Promises
II Tru Lyrics


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(Chorus)
Nothin' but the best females caught in the midst of promises
But a nigga can't fade me
AJay got my back, (On the real, though)
And kept it tightly

[Jhaz]
Promises on real, I done heard so many say
"II Tru, we want you to sign this rap deal." (Straight up)
Still smilin'-faced foes, theys can't give me no ends though
Impress 'em hoes, then let my click come down in Benzos
I still pity for those that are taked
These here the dopest females
And in this rap game, we dominate
See, in other cities, behind closed doors
They smile in your face, and call you hoes
Those of you know who you are
Playa hatin' bustas, purebred, so I guess you played your part
From start to end, AJay click peeped your game
Believe your weed ain't enough to buy some trues, man
Reminiscin' back past to the day when we was cool
But you underestimated mentals of a real-ass true
Empty promises'll get you nowhere
I'm on that other level
To my dying day, AJay and II Tru, forever

(Chorus)

Brina:
Nothin' but the best females caught in the midst of promises
Tryin' to get on in this rap game
But the fools ain't about their business
What is this, dog?
You've been runnin' your grill on the real
Talkin' 'bout what you gon' do for my crew
But yet and still, we gots no deal
I feel ya, and it's true, comin' like a playa to ya
Straight from the heart, dog
No beatin' 'round the bush. I'm about my paper
Mistake your con, see we put a little trust up front
You perpin' like it's on, we about to roll
Royalties gon' bring some bucks, but what?
What's the hold up?
Yeah, AJay's ready to rumble
Archdog and II Tru, since 92
So we maintain humble to your game
But the plan made from the get-go done got changed
Want to split AJay from II Tru, instead of leavin' things the same
What a shame, many promises made, came through with a contract
Read in between the lines, put you in a bind, sista really can't sign that
Bet all that bull you talkin', AJay comin' in the game, regardless
Broken promises said to a true got us comin' up heartless

(Chorus)

[Brina]
Tell me, am I wrong or what?
Didn't you say some money
Up front for us trues to sign the dotted-line?
Go in debt, then blow you up in this rap game
It was all good to a playa, like I let your hand show
Runnin' off at the flapper, then got you in the midst of a lingo
Even yet, though, you was on a mission with visions of knockin' booty
Excuse me, II Tru ain't comin' in
(We ain't even goin' down like that) on a ?
Trues with lyrics for days
It's no mistake, would've got your pay back
Right off the dream of real figures
If we rolled on the same page, dog
Was your intentions to break up this bond, fool?
Smoke weed with II Tru
Take advantage of a sister, then be through?
Must check you, you can go on' and playa hate
AJay can handle this
It's a fool's move to try to break up this tight click

[Jhaz]
Look at this fool, thinkin' he spittin' game
But if I might confess: impressed not
Nonetheless, your mouth be shoutin', when compared to the best
Promises, many times I done heard that "your word is your honor,"
Wastin' time and money to impress some trues
When a real fool wouldn't even bother
No holler for ya, no love either
Shyste one on the creep, who lick from so far back I was solo
Just makin' debut release (pushin' Darkside)
In the streets, spreadin' dirt
Tryin' to hurt two trues 'cause they won't convert
Recognize, dog - AJay, baby, click thick, come to put in work
We backdoor for y'all foes on the down low, risin'
Open your eyes and you will soon realize it's (You ain't know?)
AJay, II Tru forever - promises made, kept true, bein' real with it
And like those of you who chose to come brand new
We cruise and it ain't no need to mention names
I'm a end mines
It's just so many promises in this rap game
Understand?





(Chorus)

Overall Meaning

The song "Promises" by II Tru is about the disappointments and broken promises in the rap industry. The lyrics express the frustration of the female rap group with false promises from those who claimed they could help them achieve success, leading them to question the intentions of those they come across. Jhaz and Brina call out the people who tried to lure them into signing a rap deal with empty promises, claiming that they are dominating the game themselves with the support of their friend AJay. The lyrics of the song suggest that being true to oneself and supporting a loyal group of friends is more important than making deals with deceitful individuals.


One interesting fact about "Promises" is that it was released in 1997 as the lead single from II Tru's self-titled debut album. The song received positive reviews from music critics who praised the skilled rapping, strong female empowerment message, and catchy beat. Another interesting fact about the song is that it was produced by Ant Banks, a well-known hip-hop producer who has worked with many popular artists in the industry. The song's chorus uses samples from Sly, Slick, & Wicked's 1972 song "Sho' Nuff," adding a nostalgic touch to the track.


"Promises" was featured on the soundtrack of the 1997 film "Dangerous Ground," which starred Ice Cube and Elizabeth Hurley. The song has been categorized as "gangsta rap," a subgenre of hip-hop that depicts urban violence, drugs, and misogyny. However, II Tru's version of gangsta rap emphasizes female empowerment and self-respect. "Promises" was one of the few hit songs from II Tru's debut album, which has largely been forgotten in the years since its release.


Another interesting fact about the song is that it features the impressive rapping skills of the II Tru members, who deliver their verses with ferocity and confidence. Jhaz and Brina's powerful lyrics and distinct flow helped them stand out in the male-dominated world of hip-hop. The song's music video features the group performing on a stage, dressed in matching outfits and surrounded by dancers, emphasizing their sisterhood and solidarity.


The chords for "Promises" are not known, as the song is rooted in hip-hop and does not rely heavily on instrumental accompaniment. Instead, the focus is on the vocal delivery and the rhythm of the lyrics. The song's minimalist beat and sparse instrumentals create a sense of urgency and intensity, adding to the overall impact of the message being conveyed.


In conclusion, "Promises" by II Tru is a powerful and thought-provoking song that addresses the challenges and disappointments faced by female rap artists in the music industry. The lyrics critique the false promises and lack of support that many female rappers face, while also celebrating the strength and perseverance of the II Tru members. Through their powerful rapping and inspiring message, II Tru has left a lasting impact on the world of hip-hop.


Line by Line Meaning

Nothin' but the best females caught in the midst of promises
There are only top-tier women who are involved in making commitments


But a nigga can't fade me
I cannot be defeated or undermined


AJay got my back, (On the real, though)
I have the support of AJay, who is genuinely loyal


And kept it tightly
He has remained loyal and trustworthy


Promises on real, I done heard so many say
I have heard countless people making genuine promises


"II Tru, we want you to sign this rap deal." (Straight up)
They have directly expressed their desire for II Tru to sign a rap deal


Still smilin'-faced foes, theys can't give me no ends though
Despite their deceitful smiles, my enemies cannot provide me with any benefits


Impress 'em hoes, then let my click come down in Benzos
I strive to amaze and charm women, then roll up with my crew in luxurious Benzos


I still pity for those that are taked
I feel sorry for those who have been deceived


These here the dopest females
These women are the most exceptional and talented


And in this rap game, we dominate
We have a complete control and influence in the rap game


See, in other cities, behind closed doors
In other cities, people conceal their true intentions


They smile in your face, and call you hoes
They pretend to be friendly and respectful, but secretly demean and label you as promiscuous women


Those of you know who you are
The individuals I'm referring to are well-aware of their actions


Playa hatin' bustas, purebred, so I guess you played your part
These individuals who envy and undermine others are true to their nature, so I suppose they have fulfilled their role


From start to end, AJay click peeped your game
From the beginning to the end, AJay's crew has observed and understood your true intentions


Believe your weed ain't enough to buy some trues, man
Your marijuana is not sufficient to gain the loyalty and trust of II Tru's members


Reminiscin' back past to the day when we was cool
Reflecting on the time in the past when we had a good relationship


But you underestimated mentals of a real-ass true
However, you failed to comprehend the mindset of a truly genuine person


Empty promises'll get you nowhere
Hollow assurances will not lead you to any success


I'm on that other level
I have ascended to a higher level of understanding


To my dying day, AJay and II Tru, forever
Until the day of my death, AJay, and II Tru will stay united forever


Nothin' but the best females caught in the midst of promises
Only the most exceptional women are involved in making commitments


Tryin' to get on in this rap game
They are attempting to succeed in the rap industry


But the fools ain't about their business
However, the incompetent individuals are not serious about their work


What is this, dog?
What is the reason behind this, my friend?


You've been runnin' your grill on the real
You have been talking truthfully


Talkin' 'bout what you gon' do for my crew
Claiming that you will support my team


But yet and still, we gots no deal
However, we still do not have a signed agreement


I feel ya, and it's true, comin' like a playa to ya
I understand your perspective, and it is accurate, resembling that of a player


Straight from the heart, dog
Honestly speaking, my friend


No beatin' 'round the bush. I'm about my paper
I won't waste time and will directly address my financial interests


Mistake your con, see we put a little trust up front
Do not deceive us, as we initially placed a small amount of trust in you


You perpin' like it's on, we about to roll
You pretend like things are going well, but we are ready to take action


Royalties gon' bring some bucks, but what?
Earnings from royalties will provide money, but what's the point?


What's the hold up?
Why is there a delay or obstacle?


Yeah, AJay's ready to rumble
Yes, AJay is prepared for a confrontation


Archdog and II Tru, since 92
Archdog and II Tru have been together since 1992


So we maintain humble to your game
We continue to be modest in response to your actions


But the plan made from the get-go done got changed
However, the initial plan has been altered


Want to split AJay from II Tru, instead of leavin' things the same
You desire to separate AJay from II Tru, rather than maintaining the existing unity


What a shame, many promises made, came through with a contract
It is a pity that numerous promises were made, but only a contract was delivered


Read in between the lines, put you in a bind, sista really can't sign that
You must analyze the hidden meaning of the contract since it puts me in a difficult position, I cannot sign it


Bet all that bull you talkin', AJay comin' in the game, regardless
I wager that all the nonsense you are speaking will not stop AJay from entering the game


Broken promises said to a true got us comin' up heartless
When genuine individuals like us face broken promises, it makes us cold-hearted


Tell me, am I wrong or what?
Please confirm if my perception is incorrect


Didn't you say some money
Didn't you promise a certain amount of money


Up front for us trues to sign the dotted-line?
As an upfront payment for II Tru to sign the contract?


Go in debt, then blow you up in this rap game
Entering into a financial obligation and then achieving great success in the rap industry


It was all good to a playa, like I let your hand show
Initially, it seemed promising, like I revealed my true intentions


Runnin' off at the flapper, then got you in the midst of a lingo
Speaking excessively, then putting you in a difficult situation


Even yet, though, you was on a mission with visions of knockin' booty
However, you had ulterior motives, aiming to exploit the situation


Excuse me, II Tru ain't comin' in
I apologize, but II Tru will not participate in that


(We ain't even goin' down like that) on a ?
We are not willing to engage in such behavior


Trues with lyrics for days
II Tru has an abundance of lyrics


It's no mistake, would've got your pay back
It is not a coincidence, as we would have obtained our deserved payment


Right off the dream of real figures
From the beginning, we had aspirations of genuine success


If we rolled on the same page, dog
If we had mutual understanding and agreement, my friend


Was your intentions to break up this bond, fool?
Did you intend to dismantle this strong connection, you foolish person?


Smoke weed with II Tru
Engage in recreational marijuana consumption with II Tru


Take advantage of a sister, then be through?
Exploit a woman and then end the relationship?


Must check you, you can go on' and playa hate
I need to confront and confront your behavior of expressing envy and disdain


AJay can handle this
AJay is capable of dealing with this situation


It's a fool's move to try to break up this tight click
Attempting to dismantle this close-knit group is a foolish decision


Look at this fool, thinkin' he spittin' game
Observe this foolish individual, believing he is impressing others with his words


But if I might confess: impressed not
However, I must admit that I am not impressed


Nonetheless, your mouth be shoutin', when compared to the best
Regardless, you continue to boast, but your skills pale in comparison to the top performers


Promises, many times I done heard that "your word is your honor,"
I have heard numerous promises where people claim that their word is their utmost integrity


Wastin' time and money to impress some trues
Wasting valuable resources to try and impress genuine individuals


When a real fool wouldn't even bother
A truly foolish person wouldn't even attempt to do so


No holler for ya, no love either
I won't give you any attention or affection


Shyste one on the creep, who lick from so far back I was solo
A shady individual operates in secret, benefiting from actions I took long ago when I was alone


Just makin' debut release (pushin' Darkside)
I was just starting my career by releasing my first album (promoting Darkside)


In the streets, spreadin' dirt
In the neighborhood, I am spreading news and gossip


Tryin' to hurt two trues 'cause they won't convert
Attempting to harm two genuine individuals because they refuse to change their principles


Recognize, dog - AJay, baby, click thick, come to put in work
Understand this, my friend - AJay and the crew are tightly bonded and fully committed to making progress


We backdoor for y'all foes on the down low, risin'
We are covertly plotting against our enemies while quietly advancing and gaining influence


Open your eyes and you will soon realize it's (You ain't know?)
If you become more aware, you will eventually understand the reality of the situation (Didn't you already know this?)


AJay, II Tru forever - promises made, kept true, bein' real with it
AJay and II Tru will always be together - we fulfill our promises, remain true to ourselves, and keep it real


And like those of you who chose to come brand new
Similar to those who decided to enter this world with a new identity


We cruise and it ain't no need to mention names
We continue to progress without the necessity of naming specific individuals


I'm a end mines
I am going to conclude my part


It's just so many promises in this rap game
There are an abundance of commitments made within the rap industry


Understand?
Do you comprehend?




Lyrics Β© BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: DOLORES MARY O'RIORDAN

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

[WICKED.382]🎡🎢

Back to let ya know that i think MoThugs Family Scriptures vol.1 was the Best of all. Because of Ghetto Bluez, No Pretender, Welcome to my World, the Poetic Hustlaz and GYS.

✊❀✊❀✊❀✊

montrese

πŸ˜‡

BlvckFire TrvpFire

This beat always been sick

Patrick Burns

I've been looking for this for over 20yrs....all I could remember was the beat, the color of the album, and they said " nothing but the best females" man this song go so hard

C.B

I remember this I had the whole album. loved it ✊mo thug baby

Albert Jackson

Oh Bone one of my favorite I had this album when it first came out it's to good to hear this again

[WICKED.382]🎡🎢

2018/Germany....ordered the Album a few days ago 😍
EPIC!

Mannie Morales

Where did you order it?

Dee Jay

Yeah, this album is a low key hidden gem hip hop later 90s classic...

Dee Jay

Yo, these two were suppose to blow up :( even today i would listen to them over some meg the stallion, nicki minaj, cardi b, etc....smh...

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