J. Stalin claims in an interview that he was born into poverty and earned money as a child by selling candy bars on the BART trains. Around age 13, he began recording and selling rap music. A member of Oakland's hyphy culture, he is described by a local magazine as a "rapper and sideshow participant".
Although young and boyish-looking, J. Stalin adopted a tough rapper persona. He references Joseph Stalin in his stage name because they shared the same initials, and "he was short like me, but he was always smashin' on everybody." In a recent interview he remarked about his home and lifestyle, "This is West Oakland, man. This is the bottoms right here." He went on to say that the crime rate in his neighborhood was so high, the city had remodeled the housing units in his housing project to remove the back doors so that criminals could not escape from home raids by the police.
J. Stalin's first widely released performances arose when a DJ Daryl, a local recording studio owner, placed him on a track he was recording. A colleague of Daryl's, Richie Rich, was impressed enough to put J. Stalin on three tracks in his 2002 album Nixon Pryor Roundtree album and two more as a member of Rich's group, the Replacement Killers. He later recorded and performed with artists such as G-Stack, Beeda Weeda of the Hieroglyphics collective, Keak Da Sneak and San Quinn, E-40, The Luniz, The Team, The Frontline, Mob Figaz, Yukmouth, Numskull, Shock G, and others. As of 2006 he had released roughly 7 mixtapes and had four releases scheduled for 2007.[1] Mekanix and Zoo Entertainment released "On Behalf of the Streets" in early May 2007. J. Stalin is the President of Town Thizzness, and the owner of Livewire Records. He is also the front man in his group, Livewire Da Gang. The Livewire Gang consists of many artists from various neighborhoods in North, East, and West Oakland. Some of these artists include, Shady Nate, Jay Jonah, Philthy Rich, Stevie Joe, Lil Rue, Lil Blood, Ruben Stunner, R.O.B., Ronald Mack, Kiwi, HD, Major D, and Mayback.
Draft
J. Stalin Lyrics
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Brush you teeth put on your pants it’s your time right member I got you through them hard times in your life well look like the hard work paying now gone show the world that you the dream cause they been dozing off you wasn’t first kid I worked with won’t be the last but that hunger in your heart you different from the rest you was like Pete in hunger games just striving for survival chasing your dreams swore you’ll get to the league
(Hook) Dunking on the MVP and I believed in you
You hot your sweat hit the ground
So I feel heat with you
Cause you dribble me right after
Crossover in and out him
Go to the arc and release I drill the hoop after
Say yea there go that dagger now you walking with a swagger
We hit him with that dagger now you walking with a swagger (2x)
(Verse) Now let’s take them back to 5th grade hooping back in the days wearing them Nike socks with your nick name engraved on the back of the warm up trying to dunk in the warm up only could touch the net but adrenaline rush make you jump up and fly like MJ make you shoot like you KD must admit some of us only left the city with team that was the only escape seemed like the way out we just want to be great so why yall trying to hold us down I know you member that game when you shot me in the air 3 seconds up on the clock the girl in the crowd so shocked cause you never attempted 3’s forget it you need these I’m in the air 2 seconds on the clock you praying like lord let me make this shot but that hunger in your heart was different from the rest 1 second on the clock I’m falling out the air you made that 3 they swore you wasn’t going to make that 3 they swore we wouldn’t make the league
(Hook) Dunking on the MVP and I believed in you
You hot your sweat hit the ground
So I feel heat with you
Cause you dribble me right after
Crossover in and out him
Go to the arc and release
I drill the hoop after
Say yea there go that dagger now you walking with a swagger
We hit him with that dagger now you walking with a swagger (2x)
(Verse) they said you couldn’t well I beg the differ I watched you when you was little I seen that hunger in you you had potential knew that you’ll be someone great they see that smile on your face but they don’t know your pain I witnessed it all them nights sitting up on the floor member when yall lit them candle cause they turned the power off or that time when your momma broke down in tears you just held it in you ain’t want pity from your friends well your friends would soon become your enemies cause you choose to chase your dreams and you wasn’t content in these streets if you ask me they wasn’t in your best interest you got greatness in you when you going to embrace don’t be so complicated with the life you living when you going to take it you go to take they not going to give it to you why you waiting look in they faces they shameless they didn’t believe you now you made it Ceez been told you you destined for greatness
(Hook) Dunking on the MVP and I believed in you
You hot your sweat hit the ground
So I feel heat with you
Cause you dribble me right after
Crossover in and out him
Go to the arc and release
I drill the hoop after
Say yea there go that dagger now you walking with a swagger
We hit him with that dagger now you walking with a swagger (2x)
(Verse) Told you you would never be big as Cole Kendrick Lamar Hov Wale that boy Big Sean you got be complicated content with the life you living you will never make it just face it the rhymes you spitting they to basic to basic aye the rhymes you spitting they to basic basic just face it you will never make it
What good is being the profit if you too afraid to show it
These lyrics are a reflection on the journey of a basketball player who has overcome obstacles and adversity to achieve greatness. The song starts with a message of encouragement and motivation, reminding the listener to seize the opportunity ("Brush your teeth, put on your pants, it's your time right now"). The lyrics describe how the hard work and dedication of the player has paid off, and now it's time to show the world their talent and potential.
The hook emphasizes the belief in the player's abilities and their intense commitment to the game. The reference to sweating and feeling the heat together signifies the emotional and physical investment in the sport. The lyrics depict the player's skills in dribbling, crossovers, and shooting, symbolizing their ability to conquer challenges on the court. The use of the word "dagger" suggests a powerful and decisive move, while the newfound confidence is represented by the swagger and confidence in their stride.
In the following verses, the lyrics take us back to the player's humble beginnings in fifth grade, where they started honing their basketball skills. It highlights the adversity faced growing up, such as lack of resources, but also the determination to succeed. The lyrics touch on the support received from friends and the internal struggle the player faced, torn between the familiar streets and pursuing their dreams. Despite doubters and naysayers, the lyrics emphasize the player's unwavering belief in their own potential and the adversity they overcame.
The last verse delves into the challenges faced by the player and their inner struggle to embrace their destiny. The lyrics describe the hardships faced, such as power outages and family difficulties, which only fueled the player's determination to succeed. The lyrics emphasize the uniqueness and greatness within the player, encouraging them not to settle for a mediocre life and to take control of their destiny. The mention of other successful artists in the rap industry adds a layer of comparison and implies that the player's potential might be just as significant.
Overall, these lyrics celebrate the journey of a basketball player who has defied odds and embraced their destiny, encouraging others to do the same and not be afraid to show their true potential. The message conveys resilience, self-belief, and embracing one's own greatness, despite the challenges faced along the way.
Line by Line Meaning
(You know what time it is bro Draft Day Wake Up)
It's an exciting moment, signaling readiness for a significant opportunity ahead.
Brush you teeth put on your pants it’s your time right
Prepare yourself; this is your moment to shine and showcase your abilities.
member I got you through them hard times in your life
Remember the support I provided during your difficult times, guiding you.
well look like the hard work paying now gone show the world that you the dream
The effort you put in is beginning to yield results; it's time to demonstrate your aspirations.
cause they been dozing off you wasn’t first kid I worked with won’t be the last
People have underestimated you; you're not the only person I've mentored, and there will be more.
but that hunger in your heart you different from the rest
Your ambition and drive set you apart from others; they are distinctive qualities.
you was like Pete in hunger games just striving for survival chasing your dreams
You're reminiscent of a character who fights fiercely for survival and pursues his goals relentlessly.
swore you’ll get to the league
You committed yourself to achieving your dream of reaching a professional level.
(Hook) Dunking on the MVP and I believed in you
Achieving greatness by outperforming the best; I had faith in your abilities.
You hot your sweat hit the ground
Your intense effort is palpable; your exertion is evident in your performance.
So I feel heat with you
I share in your intensity during this journey; your struggles resonate with me.
Cause you dribble me right after
Your skillful moves reflect how we navigate challenges together.
Crossover in and out him
You're adept at overcoming obstacles and maneuvering past challenges smoothly.
Go to the arc and release
Position yourself for success and take your shot at achieving your dreams.
I drill the hoop after
I succeed in my goals following your example; we both achieve results.
Say yea there go that dagger now you walking with a swagger
You have now struck decisively, and your confidence is undeniable.
We hit him with that dagger now you walking with a swagger (2x)
Together, we achieved a significant victory, and you carry yourself with newfound confidence.
(Verse) Now let’s take them back to 5th grade hooping back in the days
Let's reminisce about humble beginnings and early experiences in basketball.
wearing them Nike socks with your nick name engraved on the back
Recalling the pride and personalization in your childhood sports gear.
trying to dunk in the warm up only could touch the net
During practice, you were aspiring to achieve greatness, even if your skills were still developing.
but adrenaline rush make you jump up and fly like MJ
The excitement drives you to give your best effort, akin to legendary players.
make you shoot like you KD
You emulate the skills of phenomenal players, showcasing your ambition.
must admit some of us only left the city with team that was the only escape
For many, participating in sports was their only opportunity to break free from their circumstances.
seemed like the way out we just want to be great
Excellence was the common goal and path to a better life for us.
so why yall trying to hold us down
Why are others attempting to stifle our ambitions and dreams?
I know you member that game when you shot me in the air 3 seconds up on the clock
Recall that critical moment in a game where you took a daring shot under pressure.
the girl in the crowd so shocked cause you never attempted 3’s
People were surprised by your unexpected display of skill, defying their expectations.
forget it you need these I’m in the air 2 seconds on the clock
Focus on what matters; it’s about seizing opportunities before they disappear.
you praying like lord let me make this shot
In moments of high stakes, you find solace and strength in hope and belief.
but that hunger in your heart was different from the rest
Your unique resilience and determination set you apart from the crowd.
1 second on the clock I’m falling out the air you made that 3
In the final moment, with everything on the line, you executed flawlessly.
they swore you wasn’t going to make that 3 they swore we wouldn’t make the league
People doubted your capabilities and predicted you wouldn't achieve your dreams.
(Hook) Dunking on the MVP and I believed in you
Overcoming the best players and showcasing the faith I had in your abilities.
You hot your sweat hit the ground
Your hard work and passion are visible in the intensity of your performance.
So I feel heat with you
Your energy and struggles are shared between us, highlighting the bond we share.
Cause you dribble me right after
Your movements reflect our journey together as we face challenges head-on.
Crossover in and out him
Navigating obstacles and evading distractions gracefully.
Go to the arc and release
Position yourself strategically to capitalize on opportunities.
I drill the hoop after
Following your lead, I achieve success as well.
Say yea there go that dagger now you walking with a swagger
Your decisive actions have resulted in success, and you exude confidence.
We hit him with that dagger now you walking with a swagger (2x)
Together, we've overcome hurdles, resulting in newfound confidence in our capabilities.
(Verse) they said you couldn’t well I beg the differ
People doubted your potential, but I strongly believe otherwise.
I watched you when you was little I seen that hunger in you
I've witnessed your growth and the passion you've always had since childhood.
you had potential knew that you’ll be someone great
Your abilities were evident, and it was clear you were destined for success.
they see that smile on your face but they don’t know your pain
Others may admire your happiness but are oblivious to your struggles.
I witnessed it all them nights sitting up on the floor
I saw firsthand the late nights of perseverance and determination you endured.
member when yall lit them candle cause they turned the power off
Recalling the times you faced hardship but found ways to persevere and stay motivated.
or that time when your momma broke down in tears you just held it in
You saw your mother’s struggles and chose to be strong for her, suppressing your own feelings.
you ain’t want pity from your friends well your friends would soon become your enemies
You preferred resilience over sympathy, realizing some friendships might turn sour.
cause you choose to chase your dreams and you wasn’t content in these streets
Your decision to pursue your ambitions meant breaking free from a life that didn’t fulfill you.
if you ask me they wasn’t in your best interest
Those around you may have held you back rather than supported your dreams.
you got greatness in you when you going to embrace
Recognize and accept the greatness within yourself; it’s time to fully embrace it.
don’t be so complicated with the life you living
Simplicity can be powerful; avoid overthinking your current situation.
when you going to take it you go to take they not going to give it to you
Opportunity must be seized rather than waited for; you have to take action.
why you waiting look in they faces they shameless
Stop hesitating; recognize the lack of belief others had in your potential.
they didn’t believe you now you made it
Those who doubted you have been proven wrong by your achievements.
Ceez been told you you destined for greatness
Understand that someone always believed in your capability for success.
(Hook) Dunking on the MVP and I believed in you
Your accomplishments are a testament to your skill; my faith in you has been validated.
You hot your sweat hit the ground
The effort you’ve exerted is evident in every aspect of your game.
So I feel heat with you
We share in both the challenges and triumphs you’ve experienced.
Cause you dribble me right after
Your movement through challenges reflects our support for each other.
Crossover in and out him
Skillfully navigating setbacks while pursuing your goals.
Go to the arc and release
Position yourself for success and take the shot with confidence.
I drill the hoop after
Following your successful actions, I achieve my own goals too.
Say yea there go that dagger now you walking with a swagger
Your decisive moves have led to victory, boosting your confidence.
We hit him with that dagger now you walking with a swagger (2x)
Together, we've achieved significant success, and you've gained confidence from it.
(Verse) Told you you would never be big as Cole Kendrick Lamar Hov Wale that boy Big Sean
People claim you will never reach the greatness of established icons in the industry.
you got be complicated content with the life you living
Many believe you ought to accept a less ambitious lifestyle rather than pursue greatness.
you will never make it just face it
People are often too quick to dismiss your potential and claim you won’t succeed.
the rhymes you spitting they to basic to basic aye
Critics argue that your creativity lacks depth and originality.
the rhymes you spitting they to basic basic just face it
Acknowledgment that your style does not meet their expectations and needs improvement.
What good is being the profit if you too afraid to show it
Having talent is irrelevant if you're hesitant to share it with the world.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: JAMIE MONTELL GATSON
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@8macvar
Song got me thru a lot of late nights drivin thru the east
@JoseHernandez-sy1kd
Omm
@lenndeeton8406
Still slappin in 2019 💪🏽👌🏽
@toya644able
Lenn Deeton I swear
@citystarridin
2021 til infinity 👋
@aefriedman3983
trappin 2022 til i die
@courtnocase
My mf song i been looking for it for like 4 years on spotify thank you jstalin
@ronaldogalvez2341
Shoutout my older senior niggas in hs in ‘16 when I was a freshman,if it wasn’t for yaw I prolly woulda never started smoking and opening up to our local underground music in the bay 🙏
@mreastoaklandmoneymacca6698
2020 still slappin this thang REAL TOWN SHIT #REALWESTEASTNORTHOAKLAND
@LJones-iw9rv
I'm diggin' how DJ Fresh flipped that Anita Baker in this beat. That shit is hellified hard. I'm from Denver and out here Mo Heat is one of the best producers I ever heard. I feel DJ Fresh is right there along with Mo. These are underground beat artists that can compete with the DJ Quik's and Dr Dre's. Just my thought.