Itโs said that art mirrors life. In hip-hopโs case, thereโs always been a deliberate entanglement of perception and reality. Fans demand their MCs be realโฆbut never too real. Successful hip-hop is about the hint of the danger, the tease of it, the mystique. Hip-hop is about balance.
Gucci Mane is an artist striving for that balance, volatility versus musicality. Controversy, including a feud with former collaborator Young Jeezy, has grabbed the headlines, with insufficient regard paid to his considerable mic skills, raw talent, and business acumen. Gucci is looking to wrest his name from public speculation and let his own words do the talking.
โI wish everybody well whoโs making money in this rap game,โ the Atlanta-raised rapper says, dismissing the controversy that followed him in the past. โMy own rap game is going so good, Iโve got so many things on my plate at my label, that I donโt got time for other peopleโs business.โ With a deal with Asylum Records as the boss of his own label, So Icey Entertainment, Gucci does indeed have a full schedule with no time to dwell on the past.
โI live my life with no regrets. I just wish that a lot of things never happened, but anybody can wish,โ says Gucci. Sounds like a man with his eyes on the prize. And youโd expect nothing less from an artist who ground his way to the top via the hustle of independent records. Signing to Big Cat Records in the wake of his local single โBlack Tee,โ he dropped his debut record, Trap House, in May 2005. The independent album moved an impressive 140,000 units, largely on the strength of the โIcyโ single, featuring Jeezy. Clamor over song rights sparked dispute, and the resulting rift grew.
Controversy notwithstanding, Maneโs independence was cemented: โI was on the independent scene for about two years,โ he recalls. โItโs crazy! You gotta go into your own pocket to support your craft. You need other avenues to have money coming in, to support your stuff. You might win, you might lose, and itโs a gamble out there with the independent circuit. One thing youโd better have is good music because without that, you go downhill fast in the independent game.โ
Good music firmly in hand, Gucci was fast approaching stardom when more tragedy befell him. But letโs backtrack; how did the man born Radric Davis in Bessemer, Alabama, become Gucci Mane, mouthpiece for Atlanta stuntinโ? Mane remembers little from his time in Alabama, just that it was rural, and that itโs changed dramatically since he left at the age of nine. โI gotta shout out Alabama though, because they holdinโ it down,โ he affirms. โEvery time I go there to do a show, Iโm impressed with how hip-hop culture has taken root.โ
Maneโs identity coalesced when he moved with his mother to Atlanta. โI lived all of my adolescent and adult life in Atlanta,โ he explains. โIโm from East Atlanta Zone Six; it was hard, man, it was real rough. I grew up in the Starter jacket era: theyโd take your Starter jacket, your 8Ball jacket, theyโd take your hat, your shoes. It was just no holds barred on the streets, dog eat dog. If you missed the bus, you had to be crewed up or youโd get jumped. It was wild when I came up.โ
Itโs a bleak portrait. When asked to describe his home life more vividly, Mane offers a look into his contemplative side, a side honed as a schoolyard poet. โI was just a young dude in a single parent house most of my life. I canโt complain that much. I would guess itโs like any black child growing up in a single parent household. There are a lot of people who know how that is. I didnโt have a lot coming up; but what I did have, I appreciated. I was blessed to have a caring mother to raise me right and to help me with my business ventures; sheโs been there through the whole struggle. Thereโs a lot that goes along with that; it made me who I am today.โ
A stepfather would enter the picture during Maneโs adolescence, introducing not only a male figure, but also inspiration for Maneโs unusual moniker. โMy father came in, the original Gucci Mane; thatโs what people in the neighborhood called him, and thatโs where I get my name from. From then on, I grew up the son of a hustler and a schoolteacher; it was the best of both worlds because I was educated twice.โ Drawing inspiration from a pantheon of rappers before him โBig Daddy Kane, LL Cool J, Ice Cube, the Beastie Boys, N.W.AโMane went on to release Trap House, a lethal brew of his signature sound: โI call my music straight Gucci: going hard and whatever beats you make you for me, if Iโm feeling it, if Iโm rocking with it, Iโm gonna crush it. When you hear me, you hear a lot of pain, a lot of hood; you hear whatโs going on in the inner city in Atlanta.โ
Unfortunately, Trap House was ill timed; the month of its release, Gucci was accused of murder and jailed for two days. Eventually deemed to be acting in self-defense, and without sufficient evidence to hold him, Mane was exonerated. But the ordeal left an indelible imprint on the man. โI learned to keep better company, watch where I go, and be mindful of my surroundings at all times,โ he reveals. โWatch what I say, watch what I do and how I do it, just keep myself out of the wrong crowd.โ
โI always stand up man,โ he continues. โIโm one of the toughest guys I know. Itโll take a lot more than that to break me down.โ Undeterred, Mane was back in the studio, preparing 2006โs eerily apropos Hard To Kill. The buzz from Hard To Kill vaulted Gucci Mane from regional commodity to national treasure, and major labels responded accordingly: โThere was a bidding war going on, and I liked Atlanticโs approach. They made it known that they wanted me, they felt where I was going and that I could grow with them.โ
Asylum/Atlantic Records welcomed Gucci Mane in early โ07, granting him his own imprint, So Icey Entertainment. With it comes an entire stable of artists, the So Icey Boyz. As the Boyz ready for their own exposure โโI got them in training; they be in the weight room, pumping iron, doing pushups, shopping at the mall, buying iceโโGucci is focused on his magnum opus, Back to the Trap House. โI started working on the album, and by the third song, I was like โThis is going back to the Trap House.โ I started feeling the same way I did when I made my first album. It had the same feel to it, the same freshness. And I had the same hunger and desire I had when I first started rapping.โ
โSince I went major, I want everybody to know Iโm still keeping it street, keeping it hood,โ Gucci maintains. โIโm trying to take it back to all my fans that I had when I first started my career. And at the same time, Iโm trying to open up my new album to a new fan base. So itโs a mix for everybody coming together, like my first album was.โ Gucci has always prided himself on his innate ability, and his refusal to let guest appearances dictate the tone of his records. โI just want people to know Iโm a great songwriter, man,โ he asserts. โIโm passionate about what I do, and itโs choreographed strategically when I do it. I bring a lot of experience, creative wordplay, and a crazy style. And my albums, I record most of the songs without writing them down; itโs a God-given gift and I just get paid for it. It come from God, itโs like wondering what makes a bird fly. He made me a poet like the great poets of the past.โ
But donโt mistake Gucciโs confidence for self-absorption. The vicissitudes of his career have dictated a longer view. Lyrics aside, heโs less preoccupied with visible means and more so with acting as an emissary from his under-repped block. โIโm not the one to glorify what goes on in the hood,โ he insists. โWe have everything there, the whole range from violence to people getting on the bus and going to work. Thereโs a lot more to the hood than just drugs. Itโs a bigger story, thereโs a big picture. I went to school in that neighborhood, I worked there, I trapped there, I hustled there, and I got my name there. Iโm proud to be from East Atlanta Zone Six, and I claim there. I hold that on my back and carry that, to be the first one from there to really rock.โ
And Gucciโs professional aims have matured as well. While other rappers stress platinum plaques, Gucci hasnโt forgotten the route he took to stardom. โI made a lot of CDs on my own. People fucked with me and supported me, and just made me the man I am today. Thatโs my blueprint right there, and I stay mindful of it. So now, my only concern is that people feel my music; at the end of the day, I do it for people to feel it. If one person feel it, two people feel it, I feel like my jobโs been done.โ
Fortunately for Gucci, he should be prepared to welcome an army of new fans with Back to the Trap House. But longstanding fans shouldnโt fear; theyโll recognize โFreaky Gurl,โ reprised from its previous appearance from Hard To Kill. Luda, upon hearing the joint, asked for a guest spot on the remix. Said remix now appears as the lead single on Back to the Trap House, following in Gucciโs theme of mating old and new. Over a bouncing, meandering beat from Cyber Sapp, the two cook up the requisite concoction of whips, chips, and chicks. Also look out for โBird Flu,โ the albumโs number two single, laced by New-York based Supa Sonics. Elsewhere, firm guest verses from Rich Boy and Pimp C of UGK round out Gucciโs regional flavor, while Bay-area producer Zaytoven (of โIcyโ renown) locks down Gucciโs West Coast appeal.
Gucci Mane has something for everyone, and with the struggles of the past in his rearview, Gucci is settled in for his ride to the top. โIโm best known for controversy but Iโm trying to gain respect as a songwriter and entertainer. I plan to hit them so hard with this album; who knows what the future will bring. Iโll be banging them out till I canโt bang no more.โ
Hi-Five
Gucci Mane Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
When you worth like twenty mill the kids admire ya
When your rap sheet look like mine they won't hire ya
But when you sign yourself like I did they can't fire ya
You want your club so loud then put me on the flier (Its gucci)
I'm on fire like Richard Pryor my price gettin' higher
How you gon' take my title drivin' a car without a title
I'm whippin' through rush hour Charlotte traffic in a spyder
Dive off in that pussy like a deep sea diver
Niggas from my hood know me from cheap cheap powder
But niggas on your block say you'se a real weak coward
High five, low five
I left them niggas hangin' they get no five
Gucci Mane they say that I got nine lives
Six Flags Over Georgia, I got nine rides
High five, low five
I left them bitches hanging they get no five
Gucci Mane they say that I got nine lives
Come go to Gucci World 'cause I got nine rides
Fuck yo jam of the week I gput grams on the street
So much money gave Metro a hundred grand for the beat
So much ice around my bezel you can't see, the Patek
I'm Felipe, in Felipe's
With a freak, she petite
From the beach, to the street
From the street to the suite
Put my bone in her mouth told her bon appรฉtit
I done sold so many keys they should deport me to Belize
'Cause I'm shining on these niggas like a desert with no trees
From the hat on my head to the shoes on my feet
Every garment on my body it come from overseas
In them 'partments I was raised I sold like 50,000 P's
You want Gucci on your song, that's at least a hundred G's
High five, low five
I left them niggas hangin' they get no five
Gucci Mane they say that I got nine lives
Six Flags Over Georgia, I got nine rides
High five, low five
I left them bitches hanging they get no five
Gucci Mane they say that I got nine lives
Come go to Gucci World 'cause I got nine rides
In the song "Hi-Five," Gucci Mane reflects on his success and how his wealth and reputation have influenced his status in the music industry and in his community. He starts by acknowledging that he has invested a significant amount of money into his house, intending to inspire others who come from difficult backgrounds like his own. Gucci Mane's worth is highlighted, and he mentions that his rap sheet, which likely refers to his criminal history, could have hindered his chances of being hired by others. However, he emphasizes that signing himself, essentially being his own boss, grants him security and independence.
Gucci Mane asserts his dominance and popularity in the club scene, suggesting that if you want a loud and successful night, you should include him on the promotional flyer. He compares his level of fame and influence to that of Richard Pryor, a renowned comedian known for his fiery performances, as he mentions that his prices continue to rise. Gucci Mane challenges anyone who questions his title, especially if they themselves do not possess the necessary credentials, such as a car title. He boasts about his ability to navigate through heavy traffic in a luxury car, likening it to the skill and precision of a racecar driver.
The chorus "High five, low five" refers to the idea of validation and recognition. Gucci Mane acknowledges that he has left certain individuals hanging, denying them the positive acknowledgment of a high-five. He asserts that he has a reputation of having nine lives, with reference to his resilience and ability to bounce back from challenges and setbacks. Gucci Mane also mentions Six Flags Over Georgia, a popular amusement park, indicating that he has achieved enough success to have access to nine rides within the park.
Overall, the lyrics of "Hi-Five" exemplify Gucci Mane's confidence, success, and determination to overcome obstacles in his life and career.
Line by Line Meaning
I put eight mill in my crib to inspire ya
I invested eight million dollars in my house to motivate and impress others.
When you worth like twenty mill the kids admire ya
When you're worth around twenty million dollars, young people look up to you and respect you.
When your rap sheet look like mine they won't hire ya
If your criminal record is as extensive as mine, nobody would want to employ you.
But when you sign yourself like I did they can't fire ya
However, when you establish your own independence like I did, nobody can dismiss or release you.
You want your club so loud then put me on the flier (Its gucci)
If you want your club event to be exciting and popular, make sure to include me in the promotional flyer.
I'm on fire like Richard Pryor my price gettin' higher
I am extremely successful and in high demand, similar to how Richard Pryor was a popular and expensive entertainer.
How you gon' take my title drivin' a car without a title
How can you claim to be superior or take my position when you don't even have proper ownership or credentials?
I'm whippin' through rush hour Charlotte traffic in a spyder
I am driving a fast, expensive sports car through busy rush hour traffic in Charlotte.
Slide up on ya bitch like a racecar driver
I approach and seduce your girl swiftly and confidently, just like a professional racecar driver maneuvers.
Dive off in that pussy like a deep sea diver
I engage in sexual activities with great enthusiasm and intensity, comparing it to the exploration of the deep sea as a diver.
Niggas from my hood know me from cheap cheap powder
People from my neighborhood recognize me for my involvement in the drug trade, particularly the distribution of low-cost narcotics.
But niggas on your block say you'se a real weak coward
However, individuals in your area consider you to be a truly feeble and cowardly person.
High five, low five
Acknowledge my success with a celebratory gesture, either a high five or a low five.
I left them niggas hangin' they get no five
I intentionally neglected to offer my hand for a high five, denying those individuals the recognition and approval they seek.
Gucci Mane they say that I got nine lives
People often claim that I have an extraordinary ability to overcome adversity and bounce back from mistakes, just like a cat with nine lives.
Six Flags Over Georgia, I got nine rides
Similar to the amusement park Six Flags Over Georgia, I possess a variety of thrilling experiences and adventures, symbolized as 'nine rides'.
Come go to Gucci World 'cause I got nine rides
Come visit my world, where I've created a luxurious and exciting experience, featuring numerous thrilling opportunities for enjoyment.
Fuck yo jam of the week I gput grams on the street
I don't care about your current favorite song, as I focus on selling drugs (grams) and making money on the streets.
So much money gave Metro a hundred grand for the beat
I paid the famous music producer, Metro Boomin, a substantial amount of money (a hundred grand) for his production on the track.
So much ice around my bezel you can't see, the Patek
I am wearing so many diamonds on my watch that the brand name, Patek Philippe, cannot even be seen clearly.
I'm Felipe, in Felipe's
I am comparing myself to the luxurious restaurant, Felipe's, suggesting that I am sophisticated and deserving of high-end treatment.
With a freak, she petite
I am accompanied by a sexually adventurous partner who is small and slender.
From the beach, to the street
We transition seamlessly from relaxing at the beach to engaging in activities and socializing on the streets.
From the street to the suite
Continuing from the street, we indulge in luxury as we move into an upscale hotel suite.
Put my bone in her mouth told her bon appรฉtit
I inserted my genitalia into her mouth, playfully suggesting she enjoys performing oral sex as if she's savoring a delicious meal (bon appรฉtit).
I done sold so many keys they should deport me to Belize
I have sold such large quantities of drugs (keys), jokingly suggesting that I should be deported to Belize due to my illicit activities.
'Cause I'm shining on these niggas like a desert with no trees
I am radiating with success and wealth, comparable to the intense reflection of sunlight in a treeless desert.
From the hat on my head to the shoes on my feet
Every part of my outfit, from the hat I wear to the shoes I have on, symbolizes my fashionable and expensive taste.
Every garment on my body it come from overseas
All the clothing I wear is imported from foreign countries, further emphasizing my preference for luxury and exclusivity.
In them 'partments I was raised I sold like 50,000 P's
During my upbringing in the apartments, I was involved in selling a significant number (50,000) of narcotics (P's).
You want Gucci on your song, that's at least a hundred G's
If you desire my presence and contribution to your music, it will cost you a minimum of one hundred thousand dollars.
High five, low five
Acknowledge my success with a celebratory gesture, either a high five or a low five.
I left them bitches hanging they get no five
I deliberately excluded those women from receiving any recognition or validation.
Gucci Mane they say that I got nine lives
People often claim that I have an extraordinary ability to overcome adversity and bounce back from mistakes, just like a cat with nine lives.
Six Flags Over Georgia, I got nine rides
Similar to the amusement park Six Flags Over Georgia, I possess a variety of thrilling experiences and adventures, symbolized as 'nine rides'.
High five, low five
Acknowledge my success with a celebratory gesture, either a high five or a low five.
I left them bitches hanging they get no five
I intentionally neglected to offer my hand for a high five, denying those individuals the recognition and approval they seek.
Gucci Mane they say that I got nine lives
People often claim that I have an extraordinary ability to overcome adversity and bounce back from mistakes, just like a cat with nine lives.
Come go to Gucci World 'cause I got nine rides
Come visit my world, where I've created a luxurious and exciting experience, featuring numerous thrilling opportunities for enjoyment.
Lyrics ยฉ Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: KEVIN GOMRINGER, LELAND WAYNE, RADRIC DAVIS, TIM GOMRINGER
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
robbie magnan
Damn always get the chills when I hear these beats
Hnddrixx
Might be his best work.....
Idk, but I am very exited to see what he has in site edit the future BURR!
Scott W
Gucci set my house on fire
Willie Washington
I heard that๐ช๐พ
Anders
Seems like he won da case cuz he ๐ค๐ค๐ค๐ค๐ค๐ค๐ค๐ฏ
Daisy Gonzalez
Set my ears on fire!! ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ
Turner J
This is the Gucci I fuck with!!!
Salman
best track on the album ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ
Marian Mack
MacroChop it fucking does ๐ฅ๐ฅ
CrazY GaMer
and the left