Founded in 1987, Gang Starr built a sizable following in the early 90's, releasing classic albums like Step in the Arena (1991) and Daily Operation (1992). Guru's lyrical style was based on battle rhymes delivered smoothly, modestly, and with sly wit; he typically avoided using overwhelming charisma, focusing instead on his rhyming ability. Over the years he even took on younger rappers, including Jeru the Damaja, as proteges. He is credited, along with DJ Premier, for the executive production of Jeru's debut, The Sun Rises in the East (1994).
In 1993, he released his first solo album, Jazzmatazz, Vol. 1. The album featured collaborations with Donald Byrd, N'Dea Davenport, Dee C. Lee, and Roy Ayers, whilst his second LP, Jazzmatazz, Vol. 2: The New Reality, featured Ramsey Lewis, Branford Marsalis, and Jamiroquai. The Jazzmatazz albums have been met with mixed reviews, Guru continued with Jazzmatazz, Vol. 3: Streetsoul (2000) and Baldhead Slick & Da Click (2001).
Moreover, recent Gang Starr albums have continued to garner Guru critical acclaim. Prominent Boston underground rapper Mr. Lif frequently cites Guru as a major stylistic influence; he appears as a guest with Lif on the Perceptionists' debut album, Black Dialogue (2005).
Besides Gang Starr, his Jazzmatazz and solo albums, Guru collaborated with countless artists since the early 90s. Not only in Hip-Hop, but also with artists from various genres such as pop, electronica/dance, acid jazz, and even brass bands.
His "first proper solo album", in his own words, was Version 7.0: The Street Scriptures (2005), released with the help of producer and new backup MC/producer Solar. The album reached #1 on the college hip-hop charts, but was a failure with both fans and critics. It still managed to sell relatively well for an independent release.
Guru's latest project is the fourth installment in the Jazzmatazz series, entirely produced by Solar. It was released in early June 2007 and received good reviews and comments from fans.
In 2007 Guru was ranked at 45 for the Top 50 MCs of our time: 1987-2007
On February 28th 2010, Guru suffered a severe heart attack and was in a coma. He passed away on April 19, 2010 at the age of 49 after a long battle with cancer.
Theres another artist with the same name:
2. Guru also refers to a Ghanaian hip-hop artist known for his single "LaPaz Toyota" and the song "Akayida" - basis for a azonto dance craze
Rollin' Dolo
Guru Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
That's right, Boston
Yeah, Boston niggas be rollin' dolo from state to stae
It's nothing, we do this
[Chorus]
Still nobody guards I stay sucker free
Rollin' Dolo from state to state
Still drop the hot shit for you to pull out your crate
[Guru]
Yo, jealousy can kill so I test my skill
Any pomp I can romp and stomp at will
Now as I gets my thrill it's like my daily drill
You spill raps and in (?) I've been made to ill
You can't talk the talk, you can't walk the walk
Been dwelling with the muggers and the murderers talk
Your shocked by the way I regulate ya' obliterate ya'
Erase your obsolete weak cheap data
[ED O.G.]
It's this hip-hop art I stay true to, crack brew to
I fuck your girl a lot better than you do
The type of lyrics I spit will never fail you
Battle you online, type a letter forward it then email you
Take you off the track and de-rail you
Get the hell out my face don't want to be near you
Don't want your snippets hate your album or your headshots
It's ED O.G. in the black-fitted Red Sox
Thuggin' the streets but you soft at home
You got skills off the dome?
I'm a off your dome
This is a battlefield, no time for screaming and yelling
You get smacked in the face use your ice for the swelling
Besides the records I'm selling
My momma' raised no felon
On the hunt like Helen
For whack rappers who's jellin'
This is drama not a kitty show
You want to get fucked up
Like the low-budget video
I know a lot of time's passed
The ED O.G. is still here and ya'll still half-ass
[Chorus]
{Ya'll still half ass}
{Ya'll half-ass rappers}
Still nobody guards I stay sucker free
Still sling rhymes hard I stay puffing trees
Rollin' Dolo from state to state
Still drop the hot shit for you to pull out your crate
[Big Shug]
It's the return of the mouth-musher, skull-crusher
Pack myself with two nines and (?)
That nigga all day beating down suckers
Sporting the game making it get more rougher
The face-puncher the hot-cruncher
The have it with gods for the law out-to-luncher
The seven-thirty, know I'm more than a sick man
The streets raised this wild ass nigga from "Murderpan"
The real rapper the pimp-slapper
The put on the socks with your suit and stay dapper
Whoa, the chump-choker the backwood tree smoker
Stash the gats in the sofa it's all over
One life to live and that's that
I keep my lyrics heavily packed and cocked back
I'll smash you right in your fucking face black
I'm the realest nigga what you know about that
I'm a let my skills shine like brand new chrome
And tell them son-niggas you run with that daddy's home
I roll dolo from state to state it feels great
And in two thousand get on the stage and demonstrate
[Chorus]
Still nobody guards I stay sucker free
Still sling rhymes hard I stay puffing trees
Rollin' Dolo from state to state
Still drop the hot shit for you to pull out your crate
[Guru]
No holds barred I'm going all out
I don't think your for real I think your all mouth
So bust one for my dogs locked down
And for my real rap lovers know I got it locked down
Untill your blocked down, punks get beat down
You can't rock a party take a seat you clown
I frown upon scavengers and wannabe's
Commit atrocities upon MC's who think they heart is mean
[Chorus]
Still nobody guards I stay sucker free
Still sling rhymes hard I stay puffing trees
Rollin' Dolo from state to state
Still drop the hot shit for you to pull out your crate
[Krumbsnatcha]
Smokey gray Lexus, diamond necklace
We livin' wreckless and die for these inspectors
The four pounders, cock the name on you out-of-towners
And what, henne' filled cups peep the diamond cut
Ice, paradise, living in the thug life
Married to the game fuck a lame diggin' out your wife
Loving all these block wars do shit that's uncalled for
Make money in your spot get it locked, shoot down four
For all your ghetto revenues
Spraying through any avenue
Running I'll be grabbing you
Hog-tied and smacking you
With heaters on purpose
Hold you hostage like you was Turkish
And your pussy ass elevated gut it down your worthless
These thoughts is vivid and we talk if you live it
Rappers brag about a town but don't get respect in it
Ain't a damn shame, whats thats man's name
That got a flame to his nut
Clearing out his spot with a rusted hook
Trust me it's not this entertainment
Ask the judges that face me on the arrangement
Plus I came with, hundreds of niggas that think the same
The plastic hotter than acid to melt the brain
You know the rest man
The song "Rollin' Dolo" by Guru featuring Big Shug, Ed O.G., and Krumbsnatcha is a powerful anthem of rejection against pretenders, boasting about their grit, and describing their rap skills over a playful beat. The song begins with a chant "that's right, Boston," which sets the stage for the three prominent Boston rappers to show off their lyrical ability. In the chorus, Guru declares that he does not need anyone to watch over him and he can move from place to place freely. He also emphasizes his capability to deliver fantastic music that his fans can use against their competitors. Guru's rap is confident, delving into his expertise regarding what it means to make it in the game. He stresses that jealousy can kill while challenging any challenger foolish enough to contest him.
Ed O.G.'s verses convey his exceptional rapping skills as he does not shy away from throwing digs to his competitors. His lyrics showcase his unique style, which he refers to as hip-hop art, staying honest to it, spitting fire that never fails, surprising those who dare to challenge him online. He makes sure to mention his love for the Boston 'Red Sox' baseball team. Big Shug's lyrics are violent, painting a picture of a rapper with guns cocked and ready to do what it takes to win. His bars depict someone who values loyalty to his home and friends above all else while warning putative foes to stay out of his way. Krumbsnatcha raps last, concluding the song with his unique style, violent yet compelling. His lyrics outline his love for flashy things, such as luxury cars and diamond necklaces. He warns anyone who dares to cross him of the severe consequence they will face.
Line by Line Meaning
That's right, Boston
Acknowledging that the song is from Boston
Yeah, Boston niggas be rollin' dolo from state to state
Boston individuals go solo and travel alone across different states
It's nothing, we do this
They find it effortless and natural to do so
Still nobody guards I stay sucker free
The artist remains unaffected by negativity and avoids fake people
Still sling rhymes hard I stay puffing trees
They continue to rap fiercely while enjoying marijuana
Rollin' Dolo from state to state
Traveling alone without companionship across different states
Still drop the hot shit for you to pull out your crate
Continually releasing great music for fans to enjoy
Yo, jealousy can kill so I test my skill
Jealousy has destructive power, motivating the artist to showcase their talent
Any pomp I can romp and stomp at will
They can confidently defeat any arrogant individual
Now as I gets my thrill it's like my daily drill
Finding excitement in their daily routine of entertaining through rap
You spill raps and in (?) I've been made to ill
When they hear weak rap performances, it makes them feel unwell
You can't talk the talk, you can't walk the walk
If someone can't back up their words with actions, they have no credibility
Been dwelling with the muggers and the murderers talk
They have been associating with dangerous individuals who speak of violence
Your shocked by the way I regulate ya' obliterate ya'
People are amazed by their ability to control and destroy their opponents
Erase your obsolete weak cheap data
Removing outdated, weak, and low-quality information
It's this hip-hop art I stay true to, crack brew to
They remain loyal to the art of hip-hop, enjoying it like a fine drink
I fuck your girl a lot better than you do
They claim to have better sexual encounters with someone's partner
The type of lyrics I spit will never fail you
Their lyrics are always reliable and won't disappoint
Battle you online, type a letter forward it then email you
They challenge others in online rap battles, even sending insults via email
Take you off the track and de-rail you
They will remove their opponents from the competition and derail their progress
Get the hell out my face don't want to be near you
They want their opponents to stay away and not be in their presence
Don't want your snippets hate your album or your headshots
They dislike teaser clips, dislike the opponent's album, and dislike their promotional photos
Thuggin' the streets but you soft at home
The person behaves tough in the streets but is weak at home
You got skills off the dome?
They question someone's improvisational rap skills
I'm a off your dome
They claim they will defeat their opponent in an improvisational rap battle
This is a battlefield, no time for screaming and yelling
They perceive the rap scene as a battlefield, not a place for unnecessary noise
You get smacked in the face use your ice for the swelling
If they are hit, they suggest their opponent should use their jewelry to reduce the swelling
Besides the records I'm selling
Apart from selling records, indicating there is more to their art
My momma' raised no felon
Their mother didn't raise them to be criminals
On the hunt like Helen
They are relentlessly searching for weak rappers to defeat
For whack rappers who's jellin'
They are targeting untalented rappers who are jealous of their success
This is drama not a kitty show
They emphasize that rap battles are serious, not a lighthearted performance
You want to get fucked up
They challenge their opponent to face the consequences of their actions
Like the low-budget video
Similar to a poorly made video, they will thoroughly damage their reputation
I know a lot of time's passed
Acknowledging that time has progressed
The ED O.G. is still here and ya'll still half-ass
Despite time passing, the artist is still present, while others remain mediocre
It's the return of the mouth-musher, skull-crusher
They are making a fierce comeback, overpowering their opponents
Pack myself with two nines and (?)
They arm themselves with two guns and something unknown
That nigga all day beating down suckers
Throughout the day, they continuously defeat weaker opponents
Sporting the game making it get more rougher
They intensify the rap game, making it more challenging
The face-puncher the hot-cruncher
They are known for delivering powerful punches, both physically and lyrically
The have it with gods for the law out-to-luncher
They defy authority, considering themselves superior to the police
The seven-thirty, know I'm more than a sick man
They possess superior skills and abilities, exceeding expectations
The streets raised this wild ass nigga from 'Murderpan'
They were raised in a neighborhood known for violence, contributing to their wild nature
The real rapper the pimp-slapper
They are an authentic rapper who defeats those disrespecting women
The put on the socks with your suit and stay dapper
They dress stylishly, wearing formal attire with confidence
Whoa, the chump-choker the backwood tree smoker
They are known for attacking weak individuals and smoking marijuana
Stash the gats in the sofa it's all over
They hide firearms in the couch, signaling the end for their opponents
One life to live and that's that
Emphasizing the importance of making the most of one's life
I keep my lyrics heavily packed and cocked back
Their lyrics are filled with deep meaning and always ready to be delivered
I'll smash you right in your fucking face black
They threaten to physically harm their opponent by punching them in the face
I'm the realest nigga what you know about that
Asserting their authenticity, challenging others to match their level
I'm a let my skills shine like brand new chrome
They will showcase their talent with the same gleam as a newly polished chrome material
And tell them son-niggas you run with that daddy's home
Addressing their opponent's crew, asserting that their presence dominates the rap game
No holds barred I'm going all out
They have no restrictions and will give their all in their performance
I don't think your for real I think your all mouth
They doubt the authenticity of their opponent, suggesting they only talk big
So bust one for my dogs locked down
They dedicate a song to their imprisoned friends
And for my real rap lovers know I got it locked down
True fans of rap acknowledge the artist's dominance and control over the genre
Untill your blocked down, punks get beat down
They will continue to defeat opponents until they are completely shattered
You can't rock a party take a seat you clown
They ridicule those who are unable to energize and entertain a crowd
I frown upon scavengers and wannabe's
They disapprove of those who scavenge for success and imitate others
Commit atrocities upon MC's who think they heart is mean
They challenge and overpower rappers who falsely believe they are tough
Smokey gray Lexus, diamond necklace
Describing lavish possessions, like a gray car and expensive jewelry
We livin' wreckless and die for these inspectors
They live a reckless lifestyle, willing to risk their lives for the approval of others
The four pounders, cock the name on you out-of-towners
They carry guns and intimidate those unfamiliar with their neighborhood
And what, henne' filled cups peep the diamond cut
Drinking Hennessy while appreciating the quality of their diamond jewelry
Ice, paradise, living in the thug life
Enjoying the luxuries of life while residing in a dangerous lifestyle
Married to the game fuck a lame diggin' out your wife
Devoted to the rap game, disrespecting weak individuals and engaging with their partners
Loving all these block wars do shit that's uncalled for
Enjoying conflicts within the neighborhood, engaging in unnecessary actions
Make money in your spot get it locked, shoot down four
Earning money in their territory while intimidating and defeating others
For all your ghetto revenues
In pursuit of financial gain in a low-income community
Spraying through any avenue
Using violence to dominate any area they choose
Running I'll be grabbing you
They will catch and hold onto those who try to escape
Hog-tied and smacking you
Restraining and physically striking their opponents
With heaters on purpose
Using firearms intentionally and with a specific goal in mind
Hold you hostage like you was Turkish
Keeping someone captive as if they were from Turkey
And your pussy ass elevated gut it down your worthless
Demolishing their opponents, making them feel insignificant and worthless
These thoughts is vivid and we talk if you live it
Their thoughts and experiences are vivid, and they only converse with those who understand
Rappers brag about a town but don't get respect in it
They criticize rappers who boast about their hometown but lack respect from the community
Ain't a damn shame, whats that man's name
Expressing frustration and questioning the identity of someone behaving shamefully
That got a flame to his nut
Referring to a person who plays with danger and could potentially harm themselves
Clearing out his spot with a rusted hook
Taking over someone's territory using old and unreliable methods
Trust me it's not this entertainment
Assuring others that what they do is not merely for entertainment, but for real
Ask the judges that face me on the arrangement
They challenge the judges who evaluate and compete against them
Plus I came with, hundreds of niggas that think the same
They are supported by a large group who share their perspective and goals
The plastic hotter than acid to melt the brain
Their lyrics are so intense and powerful, they can mentally destroy their opponents
You know the rest man
The listener is expected to understand and comprehend the rest of the narrative
Contributed by Charlie W. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Anthony Mcmillan
For each album that I overlooked, like this one as well I regret not buying it in the first place 🤣! When I did I enjoyed it from start to finish. Some of the features on this album I never heard of. But this song is one of my favorites because they're rapping reckless. In person I met Ed O with my sister back in the day and I saw Krumbsnatcha in person twice. Shug I saw in the distance at the grocery store I once worked at in 2017 with Singapore Kane. Saw everyone but Guru. I'll see him in the afterlife. If Goo was to be still living in 2021 he would've been 60. He loves hip hop so much he has it tattooed on his neck. On of the 🐐's
TheSstretch68
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE LEGENDARY GURU!!!
Derrick
I roll dolo from state to state - Ike Love
Vandalio
R.I.P Guru 🔥
nicholas russell
damn this is a slept on as FUCK track/album
Championz11
nicholas russell. Yeah this album is mad hard to find too. Im guessing can only get it on disc.
GodVibe Records
The gods super fire
speeddemon002
hell yea SICK BALDHEAD SLICK R.I.P. UR STILL HERE THOUGH INSPIRED ME THE GHOST CHECK ME OUT AT SPEEDDEMON002 ALWAYS JAMIN TO REAL TALK
Phillip Watts, Jr.
Damn...who pissed Edo G off?
PTLpdb
Big up to Boston