History
When he was growing up, he found that listening to his parents was unbearable. He got a job as a newspaper boy at age 7 to support his family. Once he grew up, he developed a reputation and following as a school and block party DJ extraordinaire, Jazzy Jeff was the feature of the duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince. As a duo, they had several gold and platinum-selling albums and singles in the late 1980s and early 1990s, earning them the first rap Grammy ever presented in 1989 for Parents Just Don't Understand. When Smith branched out into television with the sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Jazzy Jeff played a recurring character named "Jazz", Smith's best friend on the show. The two characters always greeted each other with their signature handshake (swinging mid-five, point-back/snap with both characters saying "Pssh!").
Jazz' trademarks include being physically ejected from the house by Uncle Phil (James Avery), screaming as he went flying out the front door. This was referenced in the song "N.Y, N.Y." by Lloyd Banks from his second album Rotten Apple, with the lyric "I throw a bitch out the crib like Jazzy Jeff". [1]
DJ Jazzy Jeff is not to be confused with Jeffrey Myree from the earlier hip hop group Funky Four Plus One, which in fact filed and won a lawsuit over the name Jazzy Jeff against Jeff Townes and Jive records when they signed DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince. After DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince broke up, Townes went on to become a prominent R&B, soul, and neo soul record producer, establishing the A Touch of Jazz production company in his native Philadelphia. Among the artists that Jazzy Jeff has helped develop are Jill Scott and Musiq. Even though he separated from Will Smith as music partners, they are still best friends and still occasionally work together. Some songs by Will Smith were produced by Jeff Townes (Ex. Here He Comes), and he has performed on some songs by Will Smith such as "So Fresh" and "Potnas". In addition, he appears in several of Smith's music videos such as "Will2K", "Freakin' It", and "Party Starter". On some occasions, he makes appearances with Smith on live concerts, producing DJ scratches.
He, along with DJ Cash Money, is credited with making the transform scratch famous.
On July 2, 2005, DJ Jazzy Jeff performed with Will Smith at the Live 8 concert in Philadelphia. In the past, Will has performed on concerts with DJ Jazzy Jeff for the scratches. Moreover, Will acknowledges him in his music like "Comin' To The Stage" from the album Lost & Found or "Potnas" in his album Willennium.
His 2007 release TROTM (The Return of the Magnificent) is a classic work which returns to the roots of hip-hop with a neo-soul mixture included. This album featured numerous collaborations with old school and new school artists including CL Smooth, Big Daddy Kane, Pos from De La Soul, Method Man, Peedi Crakk (a remake of Brand New Funk), Rhymefest, and Raheem DeVaughn.
In 2007, he appeared with Rhymefest in the video DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Fest directed by Konee Rok, in which he makes music in his home recording studio with Rhymefest and they reveal that they are working on an album together called "I'm the DJ, I'm the Rapper".
Discography
Solo work as DJ Jazzy Jeff
* Unreleased album from Sony Records (1998)
* One cut in Battle of DJs
* The Magnificent (2002)
* Soulheaven Presents Jazzy Jeff in the House (2004)
* The Soul Mixtape Groovin' Records USA (2005)
* Hip-Hop Forever II Rapster Records (2004)
* Hip-Hop Forever III BBE Records (2006)
* The Return of The Magnificent EP (2007)
* The Return of the Magnificent (2007)
* The Return of Hip Hop EP (2007)
As DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince
* Rock the House (1987) #83 US (Gold)
* He's the DJ, I'm the Rapper (1988) #4 US (3x Platinum)
* And in This Corner… (1989) #39 US (Gold)
* Homebase (1991) #12 US (Platinum)
* Code Red (1993) #64 US (Gold)
* Greatest Hits (1998) #144 US, #20 UK
* Before The Willennium (1999)
* The Very Best of D.J. Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince (2006)
Miscellaneous
* 1991 - Deep, Deep, Trouble with Bart Simpson and the remixes; from The Simpsons Sing the Blues
* 1997 - Jazzy Jeff's Theme; from the album Nuyorican Soul
* 1998 - "When To Stand Up" featuring Eminem
* 1998 - I Don't Know by Slum Village (scratches); from the album Fantastic, Vol. 2
* 1999 - The Next Movement by The Roots (scratches); from the album Things Fall Apart
* 2004 - Mirrorball (DJ Jazzy Jeff Full Sole Remix) by Everything But The Girl; from Adapt or Die: 10 Years of Remixes
* 2005 - Papa Was A Rollin' Stone (DJ Jazzy Jeff & Pete Kuzma Solefull Mix) by the Temptations; from Motown Remixed.
* 2005 - Lost & Found by Will Smith; produced intro song Here He Comes and several DJ scratches on several tracks
* 2005 - The Minstrel Show by Little Brother; Scratches on the song Watch Me.
* 2006 - Feel It (Jazzy Jeff Soulful Remix) by the Black Eyed Peas; from Renegotiations: The Remixes
* 2006 - Night in Tunisia (DJ Jazzy Jeff Remix) by Duke Jordan
* 2007 - Ear Drum by Talib Kweli; Scratches on song NY Weather Report.
* 2008 - Get Busy by The Roots (scratches); from the album Rising Down.
The Garden
DJ Jazzy Jeff Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Kid your facin it
Put your game face on and start embracin it
I'm from the streets that first
Started all that hatin shit
And naz used to spell ghetto
With the "h" in it
You see the innocent children
Get that menacin feelin
But when it's revealed
A 16's just an enterprise you pretend to ride
It seems it's been applied
It's a snoop genocide
Nz ain't showin that they skills is there
Nz ain't tryna build careers
When them guns start to bust
And you ain't real prepared
Now your rhymes just a souvenir
From a killed career
Understand I do a lot of renovating myself
Kane ain't never been known for
Limit's breaking my "self"
Club shit and thug shit, innovatin myself
But you'll never catch the
God incriminating my "self" f'real
In The Garden of Hip Hop always stay true
And always remember just what a snake do
Watch those around you cuz
They'll be fake too
And never let the game make you
Most of all
In The Garden of Hip Hop stay in circle
There's a lot to see beneath
Where the dirt is
Dig a little deeper to scratch the surface
Maybe then you'll understand your purpose
Now reflecting on the game kid i have to say
Much love to the one Jam Master Jay
A loss that hit the world of
Hip hop like John Lennon
Chapter out of life that
Prevailed the wrong inning
Still from the Notorious, hearts are shooken
The streets started lookin like we
Missing part of Brooklyn
A disappointing flavor that we taste before
But a spots been secured for the late Shakur
The pain was severe when we lost Aaliyah
We try to get by
Then turn around and lost Left Eye
We even see how fatal diseases be
Snatchin playaz like Eazy-E, easily
Respect to Freaky Tah, Big L and Big Pun
The big one
Who left the Terror Squad forever scarred
Your lifestyle and your musical gift
In the hearts of many
You will truly be missed f'real
I never claimed to be the
Kid slingin rocks for Ex
Never claimed to be the kid
That be poppin the teks
But if you look it's like my
Name got stock in the jets
That ain't my style though
I simply not wish to flex
But if you want we can sit
And talk dollars and checks
And good investments
And what follows it next
You sittin there lookin brolic and vexed
Tryna screwface dudes
I'm tryna facescrew the opposite sex
Take a glass of the Remy, start with the Ex
I never had patron but shit I'll
Take a shot of it next
Life is beautiful Jeff, for real man
Trying to tell you ohhh Jazzy Jeff
In the first verse of "The Garden," DJ Jazzy Jeff reflects on the gritty reality of street life and the negative influences that can impact young individuals. He acknowledges the presence of madness and urges the listener to face it head-on with determination and resilience. Jazzy Jeff references the origins of hate in the streets, noting how the word "ghetto" used to be spelled with an "h." He observes the struggle of innocent children living in tenement buildings who face a sense of danger and insecurity. He criticizes the pretentiousness of those who claim to be street-savvy but are actually caught up in a facade, emphasizing the consequences of engaging in violent lifestyles. Jazzy Jeff expresses his own commitment to personal growth and improvement, distinguishing himself by continually evolving and innovating his music, without compromising his integrity.
The chorus of the song, "In The Garden of Hip Hop," carries a profound message about staying true to oneself and being aware of the deceitful nature of those around us. Jazzy Jeff advises remaining vigilant against those who may betray or deceive us, reminding us that even in the midst of success, it is essential not to lose sight of our purpose. The metaphor of the garden represents the hip-hop community, urging individuals to remain rooted in their values and avoid being swayed by the superficial aspects of the industry.
The second verse pays homage to influential figures in the hip-hop community who have passed away. Jazzy Jeff remembers the impact of the deaths of Jam Master Jay, the legendary Run-DMC DJ, as well as other icons like The Notorious B.I.G., Aaliyah, Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, Eazy-E, Freaky Tah, Big L, and Big Pun. He mourns their loss and acknowledges the void that their absence has left in the rap world. These tragic losses serve as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the legacy left behind by these artists.
The final verse shifts the focus to Jazzy Jeff's personal perspective and his rejection of the stereotype of a flashy and materialistic rapper. He clarifies that he is not involved in illicit activities or seeking unnecessary attention. Jazzy Jeff alludes to his financial success and willingness to engage in discussions about money and investments, suggesting a more prosperous and business-oriented mindset. He contrasts this with the aggressive behavior of others, expressing his desire to connect with women on a deeper emotional level rather than engaging in superficial encounters. The verse concludes with a lighthearted mention of enjoying a drink, suggesting a moment of relaxation and joy in the midst of the challenges of life.
Overall, "The Garden" by DJ Jazzy Jeff serves as a thought-provoking reflection on the realities of street life, the importance of authenticity in the hip-hop industry, and the impact of loss on the rap community. The song encourages listeners to remain true to themselves, resist superficial influences, stay vigilant against deception, and appreciate the beauty and impermanence of life.
Line by Line Meaning
You ain't lookin in the mouth of madness
You're not facing the chaos directly
Kid your facin it
Hey, you're confronting it
Put your game face on and start embracin it
Get ready and fully accept it
I'm from the streets that first
Started all that hatin shit
I come from the origin of the hostility
And naz used to spell ghetto
With the 'h' in it
Back then, 'ghetto' was spelt differently
You see the innocent children
From tenament buildings
Get that menacin feelin
But when it's revealed
You witness the fearful children from low-income housing experiencing danger, but when it becomes known
A 16's just an enterprise you pretend to ride
A 16-bar verse is merely a venture you pretend to engage in
It seems it's been applied
It's a snoop genocide
It appears to be enforced, it's like a systematic destruction influenced by Snoop Dogg
Nz ain't showin that they skills is there
Artists aren't demonstrating their true abilities
Nz ain't tryna build careers
Artists aren't striving to construct lasting careers
When them guns start to bust
And you ain't real prepared
Now your rhymes just a souvenir
From a killed career
When violence erupts and you're unprepared, your lyrics become a memento from a ruined career
Understand I do a lot of renovating myself
Comprehend that I'm constantly improving myself
Kane ain't never been known for
Limit's breaking my 'self'
I, Kane, have never been recognized for exceeding my limitations
Club shit and thug shit, innovatin myself
Exploring and revolutionizing my music in both club and street genres
But you'll never catch the
God incriminating my 'self' f'real
But you won't ever find evidence of me, a divine figure, implicating myself, seriously
In The Garden of Hip Hop always stay true
In the realm of Hip Hop, always remain authentic
And always remember just what a snake do
And consistently recall the deceitful nature of snakes
Watch those around you cuz
They'll be fake too
Be cautious of those around you because they could also be deceitful
And never let the game make you
And never allow the industry to change who you are
In The Garden of Hip Hop stay in circle
Within the realm of Hip Hop, stay connected to your community
There's a lot to see beneath
Where the dirt is
There's much to discover underground, where the struggle exists
Dig a little deeper to scratch the surface
Examine further to begin to understand the underlying truth
Maybe then you'll understand your purpose
Perhaps then you'll comprehend your true calling
Now reflecting on the game kid i have to say
Now, looking back on the industry, I must say
Much love to the one Jam Master Jay
Sending much love to the late Jam Master Jay
A loss that hit the world of
Hip hop like John Lennon
A tragedy that impacted the world of Hip Hop similar to the loss of John Lennon
Chapter out of life that
Prevailed the wrong inning
A part of life that ended prematurely
Still from the Notorious, hearts are shooken
The passing of the Notorious B.I.G. still deeply affects us
The streets started lookin like we
Missing part of Brooklyn
The neighborhoods began to feel like they were missing an essential piece of Brooklyn
A disappointing flavor that we taste before
A bitter experience that we've encountered previously
But a spots been secured for the late Shakur
However, a place has been reserved for the late Tupac Shakur
The pain was severe when we lost Aaliyah
The pain was overwhelming when we lost Aaliyah
We try to get by
Then turn around and lost Left Eye
We try to cope with the loss, but then we lost Left Eye as well
We even see how fatal diseases be
Snatchin playaz like Eazy-E, easily
We witness how deadly diseases easily claim the lives of artists like Eazy-E
Respect to Freaky Tah, Big L and Big Pun
Paying respect to the late Freaky Tah, Big L, and Big Pun
The big one
Who left the Terror Squad forever scarred
The significant individual who left the Terror Squad permanently affected
Your lifestyle and your musical gift
In the hearts of many
You will truly be missed f'real
Your way of life and your talent deeply touched the hearts of many, and you will genuinely be missed
I never claimed to be the
Kid slingin rocks for Ex
I never pretended to be the person involved in drug dealing
Never claimed to be the kid
That be poppin the teks
I never portrayed myself as the one using firearms
But if you look it's like my
Name got stock in the jets
However, if you observe, it seems like my reputation is highly valued
That ain't my style though
I simply not wish to flex
That's not my approach; I just don't desire to show off
But if you want we can sit
And talk dollars and checks
However, if you're interested, we can discuss finances
And good investments
And what follows it next
And wise investments, and what comes after that
You sittin there lookin brolic and vexed
You're sitting there appearing angry and frustrated
Tryna screwface dudes
I'm tryna facescrew the opposite sex
Attempting to intimidate guys, while I'm trying to attract the attention of ladies
Take a glass of the Remy, start with the Ex
Have a drink of Remy Martin, begin with the X-rated version
I never had patron but shit I'll
Take a shot of it next
I never had Tequila Patron, but hey, I'll try it next
Life is beautiful Jeff, for real man
Life is truly splendid, Jeff, my friend
Trying to tell you ohhh Jazzy Jeff
I'm sincerely trying to express myself, Jazzy Jeff
Lyrics © TUNECORE INC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: ANTONIO M. HARDY, DORRIS BYRON SCOTT, JEFFREY A ROBERSON, MICHAEL KURT JACKSON, SYLVESTER EARL POWELL, TARIANO ADARYLL JACKSON
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Stinger Garvin
Jeff and Kane what more needs to be said on this dope ass track
Patrick Wheaton Jr
I like this song,so much soul. You gotta listen to the words in this song. It's all about that positive rap music.
INTRIGUED
Thanks for posting it