
I shoot my cream like gun powder, and 9 months you proud of my seed
You acknowledge my dream to live on, I conquered your seat
Yo, boo, you know the drilly on how real it could be
[Chorus x2]
In "Coco Butter," Cormega expresses his admiration for a woman with "ebony eyes" and a "coco butter complexion." He goes on to praise her style, intelligence, and smoothness. He likens her to a snake in her ability to capture his attention and her cautionary nature. He compares their chemistry to graffiti on walls, both standing out in their own unique way. He expresses a desire to spend time with her, getting to know her better.
Throughout the song, Cormega uses metaphors and similes to describe the woman he is enamored with. He compares her to a black butterfly, uptown Nike's with powder blue stripes, and coco butter. He also references drug dealers, thugs, and nice guys, but ultimately proclaims himself a "real nigga" like her. The chorus is a sample with the lyrics "sometimes it seems that way to live" and "I need you to love, don't you see" repeated, highlighting the importance of feeling supported and loved in life.
Overall, "Coco Butter" is a romantic and heartfelt tribute to a woman who captures Cormega's attention and admiration. He recognizes her beauty, intelligence, and intriguing personality, and expresses a desire to move forward with her.
Line by Line Meaning
Your ebony eyes is heavenly
Your dark eyes are absolutely gorgeous and mesmerizing.
You like a pearl handle, smooth yet deadly
You're as exquisite and dangerous as a pearl handled gun - beautifully unique yet powerful.
Smile yo, your style so awesome, like Stoudemire, Crossin' over, lost 'em, you a cobra, I gotta use caution
Your dazzling smile and unstoppable style remind me of a skilled basketball player, moving past defenders like a cobra - I have to be careful not to get caught up.
Perfection, slide like the new GS's
You move with perfection and grace, like the newest and smoothest car model from GS.
A black butterfly floatin' in my direction
You're like a beautiful and mysterious black butterfly, showing up in my life unexpectedly but adding an indescribable beauty.
Check it, you and me is like graffiti on walls
Together, we're like bright and bold graffiti art on a dull wall, standing out and making our mark.
You wanna see me, all you had to do was call
If you want to spend time with me, all you have to do is reach out and I'll be there for you.
And I'll be there, like d's if they bake a ki there
I'll be there for you like a drug dealer's stash of drugs is always by his side when he's cooking them.
Yo, ma, I analyze every minute we share
I pay close attention to every moment we spend together, as each one is precious to me.
You nice, like uptown Nike's, with powder blue stripes
You're as cool and stylish as a pair of fresh uptown Nike sneakers with powder blue stripes.
How would you like, to go out and chill all night
Would you be interested in spending a relaxed and fun night out with me?
No question, I represent the Q.B.C
There's no doubt that I represent my hometown, Queensbridge.
But no doubt ma, but what's up with you and me
I'm proud of where I come from, but I'm more interested in exploring what could happen between us.
Yo, your conversation indicated educated
From our conversation, it's clear that you're highly educated and intelligent.
Situations elevated, when I smelled your fragrance
The moment I smelled your perfume, the situation between us became more intense and exciting.
Sometimes it seems that way to live (Type mysterious, like the mind behind pyramids) I need you to love, don't you see (Coco butter complexion, your eyes dead serious)
Sometimes life can feel mysterious and confusing, like the ancient minds behind the construction of pyramids. But despite this, I need your love and support, as your beautiful cocoa butter complexion and serious eyes have captured my heart.
I don't usually put two women, I just did 'em
I'm not one to see multiple women at once, but I have recently broken my own rule.
Your style, I jiggin', yo ma, how we livin'
I really love your unique style and vibe, how are you doing?
What you like, drug dealer type, thugs, nice guys
What type of men are you interested in? Drug dealers, tough guys or nice guys?
I'm a real nigga, you seem to be likewise
I prides myself on being real and genuine, and you seem to embody those same qualities.
You said I got nice eyes, nah, you incredible
You complimented my eyes, but I have to say that you're the one who is truly incredible.
Aiyo, I came checkin' you cuz bangin' like soul food
I came to see you because you're incredibly enticing, like a delicious soul food meal.
I'm stressed in my Lex', you changed my whole mood
I was feeling stressed and anxious in my luxury car, but just being around you completely changed my outlook and mood.
You was movin' so smoothly, your style confusin' me
You move so smoothly and elegantly, it's almost confusing to watch.
Mentally abuse me, excuse me, can we connect?
You're mentally stimulating and challenge me in a good way. Can we connect on a deeper level?
Go to my rest, select a movie to check
Let's go to my place and pick out a movie to watch.
I don't got a jacuzzi, but I bet you leave wet
I may not have a jacuzzi, but I'm sure you'll leave my place feeling happy and satisfied.
You a goddess, I'm tryin' my hardest
You're like a goddess to me, and I will do my best to impress and take care of you.
Yo the rims on my ride be retarded, when they gleamin' in your projects
The rims on my car are absolutely stunning, especially when I'm cruising through your neighborhood.
Your intellect is like bail in Kew Gardens Supreme
Your intelligence is as valuable and powerful as a bail bond in the supreme court of Kew Gardens.
Can you please be a part of my team?
Will you consider joining me and being a part of my life?
I shoot my cream like gunpowder, and 9 months you proud of my seed
When I release my semen during sex, it's as powerful as gunpowder. And if you get pregnant and have my child, I'll be proud and happy.
You acknowledge my dream to live on, I conquered your seat
You support and encourage my dreams and goals, and in turn, I'm able to bring you pleasure and satisfaction.
Yo, boo, you know the drilly on how real it could be
You understand the reality of how tough and difficult life can be, and I appreciate your ability to handle it with grace and strength.
Contributed by Aaliyah A. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@matthewpowell9483
This track is classic
@bluntrapent1856
How U DoinG? If U Support GReat HiPHoP Music PleaSe ChecK Out #BluntRapENT's @Step_FTP SonG "ChooSe U" FeatuRinG @Sunni.Mone Off Of HiS "Game Seven" alBum https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EL0_VgIodzA&list=PLHCIdWJy__ixYDmQvdmeFOdiUBDOXn2D-&index=10
@ProLifik1
AZ got one of the best flows of all time
@bluntrapent1856
How U DoinG? If U Support GReat HiPHoP Music PleaSe ChecK Out #BluntRapENT's @Step_FTP SonG "ChooSe U" FeatuRinG @Sunni.Mone Off Of HiS "Game Seven" alBum https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EL0_VgIodzA&list=PLHCIdWJy__ixYDmQvdmeFOdiUBDOXn2D-&index=10
@DOMGENO
just to let everyone know this was made in 1998 off his old def jam deal. i love this song shot out to prestige.. mega nice
@bluntrapent1856
How U DoinG? If U Support GReat HiPHoP Music PleaSe ChecK Out #BluntRapENT's @Step_FTP SonG "ChooSe U" FeatuRinG @Sunni.Mone Off Of HiS "Game Seven" alBum https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EL0_VgIodzA&list=PLHCIdWJy__ixYDmQvdmeFOdiUBDOXn2D-&index=10
@maadakeili
Fire . Love
@user-dd5nn1iz5h
QB Reppin! Str8 0G MEGA4EVA
@BlacKnowledge
I thought I would never hear this full song. I thought it was a snippet or something. Respect for the upload. Yeeeeeeeeeeeeeea.
@bluntrapent1856
How U DoinG? If U Support GReat HiPHoP Music PleaSe ChecK Out #BluntRapENT's @Step_FTP SonG "ChooSe U" FeatuRinG @Sunni.Mone Off Of HiS "Game Seven" alBum https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EL0_VgIodzA&list=PLHCIdWJy__ixYDmQvdmeFOdiUBDOXn2D-&index=10