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't Nutthin'
MF DOOM Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
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!
In the song "It Ain't Nuttin", MF Doom and Ghostface Killah showcase their lyrical prowess and unique styles that have become synonymous with their respective careers. The opening lines set the tone for the rest of the song, with Doom rapping about spilling drinks and getting stank on you, while the chorus serves as a reminder that they have returned, and the Wu-Tang Clan is back.
Throughout the song, both rappers reference various pop culture figures, from Dolemite to Angela Bassett, showcasing their knowledge and appreciation of movies and TV shows. They also rap about their love for firearms and have mastered their use, with Doom describing his ability to handle plastic while Ghostface refers to his uzi.
The song is also full of witty one-liners and wordplay, such as when Doom says he pulls rabbits out of the hat, and Ghostface mentioning "diamond twice" when referring to his jewelry. The chorus repeats the phrase "I got my uzi back, you dudes are wack, face it the Wu is back," driving home the message that the Wu-Tang Clan is still a force to be reckoned with in the rap game.
Line by Line Meaning
Yo, yeah
Greetings and affirmation
Don't erase none of that good shit in the beginnin'
Preserve and appreciate the valuable content from the start
Yo, spill drinks on ya, get stank on ya
Mess with you, disrupt your comfort
Yo, yo, pinky ring shit, yo
Emphasizing the significance of luxurious lifestyle
That pinky ring shit yo
Repeated emphasis on the luxurious lifestyle
It's that pinky ring shit, the legend of masked kid
Symbolizing the persona of a masked hero with elegance
Shoot out the speakers when my guns get Jurassic
Metaphorical expression of the power and impact of the artist's music
Superbad, who am I? Dolemite classic
Comparison to the iconic blaxploitation film character known for his confidence and charm
The vandal's back, hands on Angela Bassett
Asserting dominance and control, referencing a renowned actress
I handle my plastic, gun play I mastered
Proficiency and expertise in handling firearms
No coke, dope mixed down with acid on record
Referring to the artist's unique and unconventional style of music
Broken down and crafted in seconds
Creation and refinement of artistic expression in a short period
Lady's choice, the golden voice still peppered
Recognizing the artist's vocal prowess and appeal to female listeners
Better, respect it, bitch believe
Demanding acknowledgment and admiration
I pull rabbits out the hat, tricks up my sleeves
Ability to surprise and impress with hidden skills and abilities
I air out the showroom, the shit can breathe
Unleashing creativity and allowing it to flourish
Fix your weave, behold my expertise
Suggesting improvement and admiration for the artist's talent
Take it back to the ? leanin' gettin' rec room punch
Nostalgic reference to partying and enjoying life
We in them authentic alley switchin' joints
Navigating through genuine and unique experiences
Major general niggas, five stars
Being at the top of the game, possessing great power and influence
Both arms rock when coke dropped we read a hundred niggas palms
Reacting vigorously to opportunities, predicting success
Silencers, garbage bags of hash
Utilizing discreet methods and collecting valuable possessions
For every cop we paid retired now the nigga on smash
Overcoming obstacles and prevailing against authority
Gash you out your burner fast
Disarming opponents swiftly and effectively
You swing down hatin' me now respect get your fingers off the glass
Transforming negativity into respect and demanding boundaries
Yo what the fuck yo?! Yo what the fuck y'all comin' for?
Expressing frustration and confusion towards unexpected visitors
Get the fuck away from my door!
Showing hostility and demanding privacy
We got big guns in here, coke over there
Asserting dominance and ownership of weapons and drugs
With blue bag and E pills stashed under the chair
Concealing illegal substances for personal use
And there's Boss Hog black and white pit with the pink lips
Describing a distinctive and formidable dog with distinctive features
Stan thought he was soft 'til he bit his fingers
Surprising someone who underestimated the artist's toughness
The shit had me dyin' yo, big fat nigga bleedin'
Finding amusement in the misfortune of others, especially enemies
Big cat nigga all season
Recognizing greatness and power that is consistent throughout the year
On the beach truck, stuck with Hawaiian ice
Enjoying luxury and indulging in expensive items
Diamond twice the whole city thought I bought Fubu
Implying wealth and status, surpassing public expectations
Blew you, authentic doodoo, picture the fog iced out
Eliminating competition with ease and showcasing opulence
Eighteen karat rap between noodles
Creating a contrast between material wealth and artistic expression
Up at Killa Bee headquarters, full rips is poured up
Being in a place of power and indulging in intoxication
I saw ? sippin' Henny from a iced out cup
Observing someone enjoying an extravagant lifestyle with expensive drink
Yo with the blunt, two-way vibratin' off the hip
Being connected and engaged while relaxing and smoking marijuana
I sit took, three drags off the honey-dip
Savoring and experiencing pleasure from intimate encounters
Now what you talkin' you see my gold fronts sparkin'
Asserting status and attracting attention with flashy dental accessories
Ain't tryin' to hear what you dogs be barkin'
Ignoring the opinions and criticisms of others
Read the headline, that was blast on today's Post
Acknowledging the impact and publicity of one's actions
Dead King, thought he could ace Ghost
Referencing a failed attempt at rivalry or competition
Queen, couldn't even jack Monk
Mocking and belittling someone's incompetence
Probably find him in Doc Doom's back trunk
Predicting the location or outcome of an enemy's demise
Bdoodoodoo! I'm up at the Wu library
Announcing presence and reference to the collective identity
Readin' Malcolm's, "Any Means Necessary"
Engaging with influential literature and philosophy
John John, Bacardi straight up hold the ice
Identifying oneself and preference for a specific alcoholic beverage
So nice like New York they had to name him twice
Being highly regarded and recognized, like New York City
Name your price, I black out then change the lights
Having control and influence over a situation, including consequences
Give you the same advice that I gave my wife
Dispensing wisdom and guidance based on personal experience
Don't fuck with mine, Clan give you lumps in nine
Warning against interfering with personal and collective interests
Let the smoke cloud clear so the sun can shine
Allowing conflicts to dissipate in order to find resolution and peace
Culture shock, for some of us that's all we got
Highlighting the significance and impact of one's cultural identity
Whether you ball or not, you can all be shot
Reminding everyone of the shared vulnerability and mortality
New York, New York, legendary rhyme boss
Celebrating the status and reputation of being a skilled rapper from New York
Code name Charley Horse, bust with blind force
Adopting an alias and asserting power through forceful actions
I smash set it and wreck for cash credit or check
Delivering impressive performances and demanding appropriate compensation
You crabs test, can't measure the threat
Challenging and dismissing those who underestimate the artist's abilities
I dance on a nigga like my name's Zab Judah
Demonstrating agility and skill in overpowering opponents
Rap barracuda, three X-L kahuna
Dominating the rap game with ruthless intensity and size
Sure to get it perkin' and cause a disturbance
Ensuring attention and excitement by shaking things up
I'm thirstin', feel what I feel then we can merge then
Expressing desire and connection, seeking unity
Creep it through the states in V8's and 12's
Traveling and making an impact with powerful vehicles
My weight's hell, fuck with me then brace yourself
Warning against challenging or opposing the artist's influence
The Noble, Sir I mass mogul
Asserting power and status as a respected figure
Known to blast vocals, and move global on you locals
Being recognized for potent and far-reaching artistic abilities
This is grown man talkin', coward I split your head
Engaging in mature discourse and warning against confrontation with consequences
I'm from the East where the streets run red from the bloodshed
Describing a violent and intense environment shaped by conflict
Hit Chef for the rice and peas
Seeking comfort and satisfaction from familiar and nourishing food
Nuff respect Father E tumbled at ease
Showing admiration and reverence towards a spiritual figure
My brothers can't wait to squeeze the automatic
Expressing eagerness to engage in violence and assert power
They need wreck like a drug dealer need a addict
Desiring chaos and destruction as an addiction needs a user
Floatin' on the 95, sting like a killer bee
Driving smoothly and swiftly, striking with intensity like a dangerous insect
Your hands can't hit what your eyes can't see
Avoiding detection and harm by remaining unseen and elusive
From dark matter to the big crunch
Referencing cosmic phenomena, representing a vast range of experiences
The vocals came in a bunch without one punch
Delivering impactful lyrics without exerting much effort
Rare glimpse from the, strictly advanced, proved unstoppable
Providing a unique and exclusive view of elevated skill and invincibility
Reputation enhanced, since the cause was probable
Elevating status and perception due to evident capability
So you compare contrast but don't blast
Engaging in analysis and discussion without resorting to violence
Through extreme depths, with the pen I hold fast
Navigating challenging situations with confidence and skill as a writer
Watch the block thirst for one became all
Observing the neighborhood's consistent demand and admiration
Shot 'em with the long forgotten rainfall
Impacting listeners with forgotten, yet powerful, lyrics
Delivered in a vivid fashion with simplicity
Presenting complex ideas and emotions in a easily understandable manner
The blind couldn't verify the authenticity
Challenging those who cannot perceive the true essence of the artist's work
The rhyme came from the pressure of heat
Creating poetic verses under challenging and intense circumstances
Then it was laid out, on the ground to pave streets
Sharing and spreading the artistic expression to shape the culture
[Chorus]
Repeating the chorus
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@mattanderson126
The way he skips and skates all over the beat, but always finds his way back to it. Like a jazz musician. Fantastic.
@shrekvore3874
only real DOOM fans know about this one, Rest In Power Villain
@viktorvondoom9119
Its ridiculous how many people call all these remixed songs "Remixes of Books of War". Sure the beat is fucking good, but once you know the original, the flow another beat just doesnt make any sense!
Well barely ever, the one Grip Grand (Bain de Soleil) made is alright and also the one by DigDug (Rescue Khazakstan) is one I can stand from time to time.
@JankyBruv
This tiny ass thread holds all the truth.
@smitty7326
in the quiet times of each day, I find myself saying "hit me wit a full tin'a gin and i'm a kid again"
@JankyBruv
@@smitty7326 yeahhhh.... thats not quite right. Imma leave it at that.
@SurgeCess
Rest in peace MF DOOM! We love you man!
@Soft_Machine
RIP DOOM it's sad to see the Villain gone i remember first listening to MF DOOM when i was 5 this was the first MF DOOM song ive ever heard this is in Tony Hawk Underground and that's how I discovered him it's sad to see him go his music means a lot me
@matthewfrechette1169
if your head ain't bobbing to this song you ain't a true DOOM fan. for real if it is much respect y'all
@ZLScratch
I was always wondering why I liked MF Doom's stuff. It was Nostalgia, this was in Underground. I played the shit out of that game.