Contrary to popular belief, he did not found nor even co-found Gang Starr.
He was introduced to DJing while attending school at Prairie View A&M in Houston, Texas. DJ Premier's original stage name was Waxmaster C, the "C" taken from his first name, Chris, although he had already changed it to DJ Premier at the time he joined Gang Starr.
Considered by many fans to be one of the greatest hip hop producers, DJ Premier has produced countless tracks, for many groups and solo artists since the early 1990s. These include notable tracks for artists such as Jay-Z ("D'Evils", "So Ghetto"), Big L ("The Enemy"), The Notorious B.I.G. ("Unbelievable", "Kick In The Door", "Ten Crack Commandments"), Nas ("N.Y. State of Mind", "Nas Is Like"), Pitch Black ("It's All Real"), M.O.P. ("Downtown Swinga"), Jeru the Damaja ("Come Clean", "My Mind Spray"), KRS-One ("MC's Act Like They Don't Know"), Mos Def ("Mathematics"), Non Phixion ("Rockstars"), and Royce da 5'9" ("Boom").(Full list: djpremiertrackology.8kilo.com)
Collaborations
Outside of Gang Starr, some of Premier's most lauded work is his collaborations with Jeru the Damaja and Group Home. With the former, Premier crafted one of the East Coast's landmark albums in the form of The Sun Rises in the East, released in 1994. Their follow up to this, 1996's Wrath of the Math, was regarded as a solid effort but not on par with its predecessor, although it did contain Jeru's biggest hit to date, "Ya Playin' Yaself". Group Home's Livin' Proof (1995), although greatly overlooked at the time of its release, has eventually come to be critically acclaimed.
In 1994, DJ Premier collaborated extensively with jazz musician Branford Marsalis's experimental group, Buckshot Lefonque, for their debut album. During the making of music video director, Hype Williams' 1998 film, Belly, DJ Premier collaborated with neo soul leader D'Angelo for a song called "Devil's Pie", which was originally intended only for the film's accompanying soundtrack. However D'Angelo soon changed his mind and decided to include the song on his sophomore album Voodoo (2000) In 2006 he co-produced Christina Aguilera's Back To Basics album.
Samples
DJ Premier's style of production epitomises the New York sound from his earlier peers. He is known for sampling jazz, funk, and soul artists, as well as sampling an artist's past work, when he is creating a new track for that same artist. In addition, his photographic memory of rap lyrics allows him to distinctively "speak with his hands" by scratching in lyrics from several different songs to construct new phrases [1]. Premier's non-Gang Starr collaborations are well-known for his often-imitated signature of combining short vocal samples, often from multiple artists, to create a chorus. For example, for the chorus of Mos Def's "Mathematics", Premier cuts, in quick succession:
"The Mighty Mos Def..." (from Mos Def's "Body Rock"),
"It's simple mathematics" (from Fat Joe's "John Blaze"),
"I revolve around science..." (from Ghostface Killah's verse on Raekwon's "Criminology"),
"What are we talking about here..." (unknown origin),
"Do your math.." (from Erykah Badu's "On & On"), and
"One, two, three, four" (from James Brown's "Funky Drummer")
On certain artists' work the vocal samples will all be vocal samples of the artist from the artists' past work; "Nas Is Like" and "2nd Childhood" with Nas are two well-known examples of this.
On Jeru the Damaja's "Physical Stamina," however, Premier sampled and chopped up recordings of seminal electro-acoustic music from the 1960s.
Melodies
Premier usually creates a two-bar melody that repeats itself throughout the song. The aim of this is to showcase the MC's skills by bringing focus away from the beat, while creating the song's mood and a solid backdrop. Premier often changes speeds, filters and chops his breaks and adds scope to the melody with chimes and strings.
He has also shown innovation by playing rarely-used elements into a rap song (such as the xylophones on Biggie's "Kick in the Door" or the ambient nature sounds on Nas' "Nas is Like"), and his wide range of instruments (the piano loop on Jay-Z's "D'Evils" versus the strings on Rakim's "New York (Ya Out There?") and production techniques (he played the melody backwards during the second half of Jay-Z's "A Million and One Questions (Rhyme No More)").
Drums
Premier's drums have been known for complimenting his melodies. For example, during Nas' "NY State of Mind", two bars have a simple round of kicks and snares; in the following two, a complementing second set of drums plays out. This is repeated throughout.
Label ownership and future projects
DJ Premier currently owns two record labels. "Year Round Records" was founded in 2002 and has so far released several DJ Premier mixtapes as well as two 12" vinyl singles for NYG'z and Blaq Poet. "Works Of Mart", which is also the name of his publishing company, was founded in mid 2006 and released 12" vinyl singles for artists Tef (aka Teflon) and F.A.B.I.D. (H. Stax and Mike Rone).
Since 2001, DJ Premier mentioned several times the plan to release a solo album entitled "A Man Of Few Words", which has yet to be released. Other confirmed upcoming projects are a full-length colaboration with Nas, Blaq Poet's long delayed album "The Best That Never Did It", Tef's (aka Teflon) long announced album "Contraband" and last but not least protegΓ©s NYG'z long delayed debut album "Pros and Cons".
Lettin' Off Steam
DJ Premier Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
And we still came back for that green, mane
Yeah, yeah, yeah, still rap supreme, mane
Yeah, yeah, hold up (now look at 'em)
Wait, I said
Paint my thoughts on imaginary canvas
I take no loss, I can't give these niggas chances
I do it for the love, they just do it for the camera
I don't need no fame or no glamour
I just need some money in the bank and my hammers
House in the Hamptons, mansions in Miami
And Pateks for my legacy, I can't forget my family
First I get the Oscar, then I get the Grammy
Give it all I got, yeah, I don't need no plan B
I be with them shottas, I been on a kill spree
You gon' need a doctor, he gon' have to bill me
They be like, "Chill, B," I be like, "Fuck that"
Time to let them feel me, don't call it a comeback
Hit 'em with a punchline, call it lyrical combat
When I drop the album, that's gon' kill 'em on contact
Ridin' with that compact
.40 on me, homie, you might really wanna calm that
Opps get smoked like the bomb pack
Watch me like Comcast, y'all see the contrast
Niggas put they souls in they motherfuckin' contracts
We ain't even on that, we don't even condone that
Bitch, I had to own all that, tell 'em switch up for the format
Flow way needed and that Gentleman Cognac
Shots to the head, tell you pussy niggas, "Hold that" (hold that)
(Bah, now look at 'em) yeah
Joey Bad and Big Preem, man, be the supreme team, uh, look
(Joey Bad and Big Preem came to collect the green) wait
Say when then
I let it fly like bullets off the boulevard of Linden
So duck down or die, straight shots when I send 'em
Apply pressure to break tendons
I'm Bone Crusher, I'm big business, you niggas need fitness
I can show y'all the real flexer
First I raise the bar, then raise they ledger
When the stakes is high, I gave all effort
You niggas ain't steppin' correct, you two left foot
I put it all on me, versus whoever
Call me Joey McCaffrey, I hardly drop the ball ever
Check the stats sheet, still don't see no errors
Men lie, women lie, them numbers however, always add up
Tell them niggas, "Catch up"
Ready for them opportunities that I don't pass up
You can get smoked lil' nigga, don't get gassed up
Leavin' no hope for you niggas, that's a bad look
Got your niggas mad shook
Scared to death, scared to book
A show in my city, probably get your chain took
'Cause them Brooklyn niggas really ain't nothin' to fuck with
Blow your brains in broad day, right out in public
So speak on the God and it better be in high regard
'Cause word get around and them bullets travel really far
I got hitters on my squad who ready to take a charge
Keep it on deck for any nigga tryna pull my card (uh)
Joey Bad and Big Preem came to collect the green
Know what I mean?
Joey Bad and Big Preem came to collect the green
Know what I mean?
Joey Bad, Joey Bad
Joey Bad and Big Preem came to collect the green
Know what I mean?
Now look at 'em
The lyrics of DJ Premier's song "Lettin' Off Steam" featuring Joey Badass exhibit a sense of confidence, determination, and a focus on success. Joey Badass starts by expressing his commitment to his craft, stating that he puts his all into each and every stanza. He emphasizes that he does it for love and authenticity, while others are merely chasing fame. He aspires for financial stability and a luxurious lifestyle, with references to having money in the bank, hammers (guns) for protection, houses in the Hamptons and mansions in Miami, and prestigious watches.
Joey Badass also highlights his ambition for recognition in both the acting and music industries, mentioning winning an Oscar and a Grammy. He emphasizes his dedication to his art, stating that he doesn't need a backup plan and is willing to put in the work to achieve his goals. The lyrics also touch on his determination to prove himself and make a comeback, with his punchlines and lyricism being his weapons of choice. He warns his adversaries that they will need medical attention after being lyrically annihilated.
In the second verse, Joey Badass showcases his storytelling skills and confidence in his abilities. He proclaims his supremacy and warns those who oppose him to either duck down or face his wrath. He compares himself to Bone Crusher, emphasizing his stature in the industry and dismissing the need for opponents to get in shape to compete with him. He takes pride in being consistent, rarely dropping the ball, and excelling in his craft.
Joey Badass declares his dominance by stating that he doesn't make mistakes while others do, using numbers and statistics as evidence. He expresses his readiness to seize opportunities and warns others not to underestimate him. He uses vivid language to describe the consequences of disrespecting him or his city, implying that Brooklyn natives are not to be trifled with and can be violent if provoked. The song concludes with a strong assertion of his position in the rap game and his motivation to collect the success and recognition he deserves.
Overall, "Lettin' Off Steam" showcases Joey Badass's determination, confidence, and hunger for success, while also serving as a testament to DJ Premier's production expertise and contribution to the track.
Line by Line Meaning
Joey Bad and Big Preem and we lettin' off steam
Joey Bad and Big Preem are expressing their emotions and frustrations freely
And we still came back for that green, mane
Despite challenges, they returned to pursue financial success
Yeah, yeah, yeah, still rap supreme, mane
They maintain their dominance and excellence in the rap genre
Yeah, yeah, hold up (now look at 'em)
They pause to reflect upon their achievements and current state
Paint my thoughts on imaginary canvas
Expressing their thoughts and ideas creatively without physical limitations
I take no loss, I can't give these niggas chances
They refuse to accept defeat and won't offer second chances to others
I put my all in each and every single stanza (yeah)
They invest their full effort and passion into each verse they write
I do it for the love, they just do it for the camera
They create music for the genuine love of the art, while others do it purely for attention
I don't need no fame or no glamour
They prioritize substance over fame and superficiality
I just need some money in the bank and my hammers
They desire financial stability and protection
House in the Hamptons, mansions in Miami
Dreaming of luxurious properties in prestigious locations
And Pateks for my legacy, I can't forget my family
They value leaving a lasting legacy and providing for their loved ones
First I get the Oscar, then I get the Grammy
They aim for the highest recognition in both the film and music industries
Give it all I got, yeah, I don't need no plan B
They are fully committed and don't rely on backup plans
I be with them shottas, I been on a kill spree
They affiliate with dangerous individuals and have been relentlessly successful
You gon' need a doctor, he gon' have to bill me
If someone tries to harm them, they'll require medical assistance and will challenge the resulting charges
They be like, "Chill, B," I be like, "Fuck that"
When advised to calm down, they refuse and maintain their assertive attitude
Time to let them feel me, don't call it a comeback
They are reasserting their presence and impact, emphasizing that they never truly left
Hit 'em with a punchline, call it lyrical combat
They deliver clever and impactful lines, engaging in a metaphorical battle through their lyrics
When I drop the album, that's gon' kill 'em on contact
They anticipate their upcoming album will be incredibly successful and impactful upon release
Ridin' with that compact
They carry a small and concealed weapon for protection
.40 on me, homie, you might really wanna calm that
They possess a .40 caliber firearm, warning others to not provoke them
Opps get smoked like the bomb pack
Their adversaries get eliminated or defeated like a pack of cigarettes
Watch me like Comcast, y'all see the contrast
They are being closely observed, similar to how people watch television through the Comcast service, highlighting the noticeable differences between them and others
Niggas put they souls in they motherfuckin' contracts
Other artists compromise their artistic integrity and personal values for the sake of contractual agreements
We ain't even on that, we don't even condone that
They distance themselves from such practices and do not support them
Bitch, I had to own all that, tell 'em switch up for the format
They took ownership of their career choices and urge others to change their approach and adapt to the current trends
Flow way needed and that Gentleman Cognac
They possess a unique and necessary rap style, compared to the refined taste and smoothness of a Gentleman Cognac
Shots to the head, tell you pussy niggas, "Hold that" (hold that)
They aim to deliver impactful and direct messages to their critics and enemies, confidently telling them to endure the consequences of their actions
(Bah, now look at 'em) yeah
They express satisfaction and amusement as they observe the reactions and impact of their actions
Joey Bad and Big Preem, man, be the supreme team, uh, look
Joey Bad and Big Preem form a powerful and dominant duo that stands out among others
(Joey Bad and Big Preem came to collect the green) wait
Joey Bad and Big Preem are determined to obtain financial success and prosperity
Say when then
They are ready for any challenge or opportunity
I let it fly like bullets off the boulevard of Linden
They release their music with intense force and impact, similar to flying bullets on a street called Linden
So duck down or die, straight shots when I send 'em
They warn others to take cover or face the direct consequences of their actions
Apply pressure to break tendons
They exert significant force and pressure to overwhelm their opponents and disrupt their strength
I'm Bone Crusher, I'm big business, you niggas need fitness
They compare themselves to the powerful force of Bone Crusher, emphasizing their superiority and suggesting that others need to improve to compete
I can show y'all the real flexer
They can demonstrate authentic and impressive skills and abilities
First I raise the bar, then raise they ledger
They set high standards and expectations, pushing others to meet those levels of success and financial gain
When the stakes is high, I gave all effort
In situations where the risks and rewards are significant, they put forth their maximum effort
You niggas ain't steppin' correct, you two left foot
They criticize others for their lack of skill and coordination, metaphorically suggesting they have two left feet
I put it all on me, versus whoever
They take full responsibility and face any opponent or challenge fearlessly
Call me Joey McCaffrey, I hardly drop the ball ever
They compare themselves to the reliable football player Joey McCaffrey, emphasizing their consistency and rarely making mistakes
Check the stats sheet, still don't see no errors
Even after reviewing their accomplishments, there are no significant mistakes or flaws to be found
Men lie, women lie, them numbers however, always add up
Despite the potential for deception in people's words, the objective numbers and results always tell the true story
Tell them niggas, "Catch up"
They advise others to work harder and catch up to their level of success
Ready for them opportunities that I don't pass up
They eagerly embrace and make the most of any opportunities that come their way
You can get smoked lil' nigga, don't get gassed up
They warn a overconfident individual that they can be easily defeated or eliminated
Leavin' no hope for you niggas, that's a bad look
They leave no chance or optimism for others, resulting in an unfavorable situation
Got your niggas mad shook
They evoke fear and intimidation in their adversaries
Scared to death, scared to book
Their rivals are so frightened that they refuse to face them or engage in any confrontation
A show in my city, probably get your chain took
If their rivals dare to perform in their hometown, they are at risk of having their valuable chain stolen
'Cause them Brooklyn niggas really ain't nothin' to fuck with
They emphasize the reputation of Brooklyn residents as formidable and dangerous individuals
Blow your brains in broad day, right out in public
They have no qualms about committing acts of violence, even in broad daylight and in public spaces
So speak on the God and it better be in high regard
They demand respect and admiration when others mention their name or speak about them
'Cause word get around and them bullets travel really far
Information spreads quickly, and the consequences of their actions can reach anyone no matter the distance
I got hitters on my squad who ready to take a charge
They have skilled and loyal individuals on their team who are prepared to face legal consequences on their behalf
Keep it on deck for any nigga tryna pull my card (uh)
They are always prepared and ready to defend themselves against anyone who tries to expose or challenge their true nature
Joey Bad and Big Preem came to collect the green
Joey Bad and Big Preem are determined to achieve financial success and prosperity
Know what I mean?
Do you understand the significance and intentions behind their actions and desires?
Now look at 'em
They emphasize the impact and influence of their presence, urging others to recognize their accomplishments
Lyrics Β© Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Reservoir Media Management, Inc.
Written by: A. Markeith Reid, Chris Martin, Jo-Vaugn Virginie
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@rhythmraprock
DJ Premier: That was for his album. He hit me up; his album was already wrapped up. He was just getting in the mixing stage and he hit me up and was like, βYo, let me see if we can squeeze one more in.β He came to my lab and we kicked it. Antman Wonder and I had extra samples I didnβt use for PRhyme 2. I was just thumbing through them just to thumb through him, and Joey was sitting on the couch just saying, βYo, man. That one. That sound like something I could write to.β He wrote to it. We cut it right here. He brought the mic right in the room, did it. When he got down to the end of his album getting mixed to turn it in, he said, βMan, for some reason, yours just doesnβt totally fit the shape of my album.β And I was like, βWell, yo, man. Iβm one song shy of turning in my EP. Let me put it on there.β (via Uproxx)
@Jonpoo1
Thanks for posting man.
@pizzodalp9974
I love the work ethic Preem. Great album ππΏπͺπΏπͺπΏπͺπΏβ€οΈπ³π¬
@johncooney93
I can't imagine ever doing a song with Preem and saying it doesn't fit the shape of my album...crazy
@schmule460
this some grade A comment section material. appreciate the lore brother.
@9G0D
@John Cooney you put clout before the art
@reidanlee5216
Seeing Joey live tomorrow and this drops tonight⦠absolutely BLESSED
@teddytibbs2032
Am so syked for you bro!!
@antoniokocoski3268
I WILL ALSO BE THERR
@Gggg-cq1ih
Save your money