Itβs said that art mirrors life. In hip-hopβs case, thereβs always been a deliberate entanglement of perception and reality. Fans demand their MCs be realβ¦but 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.
βI wish everybody well whoβs making money in this rap game,β the Atlanta-raised rapper says, dismissing the controversy that followed him in the past. βMy own rap game is going so good, Iβve got so many things on my plate at my label, that I donβt got time for other peopleβs business.β 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.
βI live my life with no regrets. I just wish that a lot of things never happened, but anybody can wish,β says Gucci. Sounds like a man with his eyes on the prize. And youβd 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 βBlack Tee,β 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 βIcyβ single, featuring Jeezy. Clamor over song rights sparked dispute, and the resulting rift grew.
Controversy notwithstanding, Maneβs independence was cemented: βI was on the independent scene for about two years,β he recalls. βItβs 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 itβs a gamble out there with the independent circuit. One thing youβd better have is good music because without that, you go downhill fast in the independent game.β
Good music firmly in hand, Gucci was fast approaching stardom when more tragedy befell him. But letβs backtrack; how did the man born Radric Davis in Bessemer, Alabama, become Gucci Mane, mouthpiece for Atlanta stuntinβ? Mane remembers little from his time in Alabama, just that it was rural, and that itβs changed dramatically since he left at the age of nine. βI gotta shout out Alabama though, because they holdinβ it down,β he affirms. βEvery time I go there to do a show, Iβm impressed with how hip-hop culture has taken root.β
Maneβs identity coalesced when he moved with his mother to Atlanta. βI lived all of my adolescent and adult life in Atlanta,β he explains. βIβm from East Atlanta Zone Six; it was hard, man, it was real rough. I grew up in the Starter jacket era: theyβd take your Starter jacket, your 8Ball jacket, theyβd 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 youβd get jumped. It was wild when I came up.β
Itβs 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. βI was just a young dude in a single parent house most of my life. I canβt complain that much. I would guess itβs like any black child growing up in a single parent household. There are a lot of people who know how that is. I didnβt 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; sheβs been there through the whole struggle. Thereβs a lot that goes along with that; it made me who I am today.β
A stepfather would enter the picture during Maneβs adolescence, introducing not only a male figure, but also inspiration for Maneβs unusual moniker. βMy father came in, the original Gucci Mane; thatβs what people in the neighborhood called him, and thatβs 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.β Drawing inspiration from a pantheon of rappers before him βBig Daddy Kane, LL Cool J, Ice Cube, the Beastie Boys, N.W.AβMane went on to release Trap House, a lethal brew of his signature sound: βI call my music straight Gucci: going hard and whatever beats you make you for me, if Iβm feeling it, if Iβm rocking with it, Iβm gonna crush it. When you hear me, you hear a lot of pain, a lot of hood; you hear whatβs going on in the inner city in Atlanta.β
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. βI learned to keep better company, watch where I go, and be mindful of my surroundings at all times,β he reveals. βWatch what I say, watch what I do and how I do it, just keep myself out of the wrong crowd.β
βI always stand up man,β he continues. βIβm one of the toughest guys I know. Itβll take a lot more than that to break me down.β Undeterred, Mane was back in the studio, preparing 2006βs 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: βThere was a bidding war going on, and I liked Atlanticβs approach. They made it known that they wanted me, they felt where I was going and that I could grow with them.β
Asylum/Atlantic Records welcomed Gucci Mane in early β07, 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 ββI got them in training; they be in the weight room, pumping iron, doing pushups, shopping at the mall, buying iceββGucci is focused on his magnum opus, Back to the Trap House. βI started working on the album, and by the third song, I was like βThis is going back to the Trap House.β 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.β
βSince I went major, I want everybody to know Iβm still keeping it street, keeping it hood,β Gucci maintains. βIβm trying to take it back to all my fans that I had when I first started my career. And at the same time, Iβm trying to open up my new album to a new fan base. So itβs a mix for everybody coming together, like my first album was.β Gucci has always prided himself on his innate ability, and his refusal to let guest appearances dictate the tone of his records. βI just want people to know Iβm a great songwriter, man,β he asserts. βIβm passionate about what I do, and itβs 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; itβs a God-given gift and I just get paid for it. It come from God, itβs like wondering what makes a bird fly. He made me a poet like the great poets of the past.β
But donβt mistake Gucciβs confidence for self-absorption. The vicissitudes of his career have dictated a longer view. Lyrics aside, heβs less preoccupied with visible means and more so with acting as an emissary from his under-repped block. βIβm not the one to glorify what goes on in the hood,β he insists. βWe have everything there, the whole range from violence to people getting on the bus and going to work. Thereβs a lot more to the hood than just drugs. Itβs a bigger story, thereβs 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. Iβm 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.β
And Gucciβs professional aims have matured as well. While other rappers stress platinum plaques, Gucci hasnβt forgotten the route he took to stardom. βI made a lot of CDs on my own. People fucked with me and supported me, and just made me the man I am today. Thatβs 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 jobβs been done.β
Fortunately for Gucci, he should be prepared to welcome an army of new fans with Back to the Trap House. But longstanding fans shouldnβt fear; theyβll recognize βFreaky Gurl,β 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 Gucciβs 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 βBird Flu,β the albumβs number two single, laced by New-York based Supa Sonics. Elsewhere, firm guest verses from Rich Boy and Pimp C of UGK round out Gucciβs regional flavor, while Bay-area producer Zaytoven (of βIcyβ renown) locks down Gucciβs 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. βIβm best known for controversy but Iβm 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. Iβll be banging them out till I canβt bang no more.β
Win Lose or Draw
Gucci Mane Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
(30, you a motherfuckin' fool, nigga)
Han
Go
These bitch-ass niggas act like they be on their period or somethin'
I don't play with niggas, period, get hit with the drum
Ain't no mystery, my heart black like Black History MonthI show no sympathy, I'll have them people searchin' for months
Cut off his legs, chopper hit it and it knocked off his knees
Cut off his head, cut it off, then bring that shit back to me
Cut off his dreads, heard they did it in the middle of the street
I made him famous, R.I.P., I put that boy on TV
11 Alive, Fox 5, Channel 2, BET
Why would Gucci pay you when he could do it for free?
I'm too rich for broke bitches, I ain't fuckin' for free
I don't need these broad bitches, mane, these hoes need me
Born in Bessemer, Alabama, the worst place in the world
For a Black family to raise a lil' boy and girl
If you ain't talkin' 'bout money, then quit talkin' to me
Cash rules everything around 1017 (Gucci)
Okay, huh, yeah, been through it all
I gotta go hard
Win, lose or draw
I cannot get caught up in opinions and thoughts
I cannot get throwed off, I just got to go off
Trips to the dealership, trips to the vault, uh
Checks in the mail, make it flip, summersault, uh
I gotta stay locked in, I cannot get throwed off
Okay, okay
1017, it's a scary thing
13-17, take over everythingNow you hold weight beyond measuring
White chalk, tape, we murder every scene
Came from the trench, not the trap, though
Real music left, we brought it back, though
Gotta put the streets on our back more
Gotta put the city on the map more
QM and Guwop on attack mode
Ride on you niggas like a RAV4
Niggas talkin' down from the back, though
Tell 'em, "Take a picture, it'll last long"
I'm not no blue collar criminal, so I don't do subliminal (no)
I drop a check and board the jet, on to another M and M (go)
I ain't got no spare time, I ain't on that square time (huh?)
My Richard Millie a milli', really don't use it to tell time (well, damn)
My young hitters sharp, but treat big niggas like they small fries (huh?)
MAC-11 with the chicken nuts and they super-sized
Guwop got a rare mind, people call him Einstein (it's Gucci)
I make money in my spare time, but I don't got no spare dimes (Wop)
Huh, yeah, been through it all
I gotta go hard
Win, lose or draw
I cannot get caught up in opinions and thoughts
I cannot get throwed off, I just got to go off
Trips to the dealership, trips to the vault, uh
Checks in the mail, make it flip, summersault, uh
I gotta stay locked in, I cannot get throwed off
Okay
The lyrics to Gucci Mane's "Win Lose or Draw" delve into his unapologetic and confident persona as he addresses his haters, flexes his wealth, and reflects on his upbringing. Gucci dismisses those who try to undermine him by comparing them to individuals on their period, implying that they are emotional and irrational. He asserts his dominance by stating that he doesn't play games and will retaliate with force, represented by being "hit with the drum." Gucci highlights his lack of sympathy and portrays himself as someone who evades capture and investigation, showing that he operates without fear of consequences.
Further displaying his ruthless nature, Gucci describes violent acts like cutting off limbs and heads, suggesting his involvement in or knowledge of criminal activities. He also claims responsibility for the fame of others, indicating his influence and power within the music industry. Gucci takes pride in being recognized by various media outlets and questions why he would pay for something he can achieve on his own. He expresses his disdain for broke women, emphasizing his wealth and the disparity between him and those who seek his attention.
Transitioning into the chorus, Gucci asserts his resilience and determination to succeed regardless of the outcome. He prioritizes his own goals and ambitions, refusing to be swayed or distracted by the opinions of others. Gucci emphasizes his hustle and ability to make money, mentioning his trips to the dealership and the vault, symbolizing his extravagant lifestyle and financial success. He understands the value of money and its influence, referencing the phrase "cash rules everything around 1017," which is a nod to his record label, 1017 Brick Squad Records.
In the second verse, Gucci highlights the impact he and his label have had on the music industry. He claims that they have revived real music, distinguishing themselves from the "trap" genre that has become prevalent. Gucci takes pride in carrying the weight of the streets and representing his city, indicating a sense of responsibility and loyalty to his roots.
The final verse sees Gucci further establishing his wealth and success. He rejects the notion of being a subtle criminal and boasts about his extravagant lifestyle. Gucci flaunts his luxury watch brand, Richard Millie, suggesting that his wealth is beyond the need to keep track of time. He references his "young hitters" who possess both sharpness and the ability to handle anyone, regardless of their status.
Overall, the lyrics to "Win Lose or Draw" portray Gucci Mane as a confident, unapologetic, and domineering figure. He boasts about his wealth, power, and ability to influence the music industry while reflecting on his upbringing and the challenges he has overcome.
Line by Line Meaning
These bitch-ass niggas act like they be on their period or somethin'
These weak individuals behave irrationally, as if they are experiencing hormonal fluctuations or mood swings similar to those during menstruation.
I don't play with niggas, period, get hit with the drum
I don't engage in games with individuals, and if they persist, they will face the consequences of facing gunfire.
Ain't no mystery, my heart black like Black History Month
There's no enigma here, my heart is filled with darkness and negativity, much like the struggles depicted in Black History Month.
I show no sympathy, I'll have them people searchin' for months
I have no compassion or empathy, and my actions will cause law enforcement to tirelessly investigate for an extended period.
Cut off his legs, chopper hit it and it knocked off his knees
Severed his legs, the automatic weapon struck him, resulting in his knees being violently displaced.
Cut off his head, cut it off, then bring that shit back to me
Decapitated him, severed his head, and you better return it to me.
Cut off his dreads, heard they did it in the middle of the street
Removed his dreadlocks, the act occurred publicly, right in the center of a busy road.
I made him famous, R.I.P., I put that boy on TV
I elevated his status to fame, ironically after his demise, memorializing him, and showcasing him on television.
11 Alive, Fox 5, Channel 2, BET
His exposure reached various media outlets, particularly local news stations and the Black Entertainment Television network.
Why would Gucci pay you when he could do it for free?
Why would I compensate you financially when I can accomplish the same task without incurring any expenses?
I'm too rich for broke bitches, I ain't fuckin' for free
My wealth and prosperity elevate me above women who lack financial stability, and I refuse to engage in sexual activities without monetary compensation.
I don't need these broad bitches, mane, these hoes need me
I have no dependency on these promiscuous women, instead, they rely on me for their own needs and desires.
Born in Bessemer, Alabama, the worst place in the world
Having originated in Bessemer, Alabama, widely acknowledged as one of the most unfavorable locations on Earth.
For a Black family to raise a lil' boy and girl
It is especially challenging for a Black family to raise their children in such an environment.
If you ain't talkin' 'bout money, then quit talkin' to me
If your conversation doesn't revolve around financial matters, then please refrain from engaging in dialogue with me.
Cash rules everything around 1017 (Gucci)
Financial wealth dictates and controls all aspects of life within the 1017 community, led by Gucci.
I gotta go hard
I must exert maximum effort and dedication.
I cannot get caught up in opinions and thoughts
I must avoid getting entangled in the subjective views and contemplations of others.
I cannot get throwed off, I just got to go off
I cannot allow myself to be distracted or derailed, I simply need to take action and succeed.
Trips to the dealership, trips to the vault, uh
Frequent visits to luxury car dealerships, as well as secure locations where valuable possessions are stored.
Checks in the mail, make it flip, summersault, uh
Receiving payments through mailed checks, skillfully multiplying those funds through astute investing or spending.
I gotta stay locked in, I cannot get throwed off
I must remain focused and committed, avoiding any distractions or deviations.
1017, it's a scary thing
The association with 1017 is intimidating and awe-inspiring.
13-17, take over everything
The dominance and control exerted by the group encompassing the ages of thirteen to seventeen is all-encompassing.
Now you hold weight beyond measuring
You now possess significant influence that cannot be quantified precisely.
White chalk, tape, we murder every scene
Symbolizing crime scenes, we effortlessly and ruthlessly eliminate any competition or opposition.
Came from the trench, not the trap, though
Our origin lies in the most difficult and oppressed environments, not merely regular drug dealings.
Real music left, we brought it back, though
Authentic and genuine music was on the decline, but we revitalized and reintroduced it.
Gotta put the streets on our back more
We bear the responsibility of representing the streets and its inhabitants to a greater extent.
Gotta put the city on the map more
We need to increase our efforts in elevating our city's prominence and influence.
QM and Guwop on attack mode
QM (referring to themselves) and Gucci Mane are aggressively proactive and assertive.
Ride on you niggas like a RAV4
We ruthlessly confront and overpower our adversaries, akin to a forceful ride on a RAV4 vehicle.
Niggas talkin' down from the back, though
Individuals are disrespectfully speaking ill of us from a position of insignificance or behind our backs.
Tell 'em, 'Take a picture, it'll last long'
Advise them to capture the moment through photography as their transient negativity holds no lasting impact.
I'm not no blue collar criminal, so I don't do subliminal (no)
I don't engage in covert messaging or subtle references because I am not a low-level criminal laborer.
I drop a check and board the jet, on to another M and M (go)
After issuing a large payment and swiftly boarding a private jet, I proceed to pursue another million and multiply my wealth.
I ain't got no spare time, I ain't on that square time (huh?)
I have no available leisure time, as I avoid engaging in mundane or idle activities (right?).
My Richard Millie a milli', really don't use it to tell time (well, damn)
My Richard Mille watch costs a million dollars, but I primarily value it for its status and opulence, not for its timekeeping functionality (damn).
My young hitters sharp, but treat big niggas like they small fries (huh?)
Although my young assailants are incredibly skilled, they treat influential individuals as insignificant or unimportant targets (right?).
MAC-11 with the chicken nuts and they super-sized
Armed with menacing MAC-11 firearms, the ammunition capacity and destructive power of the weapons are on an excessive scale (super-sized).
Guwop got a rare mind, people call him Einstein (it's Gucci)
Gucci Mane possesses a unique and extraordinary intellect, often compared to the brilliant physicist Albert Einstein (it's Gucci).
I make money in my spare time, but I don't got no spare dimes (Wop)
I generate substantial income during my available free moments, but I don't possess any extra pennies to spare (Wop).
I cannot get throwed off, I just got to go off
I must remain steadfast and focused, unleashing my skills and passion without being swayed or hindered.
Trips to the dealership, trips to the vault, uh
Regular visits to luxury car dealerships and secure locations where valuable assets are stored.
Checks in the mail, make it flip, summersault, uh
Receiving payments through mailed checks and expertly multiplying the funds, achieving impressive financial gains.
I gotta stay locked in, I cannot get throwed off
I must maintain a focused mindset and resist any potential distractions or deviations.
Lyrics Β© Universal Music Publishing Group, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Quentin Miller, Radric Davis, Samuel Gloade
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@guccimane
π₯ΆβοΈπ₯ΆβοΈ
@papalexia
Hi gucci
@TheTWill012
Is a remix coming ??? @OfficialGucciMane
@zani7805
So icy!!!!!π₯π₯π₯π₯
@064harmoney
Sign me broπ΄
@obslim9817
πβοΈ
@404productions8
Gucci got another level of respect from me for having Quentin Miller on a song and actually giving him his credit π―π―π― thats real
@blizzydafool7480
This us their 2nd song
@clud2721
Wtf dude. Quentin Miller hardππππ₯π₯π₯
@Leveezy
π₯π₯ https://youtu.be/OF_-7-XfS1Y