1) Do or Die is an American rap trio originally from Chicago, Illinois. The group experienced mainstream success with the single "Po Pimp", a collaboration with fellow Chicago rapper, Twista, off the album Picture This, that peaked at #22 on the Billboard Hot 100. Group members are Belo Zero, N.A.R.D. (Niggas Ain't Ready to Die) and AK-47. Belo Zero was a late addition to the group w/ Psycho Drama member Young Buk being an original member. Young Buk never recorded any material w/ the group and Belo Zero was later added to the roster. The trio has sold more than 3 million albums. Alongside Crucial Conflict, another Chicago group with a similar vocal and lyrical style, they helped launch the city's first national hip hop movement.
2) Do Or Die is a Belgian Metal band. They have always been a live band. Formed in 1999 and led by their founder/singer Chris, DO OR DIE always felt comfortable on stage, no matter if it was at the big European festivals, opening for bands such as Hatebreed, Agnostic Front, ProPain and Biohazard or in front of 100 kids in a club, they always put out the same energy as if it was their first show. After the first 7 inch EP "Tears of Rage" (500 copies sold in less than a month) got released, they immediately started playing shows non-stop all over Benelux and France. Their first full length "Heart Full of Pain" came out in 2001 on I Scream Records. More shows/tours followed and they also recorded their second record, "The Meaning of Honor", in the same year, which was released in early 2002.
DO OR DIE then faced a tough period in their career. Half of the band decided to quit in 2003 because of a conflict between their personal lives and the exhausting touring attached to being in DO OR DIE. 2004 saw them return with a new line-up and the loudest comeback imaginable, when they played Pressure Fest, Graspop and Fury Fest on the same weekend. "Tradition" got recorded around that time too and was released in 2005, marking their first effort for Alveran Records and the start of their cooperation with M.A.D. Tourbooking, both of which opened the doors to Germany for the band. One of the guitarists left the band in the same year, but the rest of DO OR DIE, already familiar with throwbacks, were not willing to put it down and continued promoting "Tradition" across Germany, Holland, Poland, Sweden, and well known festivals like the Dour Fest, Pressure Fest, With Full Force and even the Superbowl of Hardcore in New York while at the same time writing songs for a new record.
Come 2008, the new album is all wrapped up, carries the title "Pray for Them" and is scheduled for a release on May 23rd. This record marks a new start for the band with a new face and new strength but still holding on to the roots of the previous releases. Do Or Die are back and determined to take back the crown of European Hardcore - 2008 will see the band touring non-stop with "Pray For Them" in their luggage set to destroy every stage they will enter.
3) Do Or Die is a bay area g-rap group from San Francisco, CA.
4) Do Or Die were a christian pop-punk band from North Shore, Auckland NZ. They played numerous shows and won a competition to record and release a single, however it was never fully completed and instead only a test pressing was released. They had a very short-lived career, lasting only a year or two. Members moved on to play in Scenic Drive, Bright Lights, xSunday Schoolx and Alaska.
Li'l Ghetto Boy
Do Or Die Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Whoaaa-ho-ohhhhhhh
I wonder what my life would be if I
Had that paaaper (Ohhhhhh)
I'm just a ghetto boy
A little ghetto boy (Ohhhhh)
The money, power, money and power
How can this world rotate without this money and power?
If I had money, I'd keep my peoples outta poverty
'Cause ain't no more starvin' when y'all around me (Shiiit)
This what it gotta be B, and every playa got paper
Shinin' like a superstar, with matchin' minks and gators
Keepin' our family off this poor table
Cause ain't no food on it
And every crab up in this bucket gotta move on it
I'm just a ghetto boy
Livin' in this ghetto world
Stayin' with' this ghetto chick
Hopin' to have a ghetto girl
And after all, ain't no spaces for that
How can we live up in this world, when ain't no place for the blacks?
Cause every dollar got a dream behind it, we seem to be blinded
Malcom X, he had to dream to remind us
Believe me, havin' money can have this world fucked up
But it can't answer yo' prayers, when you get down on yo' luck
I wonder what my life would be if I
Had that paaaper
I'm just a ghetto boy (Ohhh yes I am)
A little ghetto boy (Ohhh)
Now if I live on top of the world
Shinin' like, diamonds and pearls (Diamonds and pearls)
Still a ghetto boy (Yeaah)
A little ghetto boy (Mmm)
I done lived my life up in the, ghetto
Mama workin' hours
Tryina feed a, family
Daddy's in and out
Takin' baths with' broken showers
Next-door neighbor gave us the vapors
Callin' cops, cause we known to plot
Break in they home, on some bogus capers
But I never thought that it would affect me later
Until I seen the hustle, when niggas ridin' stretch Navigators
But, more now then later, I should come up
Cause I seen my homie on the block, slangin' rocks
And then his spot get gunned up
I never visioned it'd be homicide
Because they told me he'll live
That's what they said when my homie Boosie died
Could all these millions bring my nigga back?
Could all these millions feed children?
Could all these millions make my spirit fat?
Would all my friends become my enemies?
When my family becomes astonished
Will my strengths becomes an enemy?
Is this "pretend to be?
A vivid and magically?
A vivid and magically
I wonder, I wonder
I wonder, whoooooaa-ooohhh-oaahhhhh
I wonder what my life would be if I
Had that paaaper (Had that paper)
I'm just a ghetto boy (Ohhh, ohhh)
A little ghetto boy (If I liiive)
Now if I live on top of the world (The world)
Shinin' like, diamonds and pearls (Diamonds and peaaarls, yeah)
Still a ghetto boy (Mmm)
A little ghetto boy
Back in the days, when I was poor
I'm not poor anymore
But somedays
I said I wish that I was poor again
Back in the days, when I was poor
I'm not poor anymore (Da-da-da-da)
But somedays
I said I wish that I was poor again (Ohhh)
I remember when I stole deep
When it was cold outside
Sellin' packs and holdin' heat
Run up and I fold in the street
Penitentiary moldin' me
And the city get as cold as, thugs
I wonder will I come up? Get gunned up?
Turned up? Or anotha' sta-tistic
And my mama just goin', ball-istic
Realistic-ally, don't wanna do the caper
But I gotta get the paper, niggas ballin'
'Cause the county judge is callin'
And the lawyer keep stallin'
Why my niggas keep fallin', victim
To the same old theory?
Another bad outcome, leavin' mothers just out-done
Then it suddenly just sinked in
That my nigga just died last weekend, tears rollin'
And I'm goin' off the deep end
But I gotta stay stong, for the mothers and the kids
Just standin' there lookin' at the chalk line
In his hand was a cocked nine
Now should I walk a straight line?
'Cause "Time After Time"
I just wanna rewind, and talk to you
At the grave site, gave it to 'em every day and night
But it's alright, and I really wanna talk to you
I really wanna talk to you (Just really wanna talk to you)
Wassup junior, I've been waitin' to say this for a long time
I love you nigga, and I miss you
I wonder what my life would be if I (Whoooaa)
Had that paaaper (Whooaa)
I'm just a ghetto boy (My life would be)
A little ghetto boy (If I liiive)
Now if I live on top of the world
Shinin' like, diamonds and pearls (Diamonds and peaaarls, yeah)
Still a ghetto boy (Mmm)
A little ghetto boy (Ohhh)
The lyrics to "Lil' Ghetto Boy" by Do or Die delve into the struggles of growing up in poverty and the desire to escape it. The song opens with the artist imagining what his life would be like if he had money, stating that he would keep his people out of poverty. He then goes on to explore the idea that money and power are interconnected, and how without them, the world would not function. The artist acknowledges that having money is vital in lifting one's family out of poverty, something that is not possible when there is no food on the table.
The second verse of the song touches on the difficulties of living in a world where there is no place for black people. The artist highlights the fact that every dollar has a dream behind it, but often those dreams are unattainable for those living in poverty. He references the work of Malcom X and recognizes that money can lead to a distorted view of the world. The lyrics suggest that money cannot buy happiness or answer prayers in times of need.
The final verse is a personal reflection on the artist's experience growing up in the ghetto. It discusses the violence and struggle that he and his fellow inhabitants have faced. The lyrics have a sense of nostalgia, with the artist saying that at times, he wishes he was poor again. The song ends with a message to his late friend and a declaration of love.
Line by Line Meaning
Ohh yeaahhh
Expressing enthusiasm and excitement
Whoaaa-ho-ohhhhhhh
Continuing the expression of excitement
I wonder what my life would be if I
Contemplating the potential changes in life
Had that paaaper (Ohhhhhh)
Referring to the power and influence that comes with money
I'm just a ghetto boy
Identifying oneself as someone from a disadvantaged background
A little ghetto boy (Ohhhhh)
Emphasizing the young age and innocence of the individual
They tell me it's like
Acknowledging the opinions and beliefs of others
The money, power, money and power
Highlighting the importance and influence of money and power
How can this world rotate without this money and power?
Questioning the functioning of the world without money and power
If I had money, I'd keep my peoples outta poverty
Desiring to lift loved ones out of poverty with financial means
'Cause ain't no more starvin' when y'all around me (Shiiit)
Promising to provide food and eliminate hunger when surrounded by loved ones
This what it gotta be B, and every playa got paper
Understanding the importance of money and power in one's lifestyle
Shinin' like a superstar, with matchin' minks and gators
Aspiring to display wealth and success through fashionable clothing
Keepin' our family off this poor table
Striving to improve the financial status of the family
Cause ain't no food on it
Acknowledging the lack of food and resources
And every crab up in this bucket gotta move on it
Recognizing the need to make progress and escape difficult circumstances
Livin' in this ghetto world
Describing the surroundings and environment of the individual
Stayin' with' this ghetto chick
Having a relationship with a person from a similar background
Hopin' to have a ghetto girl
Desiring a romantic partner from the same disadvantaged community
And after all, ain't no spaces for that
Realizing the lack of opportunities and acceptance for such relationships
How can we live up in this world, when ain't no place for the blacks?
Questioning the struggles and discrimination faced by black individuals
Cause every dollar got a dream behind it, we seem to be blinded
Recognizing the allure and influence of money on dreams and aspirations
Malcom X, he had to dream to remind us
Highlighting the inspirational figure of Malcom X and his message
Believe me, havin' money can have this world fucked up
Acknowledging the negative effects that money can have on society
But it can't answer yo' prayers, when you get down on yo' luck
Realizing that money cannot solve all problems or bring true happiness
Now if I live on top of the world
Imagining oneself in a position of great success and wealth
Shinin' like, diamonds and pearls (Diamonds and pearls)
Describing the extravagant lifestyle and appearance
Still a ghetto boy
Despite the success, still feeling connected to one's disadvantaged background
I done lived my life up in the, ghetto
Reflecting on a life spent in a disadvantaged neighborhood
Mama workin' hours
Acknowledging the hard work and sacrifice of one's mother
Tryina feed a, family
Struggling to provide for the entire family
Daddy's in and out
Referring to the inconsistency and absence of the father figure
Takin' baths with' broken showers
Using broken facilities and lacking basic necessities
Next-door neighbor gave us the vapors
Experiencing hostility and negative treatment from neighbors
Callin' cops, cause we known to plot
Being unfairly targeted and misunderstood by law enforcement
Break in they home, on some bogus capers
Engaging in illegal activities due to desperation and limited options
But I never thought that it would affect me later
Realizing the consequences and long-lasting impact of one's actions
Until I seen the hustle, when niggas ridin' stretch Navigators
Witnessing the success and wealth achieved through illegal activities
But, more now then later, I should come up
Feeling the pressure to find a way out and achieve success
Cause I seen my homie on the block, slangin' rocks
Observing a friend involved in drug dealing to make ends meet
And then his spot get gunned up
Experiencing violence and danger in the drug dealing business
I never visioned it'd be homicide
Surprised by the tragic outcome and loss of life
Because they told me he'll live
Being misled and falsely reassured about the friend's survival
That's what they said when my homie Boosie died
Recalling the painful loss of a friend named Boosie
Could all these millions bring my nigga back?
Questioning the value and meaning of wealth in the face of death
Could all these millions feed children?
Reflecting on the responsibility to use wealth for the betterment of society
Could all these millions make my spirit fat?
Contemplating if material wealth can truly fulfill one's inner desires and happiness
Would all my friends become my enemies?
Worrying about the effects of success and wealth on relationships
When my family becomes astonished
Considering the impact of one's success on the family's perception
Will my strengths becomes an enemy?
Questioning if the qualities and talents that led to success can become detrimental
Is this "pretend to be?
Reflecting on the authenticity of one's newfound success and persona
A vivid and magically?
Contemplating the surreal and unexpected nature of one's journey
I wonder, I wonder
Continuing to ponder and question the complexities of life
Wassup junior, I've been waitin' to say this for a long time
Addressing someone named Junior and expressing the desire to convey a heartfelt message
I love you nigga, and I miss you
Expressing love and longing for the person named Junior
Back in the days, when I was poor
Recalling a time of financial struggle and hardship
I'm not poor anymore
Acknowledging the current state of financial stability
But somedays
Admitting that there are still moments of longing for the simpler past
I said I wish that I was poor again
Expressing the sentiment that simplicity and lack of wealth had their own merits
I remember when I stole deep
Reflecting on past instances of engaging in criminal activities
When it was cold outside
Recalling the challenging and difficult circumstances faced
Sellin' packs and holdin' heat
Engaging in drug dealing and carrying weapons for self-protection
Run up and I fold in the street
Encountering dangerous situations and reacting with violence
Penitentiary moldin' me
Acknowledging the negative influence and impact of incarceration
And the city get as cold as, thugs
Describing the harsh and unforgiving nature of the city and its inhabitants
I wonder will I come up? Get gunned up?
Questioning the potential outcomes of one's current lifestyle
Turned up? Or anotha' sta-tistic
Considering the possibilities of success, encountering violence, or becoming a statistic
And my mama just goin', ball-istic
Anticipating the emotional reaction of one's mother to dangerous situations
Realistic-ally, don't wanna do the caper
Realizing the negative consequences and risks associated with criminal activities
But I gotta get the paper, niggas ballin'
Feeling compelled to pursue money and success despite the risks
'Cause the county judge is callin'
Acknowledging the presence of legal trouble and the need to address it
And the lawyer keep stallin'
Expressing frustration with the legal process and delays
Why my niggas keep fallin', victim
Questioning why friends and acquaintances continue to face negative outcomes
To the same old theory?
Reflecting on the patterns and cycles of struggles and adversity
Another bad outcome, leavin' mothers just out-done
Highlighting the negative impact on mothers and families when tragedies occur
Then it suddenly just sinked in
Experiencing a sudden realization or understanding
That my nigga just died last weekend, tears rollin'
Expressing the recent loss and grief over the death of a friend
And I'm goin' off the deep end
Feeling emotionally overwhelmed and losing control
But I gotta stay stong, for the mothers and the kids
Recognizing the need to stay strong for the sake of others affected by the tragedy
Just standin' there lookin' at the chalk line
Visualizing the scene of the crime and the impact it has on the community
In his hand was a cocked nine
Describing the weapon found in the deceased's hand
Now should I walk a straight line?
Questioning whether to make positive and lawful choices moving forward
'Cause "Time After Time"
Referencing the passage of time and the importance of making the right decisions
I just wanna rewind, and talk to you
Expressing the desire to turn back time and have a conversation with the deceased
At the grave site, gave it to 'em every day and night
Reflecting on the love and support given to the deceased while they were alive
But it's alright, and I really wanna talk to you
Accepting the reality of the situation but still longing for communication
I really wanna talk to you (Just really wanna talk to you)
Expressing the strong desire and need for conversation with the deceased
Wassup junior, I've been waitin' to say this for a long time
Addressing someone named Junior and expressing the desire to convey a heartfelt message
I love you nigga, and I miss you
Expressing love and longing for the person named Junior
Lyrics Β© Peermusic Publishing, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: DARNELL SMITH, ANTHONY ROUND, DENNIS ROUND, SAMUEL LINDLEY
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Wisconsin Strength
One of my favorite tracks. This beat is ill. The highs, the hook, Do or Die. R.I.P. Johnny P.
Diego Araujo
Uma das melhores musicas de todos os tempos
DJ Guche Grande
and that's old school hip-hop forever...lyrical heavy content that talks to us. RIP Johnny P π
Michael McLean
N.A.R.D. totally owned that last verse. Sent shivers down my spine every time I replayed it. God bless D.O.D.
Shannon Corsi
Not only one of their best songs but one of my top 3 favs.....miss the old times
DUBZYXXIV
DAMN, I REMEMBER LISTENING TO THEIR TAPES WHEN I WAS A LIL KID.
khan
this is the first time i listen to do or die...and most of their songs are nice! THIS IS THE KIND OF HIP-HOP/RNB I WANT
ButterBwoi 13
Certified Classic Shit, only the thorough that lived this era know the essence of D.O.D.'s music.
Ms. Ashley Marie
I remember when this album came out, str8 had this on repeatπβ€
Love Do Or Dieβ€ I used to have every album lol thems was my dawgs lol Never gets old. 2018 still bumpin' R.I.P JP
Mikie Da Poet
Legends!!!! RIP JOHNNY P! Chicago loves yall deeply