Born in London, Dumile moved with his family to Long Island, New York at a young age. He began his musical career in 1988 as a member of the East Coast hip-hop trio KMD, at which time he performed under the name Zev Love X. KMD disbanded in 1993 following the death of Dumile's brother, DJ Subroc. After taking a hiatus from the music scene, Dumile reemerged in 1998, when he began performing at open mic events while wearing a mask. He adopted the MF DOOM persona and rarely made unmasked public appearances from that time onward. His metal mask resembles that of Marvel Comics supervillain Doctor Doom, who is depicted rapping on the cover of his 1999 debut solo album Operation: Doomsday. In the early 2000s, Dumile also released solo albums under the pseudonyms King Geedorah and Viktor Vaughn.
MF DOOM appeared in several collaborative projects such as Madvillain (with Madlib), DANGERDOOM (with Danger Mouse), DOOMSTARKS (with Ghostface Killah), JJ DOOM (with Jneiro Jarel), NEHRUVIANDOOM (with Bishop Nehru), and Czarface Meets Metal Face (with CZARFACE).
Dumile was born on 9 January 1971 in London, England, the son of a Trinidadian mother and a Zimbabwean father. His family moved to Long Island, New York, when he was a child; Dumile remained a British citizen. Dumile grew up in Freeport, New York, and first started DJ'ing during the summer after third grade. Dumile had lived in London since 2009. Dumile was a follower of the Nuwaubian Nation.
Dumile created the MF DOOM character as an alter ego with a backstory he could reference in his music. The character combines elements from the Marvel Comics supervillain Doctor Doom, Destro, and the Phantom of the Opera; like Doctor Doom and Phantom, Dumile referred to himself in the third person while in character. His signature mask was similar to that of Doctor Doom, who is depicted rapping on the cover of Dumile's 1999 debut album Operation: Doomsday.
Dumile wore the mask while performing, and would not be photographed without it, except for short glimpses in videos and in earlier photos with KMD. Later versions of the mask were based on a prop from the 2000 film Gladiator. Academic Hershini Bhana Young argued that, by appropriating the Doctor Doom mask, Dumile "positions himself as enemy, not only of the music industry but also of dominant constructions of identity that relegate him as a black man to second-class citizenship".
Dumile's rap persona MF DOOM was known for his unique free-association rap style, challenging the conventional style of rhyming and flow. His interest in cartoons, comics and other pop culture realms as well as his distinct sampling/production inspired many contemporary artists today.
On December 31, 2020 it was announced on Dumile's Instagram and Facebook by his wife Jasmine, that the rapper had passed away on October 31 of that year at the age of 49.
After his death, Variety described him as one of the scene's "most celebrated, unpredictable and enigmatic figures". Dumile is considered one of the most celebrated and influential musicians in hip-hop. The English musician Thom Yorke, who collaborated with Dumile on two occasions, wrote: "He was a massive inspiration to so many of us, changed things... For me the way he put words was often shocking in its genius, using stream of consciousness in a way I'd never heard before." Stereogum, reviewing Operation: Doomsday on its 20th anniversary, noted Dumile's "formative" influence on younger rappers. El-P of Run the Jewels described him as a "writer's writer", while Q-Tip called him "your favorite rapper's favorite rapper".
It Ain
MF DOOM Lyrics
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Oh wait now, got his card here
Yea I got it in my pocket, now, let me see
Oh yes, here it is (DOOM i see)
MF DOOM: It ain't nuttin' like, Hip Hop music
It ain't nuttin' like a fist full of cash
Or a bliss full of the hash
Spread it like a rash
From talking through your Walkman or
At your disco bash
Give me the Timbs Rumpelstiltskin brown
A metal face mask with a built in frown
A mic to tilt down, a hundred thousand pounds
And see how kilt sound like spilt milk clown
Cocoa butter on very ashy day fam
With Ray-Bans out on the islands of Cayman
Or I'll break it down for the layman
Bain De Soleil for that Saint Tropez tannnn
A can a ole gold too cold to hold
Slow ya roll
Keep on moving like Soul I I Soul
Hold the dough
Like a fool who stole pity y'all
From tryna' go up against city hall titty bar
The black mic is like a red violin
Ok, everybody back to the lab, try again
Bloody rap game like Leviathan
Leave a bad taste
Killin' my high like Niacin
Stop kiddin' middlemen need Ritalin
Hit me with the full tin of
Gin and I'm a kid again
Keep the bong lightin' straight
Through the song writin'
The Supervillain AKA the thong bitin'
That's inviting all
To the reciting that's dope and raw
Hoping all y'all come in peace
And it's open bar
Tear the roof off this Bumba Ras Clot
By the end of the night spazz like Shazbot
Spilt a shot made the pen lines runny
An ill plot that's ten
Times Ben Stein’s money, funny
How he rips the scripts with a straight face
With more rhymes than is lines in ya database
Placing rappers in endangerment
Who's reckless with this food for thought
Sorta' like breakfast
You could mark it off as
Wreck on the checklist
Wear gold fronts, can't afford no necklace
Shit, that there
Could go to help buildin' daycares
Somebody say yeah (yeah) pay ya fares
Give the Herbalizers their shares
And y'all could pay DOOM in beers, cheers!
The lyrics of MF DOOM's "It Ain't Nuthin" talks about his status as an infamous musician who is known for his unique style and personality. He starts the verse by emphasizing that he doesn't want anyone to erase anything that he's said before. He then drops a few bars about his luxurious lifestyle, from his pinky ring to his expertise in handling music. References to Dolemite, Angela Bassett, and rabbits out of hats add to the indulgent vibe. DOOM also talks about his apparent mastery of gunplay, with guns that can "shoot out the singers" and be "crafted in seconds." Toward the end of the verse, he references the Wu-Tang Clan returning and his uzi being back in his possession.
The second verse takes a more violent turn, describing confrontations with police, evading capture, and the constant threat of violence. References to coke, hash, and silencers further enhance the gangsta rap vibe. DOOM also references Boss Hog and a black and white pit with pink lips, but it is unclear what these are in reference to. The verse ends with DOOM reading Malcolm X's "Any Means Necessary" at the Wu library.
In the last verse, DOOM raps about his status as a legendary musician and his lengthy career. He also talks about the violence and danger that comes with living in New York City, with references to Zab Judah and the bloodshed on the streets. He concludes that his music is unstoppable and will pave the way for future generations.
Line by Line Meaning
It's that pinky ring shit, the legend of masked kid
This song represents MF DOOM's signature style and persona, drawing inspiration from his masked identity and reputation.
Shoot out the speakers when my guns get Jurassic
When I rap, my rhymes hit hard and have a powerful impact on the audience.
Superbad, who am I? Dolemite classic
I'm so talented and influential in the rap game that I'm comparable to the iconic character Dolemite from the blaxploitation films.
The vandal's back, hands on Angela Bassett
I'm making a comeback and causing chaos, just like a vandal, with the same level of control and power as Angela Bassett in her roles.
I handle my plastic, gun play I mastered
I'm skilled at handling firearms and have perfected the art of using them in my music.
No coke, dope mixed down with acid on record
I don't rely on the use of drugs like cocaine, but I create unique and mind-altering music by experimenting with different sounds and techniques.
Broken down and crafted in seconds
I have the ability to quickly create and compose songs, breaking down complex ideas and crafting them into cohesive tracks in a short amount of time.
Lady's choice, the golden voice still peppered
My voice is highly desired by women and is considered a treasure in the music industry.
Better, respect it, bitch believe
You better show me respect and acknowledge my skills, or else.
I pull rabbits out the hat, tricks up my sleeves
I'm full of surprises and always have clever tricks and surprises up my sleeve when it comes to my music.
I air out the showroom, the shit can breathe
I bring a breath of fresh air to the music industry by showcasing my unique style and allowing my music to have room to thrive.
Fix your weave, behold my expertise
Get yourself together and pay attention to my mastery of the art form.
Take it back to the ? leanin' gettin' rec room punch
Let's go back to the old days when we used to hang out, drink punch in the rec room, and have a good time.
We in them authentic alley switchin' joints
We're out in the alleys, smoking real, high-quality joints and enjoying ourselves.
Major general niggas, five stars
We are highly skilled and accomplished individuals, like military generals with a five-star rank.
Both arms rock when coke dropped we read a hundred niggas palms
When we had a lot of cocaine available, we were able to make a lot of money and accurately predict the future for many people.
Silencers, garbage bags of hash
We have silencers for our guns to keep things quiet, and we also have a large amount of high-quality hash hidden away in garbage bags.
For every cop we paid retired now the nigga on smash
We used to bribe corrupt police officers, but now that they've retired, our business is flourishing and we are successful.
Gash you out your burner fast
I can quickly disarm and defeat anyone who tries to threaten me with a weapon.
You swing down hatin' me now respect get your fingers off the glass
Stop being jealous and hating on me, show me the respect I deserve, and keep your hands off my success.
Yo what the fuck yo?! Yo what the fuck y'all comin' for?
What is this commotion? Why are you bothering me?
Get the fuck away from my door!
Leave me alone, stay away from my personal space.
We got big guns in here, coke over there
We have powerful firearms in this place, and drugs like cocaine are present as well.
With blue bag and E pills stashed under the chair
We also have a stash of blue bags and ecstasy pills hidden underneath the chair.
And there's Boss Hog black and white pit with the pink lips
There's a large, strong, black and white pitbull with distinctive pink lips present.
Stan thought he was soft 'til he bit his fingers
Someone named Stan underestimated my toughness and strength, but they quickly realized their mistake when this pitbull bit their fingers.
The shit had me dyin' yo, big fat nigga bleedin'
The situation was hilarious to me, seeing a big, overweight person bleeding and in pain.
Big cat nigga all season
I'm a powerful and dominant figure, like a big cat, and I'm successful throughout the year.
On the beach truck, stuck with Hawaiian ice
I'm on a truck at the beach, enjoying myself, and I have high-quality Hawaiian ice with me.
Diamond twice the whole city thought I bought Fubu
I have incredibly valuable diamonds, and people in the city mistakenly thought I had enough wealth to buy the popular clothing brand Fubu.
Blew you, authentic doodoo, picture the fog iced out
I outshined and defeated you, leaving you feeling like a fake, while I remain cool and stylish.
Eighteen karat rap between noodles
I have a solid and valuable rap style, like 18 karat gold, which elevates my status and sets me apart.
Up at Killa Bee headquarters, full rips is poured up
I'm at the headquarters of the Wu-Tang Clan's affiliated group, the Killa Bees, and we're pouring up drinks and having a good time.
I saw ? sippin' Henny from a iced out cup
I witnessed someone, whose name is not mentioned, drinking Hennessy from a cup covered in diamonds.
Yo with the blunt, two-way vibratin' off the hip
I have a blunt in my hand and my two-way pager is constantly buzzing and vibrating on my hip.
I sit took, three drags off the honey-dip
I take a moment to relax and enjoy three drags of the marijuana joint.
Now what you talkin' you see my gold fronts sparkin'
Don't talk nonsense to me, I'm showing off my shiny gold teeth, which symbolize my success and wealth.
Ain't tryin' to hear what you dogs be barkin'
I don't care about your opinions or complaints, I'm not interested in listening to your nonsense.
Read the headline, that was blast on today's Post
Read the news headlines, there was a big story that made a huge impact, featured on today's newspaper.
Dead King, thought he could ace Ghost
Someone who thought they were powerful and skilled like a king underestimated me, MF DOOM, but they were wrong and now they're gone.
Queen, couldn't even jack Monk
Even someone who considered themselves a skilled queen couldn't defeat me, just like they couldn't defeat the famous jazz pianist Thelonious Monk.
Probably find him in Doc Doom's back trunk
You'd likely find that person locked up or hidden away in the trunk of my alter ego, Doctor Doom.
Bdoodoodoo! I'm up at the Wu library
I make a sound effect to signify my presence, and I'm currently at the Wu-Tang Clan's library, studying and gaining knowledge.
Readin' Malcolm's, 'Any Means Necessary'
I'm reading the works of Malcolm X, particularly his philosophy of utilizing any means necessary to achieve justice and equality.
John John, Bacardi straight up hold the ice
My name is John John, and I'm enjoying a glass of Bacardi without any dilution from ice.
So nice like New York they had to name him twice
I'm so talented and well-known that I'm compared to the greatness of New York City, which is famously referred to as 'New York, New York.'
Name your price, I black out then change the lights
Tell me how much you're willing to pay, and I'll give you an unforgettable performance where I take control and elevate the atmosphere.
Give you the same advice that I gave my wife
I'll offer you the same wisdom and guidance that I share with my wife, showing that I value and prioritize the people closest to me.
Don't fuck with mine, Clan give you lumps in nine
Don't mess with my crew, the Wu-Tang Clan, because we will retaliate and give you serious injuries.
Let the smoke cloud clear so the sun can shine
We need to let the tensions settle and conflicts resolve, so that peace and positivity can prevail.
Culture shock, for some of us that's all we got
The stark differences between various cultures can be overwhelming and all we have to cling to.
Whether you ball or not, you can all be shot
Regardless of your wealth or status, anyone can become a victim of violence or lose their life.
New York, New York, legendary rhyme boss
I'm an iconic figure in the rap game, especially in the city of New York, known for my exceptional rhymes and skills.
Code name Charley Horse, bust with blind force
My code name is Charley Horse, and I deliver powerful, unstoppable blows to my opponents.
I smash set it and wreck for cash credit or check
I dominate and destroy any stage or performance, whether it's for money, recognition, or any form of payment.
You crabs test, can't measure the threat
If you try to challenge me, you'll quickly realize that you can't accurately assess the level of danger or skill I possess.
I dance on a nigga like my name's Zab Judah
I effortlessly maneuver and outperform my opponents, just like the famous boxer Zab Judah in the ring.
Rap barracuda, three X-L kahuna
I'm a fierce and relentless rapper, like a barracuda, and I'm an extra large figure in the rap industry.
Sure to get it perkin' and cause a disturbance
I'm guaranteed to get the crowd excited and cause a commotion with my energetic performances.
I'm thirstin', feel what I feel then we can merge then
I have a deep desire for success and recognition, and once you understand and appreciate my perspective, we can come together and collaborate.
Creep it through the states in V8's and 12's
I travel discreetly and swiftly across different states in powerful cars with powerful engines.
My weight's hell, fuck with me then brace yourself
I carry a lot of influence and power, so if you try to confront or challenge me, be prepared for the consequences.
The Noble, Sir I mass mogul
I'm highly respected and revered, like a noble and distinguished figure, and I'm a powerful and influential entrepreneur.
Known to blast vocals, and move global on you locals
I'm known for delivering explosive and impactful lyrics, and my influence extends globally, even overpowering local artists.
This is grown man talkin', coward I split your head
I speak with maturity and wisdom, so don't cross me or I'll cause serious harm to you.
I'm from the East where the streets run red from the bloodshed
I come from the Eastern part of the city, where violence and criminal activities are prevalent, resulting in bloodshed and chaos.
Hit Chef for the rice and peas
I go to my friend Chef for a meal of Jamaican cuisine, specifically rice and peas, which represents my connection to the culture.
Nuff respect Father E tumbled at ease
I show great respect to my friend Father E, who effortlessly deals with any obstacles or challenges.
My brothers can't wait to squeeze the automatic
My companions can't wait to use their automatic weapons and unleash their aggression.
They need wreck like a drug dealer needs a addict
They thrive on destruction and violence, just like a drug dealer relies on addicts for business.
Floatin' on the 95, sting like a killer bee
I'm cruising on the highway, riding smoothly like a killer bee and delivering stinging blows to my enemies.
Your hands can't hit what your eyes can't see
I'm so quick and elusive that it's impossible for you to physically touch me if you can't even see where I am.
From dark matter to the big crunch
From the unknown mysteries of the universe to its eventual collapse and rebirth
The vocals came in a bunch without one punch
My words and rhymes are powerful and impactful, even though they don't rely on physical violence.
Rare glimpse from the, strictly advanced, proved unstoppable
I provide a rare and profound insight into the world, showcasing my advanced abilities and proving that I cannot be stopped.
Reputation enhanced, since the cause was probable
My reputation and standing in the industry have only grown stronger because my music and persona are relatable and believable.
So you compare contrast but don't blast
You can analyze and compare me to others, but don't underestimate or attack me.
Through extreme depths, with the pen I hold fast
I delve into the deepest and most difficult subjects, using my pen and writing skills to stay strong and resolute.
Watch the block thirst for one became all
I observe the neighborhood eagerly anticipating my presence, as they recognize and appreciate my talent and influence.
Shot 'em with the long forgotten rainfall
I bring a refreshing and rejuvenating energy to the rap game, just like a long-forgotten rainfall in the desert.
Delivered in a vivid fashion with simplicity
I present my lyrics in a clear and impactful manner, using vivid imagery and straightforward language.
The blind couldn't verify the authenticity
Even those who can't see or fully understand can recognize and appreciate the genuine and authentic nature of my music.
The rhyme came from the pressure of heat
My powerful and impactful rhymes are a result of the intense pressure and challenges I face in life and the music industry.
Then it was laid out, on the ground to pave streets
Once the lyrics were finished and perfected, they were released and spread throughout the world, leaving a lasting impact and influencing future generations.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind