Banks was born in New Carrollton, Maryland and raised in Queens, New York. His mother named Rosa LLoyd of Puerto Rican descent and has a Haitian-American father. His father spent most of Lloyd's childhood in prison, leaving his mother to raise him and his two siblings. Lloyd attended August Martin High School but dropped out at age 16. For his stage name, he took his great, great-grandfather's name Banks, which was passed on by his uncles who also shared it.
G-Unit was founded when childhood friends Lloyd Banks, 50 Cent, and Tony Yayo decided to make a group with each other. They met Young Buck when UTP group came to New York and 50 Cent heard Young Buck rapping. After 50 Cent signed his contract with Aftermath Entertainment they took Young Buck in the group and signed him. Tony Yayo, being an older and more experienced rapper, joined 50 Cent on the Nas Promo Tour, the Cash Money Tour and the Ruff Ryders Tour. As Banks remained at home waiting for 50 and Yayo to return, he started rappin around the neighborhood to further increase his buzz on the streets. He then hooked up with neighborhood producers and made tracks for local mixtapes. Lloyd Banks has a renowned reputation on the mixtape scene. While Banks was making Mixtapes,50 Cent was soon granted his own record label by Dr. Dre and released the album Get Rich or Die Tryin'; Lloyd Banks was featured on the song "Don't Push Me", and the remixed version of "P.I.M.P". Soon after the group had established their own record label, G-Unit Records, G-Unit released their first official group album Beg for Mercy in November 2003, which went on to be certified double platinum.
During August 2005, Lloyd Banks, Young Buck, and their entourage were traveling in a van, when the vehicle was pulled over after passing through a red light in midtown Manhattan. Officers said they discovered a loaded handgun and another weapon in the van. Prosecutors asked a judge to dismiss the charges after an investigation determined that neither Lloyd Banks nor Young Buck was in possession of the weapons. Felony gun charges against Lloyd Banks and Young Buck were dropped on November 8, 2006.
In the early morning hours of January 9, 2010, in a Kitchener, Ontario hotel, an alleged altercation took place between Banks and a concert promoter over performance fees. Banks, and three of his associates, were later charged with forcible confinement, aggravated assault and robbery, and released on $50,000 bail.
In late January 2010, it was announced that Banks would release a new song, "Beamer, Benz, or Bentley" featuring Juelz Santana, from his upcoming third studio album. "Beamer, Benz, or Bentley" charted at #49 on the Billboard Hot 100. Lloyd Banks release info via his twitter announcing that the title for his third album has tentatively been called The Hunger for More 2' and will attempt to take him back to his best work. However, the G-Unit label later stated that the title is not set in concrete and still may be altered. The title of the album was confirmed by 50 Cent as H.F.M. 2 (The Hunger for More 2) in a interview with MTV News. According to Banks, Interscope is trying to get him back due to the success of the single "Beamer, Benz, or Bentley".
Menace
Lloyd Banks Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Since my DOB, they knew I'd be a menace
Believe in me, threw on my shades and S-O-X hat
Back on my Eazy E
I hit my number every time
And I'm rapping on PEDs
Made millions off MP3s
Did that with a GED
Just back to your EBT
Top down on the Interstate
Make the back of the GT bleed
You never really did shit so your story is a easy read
And I'm sharp as ever and get to the Benjamins like Embid
I'm a true boss, blue Porsche
Don't get too lost, new cause
My lil' nigga bangin', send him knock your bitch ass, roof off
Got this full SIG makin' it hard to ditch that fluke off
I'm recharged again
Couple of mill' to get back, few doors
Bladders paint a picture
Shit been lookin' blurry on your end
The fuck I'm hangin' with ya?
You've been seeking strangers for attention
Don't let fame, it get ya
Winnin'll do magic
Kill your haters with the same elixir
Bankroll in this motherfucker, nigga
Nigga, add it to my legend (my legend)
I'm back to droppin' another classic on you
And we all know what I'm reppin'
Southside is the section (the section)
Learned to keep it low, mind your only if you don't want no connection
Dog, imagine how I'm steppin' (how I'm steppin')
Loyal to my family, every hour, minute, second
Nigga, add it to my legend (to my legend)
Came alone and leave alone, I had to learn my lesson
Yeah
You already know when they cut the Pro Tools on
I slaughter any production I gotta lay vocals on
Them old niggas didn't embrace a nigga with open arms
Fuck them niggas, they broken and I'm only focused on the bag, nigga (talk to them niggas)
Ask my young boy, "What you smokin' on?" (what you smokin', fool?)
He say, "This just a pack of a dead opp" (hahahaha)
The back of your head drop from this MAC when his lead pop (brr, brr)
Made a couple million dollars from rappin'
The feds watch like we actually still package and wrappin', on rap block (what?)
We just dropping back to back and we back for your headtop, nigga (boom, boom, boom, boom, boom)
When I'm on Dykeman, bitches call the Machine, big papi
And not the guy that bat for the Red Sox (ah)
If you diss me in your song, you think I'm 'bout to respond with a verse
Nah, I get you back with a headshot (boom, boom, boom)
Look, the comparisons is usually not wise
If you didn't cop pies
Two of your top fives (brr)
Nigga, add it to my legend (my legend)
I'm back to droppin' another classic on you
And we all know what I'm reppin'
Southside is the section (the section)
Learned to keep it low, mind your only if you don't want no connection
Dog, imagine how I'm steppin' (how I'm steppin')
Loyal to my family, every hour, minute, second
Nigga, add it to my legend (to my legend)
Came alone and leave alone, I had to learn my lesson
Yo
God gave me the gift of gab
Slick talk my way out of a polygraph
I'm in my catch a body bag
Skin strong as Bacardi glass
Play 'round every one gon' leave out with sum like party bags
Pricy army tags, weed hitting off a Ferrari Dash
Just a, "Sorry, class"
Ten toes watchin' the market crash
Wasn't no Target slash
Those stick around with no parking pass
Sticky palms ahead
Brown bag keys and apartment stash
It's only right I shine bright
Made it out of a darker past
Cracked the windows, let the heaters in
Always been superstitious
Ain't no way around the PTSD from the cruel conditions
Everything is independent now, droppin' on due permission
Probably learn a thing or two if you listen, my nigga
You mean, lil' Soulja, he'll holla back when the dance is over
Two middle fingers, put "Fuck you's" up to the cancel culture
Can't stand a vulture, it's sittin', borders'll antidote ya
The very moment she hit, the plan is over
Nigga, add it to my legend (my legend)
I'm back to droppin' another classic on you
And we all know what I'm reppin'
Southside is the section (the section)
Learned to keep it low, mind your only if you don't want no connection
Dog, imagine how I'm steppin' (how I'm steppin')
Loyal to my family, every hour, minute, second
Nigga, add it to my legend (to my legend)
Came alone and leave alone, I had to learn my lesson
Lloyd Banks and Conway The Machine are two prolific rappers who collaborated to release a hit song titled "Menace." Banks begins by highlighting how he has been viewed as a "menace" since birth, and he has since become a successful artist despite not having a formal education. He then goes on to illustrate how he has struck it rich in the music industry, making millions off MP3 sales, and purchasing a blue Porsche. He advises other rappers who seek his attention not to let fame consume them, and instead, they should focus on winning and spreading positivity.
Conway The Machine jumps in with a punchy verse, noting how he is focused on making music and ensuring his family is taken care of. He points out that he is not interested in receiving acknowledgment from anyone, specifically from aging rappers who refused to support him. He claims that he only cares about making money and coming back stronger every time someone tries to put him down. In addition, he raps about making millions from his music, despite being watched by the police. He concludes by bragging about how he managed to escape from the dark days of his past and rise to success.
Line by Line Meaning
Since my DOB, they knew I'd be a menace
Ever since I was born, people knew I would be trouble.
Believe in me, threw on my shades and S-O-X hat
I gained confidence, put on my sunglasses and hat representing my hometown.
Back on my Eazy E
I am channeling the style and attitude of Eazy-E, a legendary rapper.
I hit my number every time
I always succeed and achieve my goals.
And I'm rapping on PEDs
I'm performing at an enhanced level, like I'm on performance-enhancing drugs.
Made millions off MP3s
I earned a fortune from selling digital music files.
Did that with a GED
I achieved all this success with only a General Educational Development certificate.
You done fucked to pull your hand out
You messed up and now you're trying to fix your mistake.
Just back to your EBT
You're going back to relying on government assistance.
Top down on the Interstate
Driving with the convertible top down on the highway.
Make the back of the GT bleed
Driving fast, causing damage to the back of my sports car.
You never really did shit so your story is a easy read
You never accomplished anything significant, so it's easy to understand your story.
And I'm sharp as ever and get to the Benjamins like Embid
I'm as focused and skilled as ever, making money like Joel Embiid, a professional basketball player.
I'm a true boss, blue Porsche
I'm a genuine leader, driving a blue Porsche.
Don't get too lost, new cause
Don't lose your direction, find a new purpose.
My lil' nigga bangin', send him knock your bitch ass, roof off
My young associate is armed and dangerous, ready to cause harm and destruction.
Got this full SIG makin' it hard to ditch that fluke off
I have a fully loaded handgun, making it difficult to escape the dangerous situation.
I'm recharged again
I am revitalized and ready to go.
Couple of mill' to get back, few doors
I need a couple of million dollars to regain what I lost and open up new opportunities.
Bladders paint a picture
Money and success tell a story.
Shit been lookin' blurry on your end
Your perspective has been distorted and unclear recently.
The fuck I'm hangin' with ya?
Why would I associate myself with someone like you?
You've been seeking strangers for attention
You've been trying to gain attention and validation from random people.
Don't let fame, it get ya
Don't allow fame to corrupt and change you.
Winnin'll do magic
Success and victory can bring extraordinary results.
Kill your haters with the same elixir
Defeat your enemies by using the same methods and tactics they use against you.
Nigga, add it to my legend (my legend)
Include this in my legacy of greatness.
I'm back to droppin' another classic on you
I am returning to release another timeless and influential piece of music.
And we all know what I'm reppin'
Everyone knows I represent my Southside neighborhood.
Southside is the section (the section)
The Southside is the specific area I'm talking about.
Learned to keep it low, mind your only if you don't want no connection
I learned to keep a low profile and be cautious about who I associate with.
Dog, imagine how I'm steppin' (how I'm steppin')
Man, you can't even fathom the confident way in which I carry myself.
Loyal to my family, every hour, minute, second
I am dedicated and faithful to my family at all times.
Came alone and leave alone, I had to learn my lesson
I entered this world alone and will leave it alone, teaching me an important life lesson.
You already know when they cut the Pro Tools on
You're aware that when I start recording with Pro Tools, it's game on.
I slaughter any production I gotta lay vocals on
I effortlessly dominate any beat I rap over.
Them old niggas didn't embrace a nigga with open arms
The older generation of rappers didn't welcome and support me when I entered the industry.
Fuck them niggas, they broken and I'm only focused on the bag, nigga (talk to them niggas)
I don't care about those unsuccessful rappers, I'm solely focused on making money.
Ask my young boy, 'What you smokin' on?' (what you smokin', fool?)
I ask my young associate what type of drugs he's consuming.
He say, 'This just a pack of a dead opp' (hahahaha)
He responds, saying it's a package of drugs named after a deceased rival.
The back of your head drop from this MAC when his lead pop (brr, brr)
The back of someone's head will be shot and killed by my Mac-10 firearm.
Made a couple million dollars from rappin'
I earned several million dollars through my rap career.
The feds watch like we actually still package and wrappin', on rap block (what?)
The authorities are monitoring us as if we're still involved in illegal activities, like selling drugs.
We just dropping back to back and we back for your headtop, nigga (boom, boom, boom, boom, boom)
We're releasing consecutive hits, and we're here to dominate and defeat our competition.
When I'm on Dykeman, bitches call the Machine, big papi
When I'm in the Dykeman neighborhood, women refer to me as 'The Machine' and 'big papi' (a term of endearment).
And not the guy that bat for the Red Sox (ah)
They're not referring to the baseball player David Ortiz who played for the Boston Red Sox.
If you diss me in your song, you think I'm 'bout to respond with a verse
If you disrespect me in your song, don't expect me to reply with just a verse.
Nah, I get you back with a headshot (boom, boom, boom)
No, I'll get back at you by shooting you in the head.
Look, the comparisons is usually not wise
It's usually unwise to compare oneself to others.
If you didn't cop pies
If you weren't involved in illegal activities.
Two of your top fives (brr)
Two of your favorite rappers.
God gave me the gift of gab
I have been blessed with the ability to speak eloquently and persuasively.
Slick talk my way out of a polygraph
I can use my smooth words to deceive lie detector tests.
I'm in my catch a body bag
I'm ready to commit a murder.
Skin strong as Bacardi glass
My skin is resilient and unbreakable, like a Bacardi glass.
Play 'round every one gon' leave out with sum like party bags
If you mess around with me, someone will end up getting hurt or killed.
Pricy army tags, weed hitting off a Ferrari Dash
I wear expensive jewelry and smoke high-quality marijuana while driving a fast car.
Just a, 'Sorry, class'
Just a sarcastic apology, as I'm not truly remorseful.
Ten toes watchin' the market crash
I'm financially aware and observant, preparing for market crashes.
Wasn't no Target slash
There were no discounts or bargains.
Those stick around with no parking pass
Those who are persistent and committed, even without official access.
Sticky palms ahead
There are great opportunities and rewards in the near future.
Brown bag keys and apartment stash
I secure my valuable possessions, such as car keys and money, in a hidden spot.
It's only right I shine bright
It's only appropriate for me to achieve success and stand out.
Made it out of a darker past
I successfully escaped from a troubled and difficult past.
Cracked the windows, let the heaters in
I opened the car windows to let in some fresh air and turned on the heat.
Always been superstitious
I've always had beliefs in luck and superstitions.
Ain't no way around the PTSD from the cruel conditions
There's no avoiding the post-traumatic stress disorder resulting from the harsh circumstances I've experienced.
Everything is independent now, droppin' on due permission
I'm operating independently and releasing music only with proper authorization.
Probably learn a thing or two if you listen, my nigga
You might actually gain some knowledge and wisdom if you pay attention, my friend.
You mean, lil' Soulja, he'll holla back when the dance is over
You're referring to my young associate, who will retaliate when everything settles down.
Two middle fingers, put 'Fuck you's' up to the cancel culture
I raise both middle fingers to the movement of canceling and boycotting individuals for their actions or opinions.
Can't stand a vulture, it's sittin', borders'll antidote ya
I despise someone who takes advantage of others' misfortune, and I have a plan to counter them.
The very moment she hit, the plan is over
Once she's successful in achieving her goal, the plan will come to an end.
Nigga, add it to my legend (my legend)
Include this in my legacy of greatness.
I'm back to droppin' another classic on you
I am returning to release another timeless and influential piece of music.
And we all know what I'm reppin'
Everyone knows I represent my Southside neighborhood.
Southside is the section (the section)
The Southside is the specific area I'm talking about.
Learned to keep it low, mind your only if you don't want no connection
I learned to keep a low profile and be cautious about who I associate with.
Dog, imagine how I'm steppin' (how I'm steppin')
Man, you can't even fathom the confident way in which I carry myself.
Loyal to my family, every hour, minute, second
I am dedicated and faithful to my family at all times.
Nigga, add it to my legend (to my legend)
Include this in my legacy of greatness.
Came alone and leave alone, I had to learn my lesson
I entered this world alone and will leave it alone, teaching me an important life lesson.
Lyrics © JN MEDIA MUSIC PUBLISHING
Written by: Christopher Charles Lloyd, Demond Price
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
D9K Sounds
Give this Man Some Respect!!!!!!!!!
He Number 1 Since The Beginning
#WithoutMyGlock : I'm on another level when it comes to this, cats swung and missed
Strapped under this
Rap's hungriest, top soloist, hopped over this!!!!!! 🧱💯🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🎤
Please dont Mess with this Man
Im warning yall Rappers Man do not even think about beefin with Banks 🔝🎤💯🔥🔥🚀 #GettingMoney :Come swingin' you'll be bleedin' from the gun
'Cause I ain't tryna wrestle not even with my thumb (OH!)
I went to hot Cancun from freezin' in the slum
Half done, off Bacardi Breezers with the rum (WOOO!)
I ain't never been a cuddlier she's leavin' when I come
Like Deebo on his bike: "Spend the evening with your son!" 💯🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 Comon Man Yall Know Enough Now 🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀💯🎤
RU$$ ill!
Both these dudes snapped. Banks is a certified lyrical legend
Psycho Logical
Facts bro Banks the reason I even listened to G Unit just to hear his verse, he was always meant to be a solo artist, his shine too bright, Conway can hold his own on a track wit Banks tho
Kevin
Real talk
User3762
Let’s go Banks. You don’t need anyone but yourself to keep pushing out good music and collabs 🔥🔥🔥
DCarroll
COTI 2????
Y K
< 50k views says otherwise unfortunately
J.O.
@Y K He's independent and didn't even put out a music video.
Y K
@J.O. he was a member of G-UNIT, one of the biggest rap groups in the world. Stop kidding yourself.
Tharsan Jeyachandran
@Y K even 50 cent does low views now days
Jay Lance
Everytime I see banks drop a new track I dead ass freeze for like two seconds
We love you banks keep the music coming bro!