Masta Killa was the last member to join the Wu-Tang Clan; consequently he did not appear on the group's debut single "Protect Ya Neck". He was also the only member not to already be an experienced rapper at the time of the group's formation. He was extensively mentored by the GZA during his early days with the group, evident in the similar flow they both employ. He derived his rap name from the 1978 kung-fu film Shaolin Master Killer, (Shao Lin san shi liu fang). Masta only appeared on one track on the Wu-Tang Clan's first album in 1993, though his only verse on the album, the closing verse to "Da Mystery of Chessboxin", is considered by many fans to be one of its most memorable. Masta only narrowly made the track, and was almost left off in favor of Killah Priest. In fact, on the No Said Date DVD, Killah Priest claims that he and Masta Killa were in competition for the spot on Da Mystery of Chessboxin', and while Killah Priest fell asleep, Masta Killa stayed up all night writing rhymes and Killah Priest woke up the next morning to Masta Killa's verse. Since he was a developing rapper at the time Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) was being written, his verse in "Da Mystery of Chessboxin" was the only one that could hold up with the other, more experienced Wu-Tang members.
During the first round of solo projects, he made several appearances on tracks now considered Wu-Tang classics, such as "Winter Warz", "Duel of the Iron Mic", and "Glaciers of Ice". His flow at the time attracted attention for being very slow and laid-back, in contrast to the more manic, forceful styles of members like Inspectah Deck and Ghostface Killah. Masta Killa is also the Clansman fondest of Chinese martial arts imagery. In 1997, the Wu-Tang Clan's second album Wu-Tang Forever saw Masta become a mainstay in the group's line-up with regular appearances throughout the double album.
Masta Killa was the last member to release a solo project, after it was delayed for several years and finally released in June 2004 (2004 in music) with the title No Said Date. It was critically acclaimed and heralded by fans as a return to form for the Clan, with an ethos and sound reminiscent of the early and mid-1990s Wu-Tang and affiliate albums. His second album, Made in Brooklyn, was released in August 8, 2006, and includes production from Pete Rock and MF DOOM. "Ringing Bells", the Bronze Nazareth-produced lead single from the album, was released in March 2006. Also in 2006, Masta Killa became the latest in a succession of hip hop artists to endorse PETA, also participating in an advertisement for the organization and is also vegetarian.
He is known for being the most quiet and mysterious member of the Wu-Tang Clan, and little is still known about him. He rarely speaks in Wu-Tang interviews, and does not give many independent interviews. "I know I seem serious and quiet to a lot of the fans. That's because I take my work seriously. It's not a game. The Clan and I work hard to give you the best," says Masta Killa.
Name
Masta Killa takes his name from the 1978 film by Lau Kar-leung called Master Killer also known as The 36th Chamber of Shaolin. The main character in the movie is played by Gordon Liu who can be seen in many other films including a double role in Kill Bill.
Aliases
Jamel Irief (pron. Juh-mel I-reef)
High Chief
Noodles (from the film Once Upon a Time in America)
Cereal Man
Luongo
Whatever
Masta Killa Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I see him Killa blast on 'em, never yo
I got the drop on you, don't flinch
Pop niggaz like John Lynch
Leave niggaz in they own stench
I'mma light drinker, heavy smoker
Pass the money, over, my whole crew is ex-cons
Be alarmed, when you hear the err-urrrrr
It's on, Silverback niggaz under the stairs
When we link up, we travel in pairs
Ya'll niggaz best to beware of the most thoroughest
Cover all aspects, four corners
You can't creep up on us
I'm takin' one for the team, deal me in
And when the smoke clears, do it again
This ain't a side show, you can die slow
There's no I in team, we all ride yo!
The Masta brought the ceremony, this is my testament
Homicide Housing, that's what I represent
Criminal gun play, chemical dream to P.J.'s
Last raid, another fed paid, bed rum: Sunday
The world dyin' for the love of money
Expensive chains, intensive pain from that cocaine
Condition the brain, children in strain, as I look back
Memory lane, civil and plain, it be in fame
A major part of the game, chemistry grain
Foolish kids ran when I came
Forty acres, five percent of terrain
Spark right through my vein tunnel, aim through this jungle of rain
A lot of haters wanna see us hang
But watch me bang as in Eagle/Crane
Step back, shatter your frame
Another victim in the system where he barely sustained
Forkin' in, I sold a million way, his first campaign
Sippin' rosemary cherry champagne, nigga
The young and the dangerous, water on the wrist, ice cryst'
Talk with a lisp, then I be top of your list
[Chorus]
We all in this together, forever and ever
Down for whatever, whenever, yeah, yeah
We all in this together, forever and ever
Down for whatever, whenever
Check the Words from the Genius, that was written in pen
Murder gloves, hide the fingerprint, but never the sin
Ghetto prophet that's born to quote
Got the crimies, behind me, with the face on stroke
Don't provoke, trust son, that thing bust, and we roll dangerous
Who can handle us, when we rush the clubs on thrust
Yo, don't miss the lead vocalist, terrorist
Wu-Tang, a pure danger, the God hold a fort
Teach law, universal, beat down, my stomping ground
We hold courts in the streets of New York
Snort the gun powder, eyes stay red like fire
Cut the mic wire, hit a love ballad note
Pen stroke, beautiful quote, for you to deep throat
Ghetto life had to rough up in the housing
They only make 'em us, every twenty five thousand
[Chorus]
The song "Whatever" by Masta Killa is a reflection on the harsh realities of life in the ghetto. The sample "I think of sometime" is repeated throughout the song, providing a sense of reflection and introspection. Masta Killa asserts his power and influence, claiming to have the drop on his enemies and leaving them in their own stench. He also acknowledges his vices as a light drinker and heavy smoker, but remains vigilant in dodging show promoters.
The lyrics continue to touch on themes of violence and drugs, with references to criminal gun play and the use of cocaine. Masta Killa also pays homage to his Wu-Tang Clan roots, referencing RZA's album "Words from the Genius" and asserting their status as a dangerous force in the music industry. The chorus brings a sense of unity, with Masta Killa declaring that they are all in this together, down for whatever and whenever.
Overall, "Whatever" is a gritty and introspective song that paints a bleak picture of life in the ghetto, but also speaks to the strength and resilience of those who survive it.
Line by Line Meaning
I think of sometime
Repeating this phrase throughout the song, Masta Killa reflects on thoughts and memories of his life and surroundings.
I see him Killa blast on 'em, never yo
Masta Killa is warning that if anyone tries to mess with him, he will retaliate and take them down. He doesn't fear anyone.
I got the drop on you, don't flinch
He has the upper hand and knows what's up. The other person shouldn't make any sudden movements or they will face the consequences.
Pop niggaz like John Lynch
Masta Killa is comparing himself to NFL player John Lynch, known for taking down his opponents. He has the power to take down anyone who confronts him.
Leave niggaz in they own stench
If anyone crosses Masta Killa, they will be left to deal with their own consequences and regret.
I'mma light drinker, heavy smoker
Masta Killa is not much of a drinker but likes to smoke. This can be interpreted as a reference to his lifestyle or his personality.
Known for duckin' show promoters
Masta Killa does what he wants and doesn't like following rules or authority, even if that means dodging show promoters and not playing by the industry's rules.
Pass the money, over, my whole crew is ex-cons
Masta Killa's crew consists of ex-convicts who know how to hustle and make money, and they will not let anyone stand in their way.
Be alarmed, when you hear the err-urrrrr
Masta Killa is warning everyone to be on alert when they hear the sound of the Wu-Tang, as they are not to be messed with.
It's on, Silverback niggaz under the stairs
Masta Killa is referring to his crew as Silverback niggaz, powerful and dangerous individuals who are always lurking and waiting for the right moment.
When we link up, we travel in pairs
Masta Killa's crew moves in pairs, always making sure that no one is left alone or vulnerable.
Ya'll niggaz best to beware of the most thoroughest
Masta Killa is the most thorough and dangerous person around, and anyone who crosses him is putting themselves in serious danger.
Cover all aspects, four corners
Masta Killa's crew covers all aspects of a situation, making sure they know what is happening in all four corners of the space they are in.
You can't creep up on us
No one can sneak up on Masta Killa's crew - they always know what's happening and are ready for any threat.
I'm takin' one for the team, deal me in
Masta Killa is not afraid to take risks or face danger for the sake of his crew or their goals.
And when the smoke clears, do it again
Masta Killa isn't afraid to keep taking risks and facing danger, even if he's already been in situations where the smoke has cleared.
This ain't a side show, you can die slow
Masta Killa's work is serious and not a game - anyone who messes with him will suffer the consequences and face death.
There's no I in team, we all ride yo!
Masta Killa values teamwork and knows that they are stronger together. They will stand up for each other and ride together no matter what.
The Masta brought the ceremony, this is my testament
Masta Killa's music and work is his legacy and a testament to his life and experiences.
Homicide Housing, that's what I represent
Masta Killa represents his past and present experiences living in the projects, including violence and danger.
Criminal gun play, chemical dream to P.J.'s
Masta Killa references the violence and drug use in the projects he grew up in, including gun violence and drug addiction.
Last raid, another fed paid, bed rum: Sunday
Police raids are a common occurrence, and Masta Killa references one where a federal agent was involved. Bed rum is likely a reference to rum consumed on Sundays.
The world dyin' for the love of money
Masta Killa critiques the greed and corruption present in the world, where people will do whatever it takes for money.
Expensive chains, intensive pain from that cocaine
People's greed and desire for material possessions, including expensive chains, leads to the pain and destruction caused by drugs, particularly cocaine.
Condition the brain, children in strain, as I look back
The effects of drug addiction and poverty are evident in the younger generation, and Masta Killa reflects on that as he looks back on his life and experiences.
Memory lane, civil and plain, it be in fame
As Masta Killa reflects, he longs for a simpler, less violent time in his past. Through his music, he has gained fame that he didn't have growing up.
A major part of the game, chemistry grain
Drug trafficking and addiction is a major part of life in the projects, and it is a game with its own rules and consequences.
Foolish kids ran when I came
Masta Killa's presence and reputation in the projects was enough to make foolish kids run and avoid trouble.
Forty acres, five percent of terrain
The references to land and acreage are unclear, but may be related to ownership and control. The five percent may be a reference to the 5% Nation.
Spark right through my vein tunnel, aim through this jungle of rain
Masta Killa acknowledges the power and effects of drugs, and compares the feeling of the drug to a spark in his veins. He navigates through a difficult, challenging environment.
A lot of haters wanna see us hang
Masta Killa and his crew have enemies who want to see them fail or get in trouble.
But watch me bang as in Eagle/Crane
Despite their enemies, Masta Killa will rise above and continue doing what he does best, like an eagle or crane spreading its wings.
Step back, shatter your frame
Anyone who steps to Masta Killa or his crew will be left broken and defeated.
Another victim in the system where he barely sustained
The system is set up to prey on people and leave them barely able to sustain themselves. Many are victims of this system.
Forkin' in, I sold a million way, his first campaign
Masta Killa has made money through his music and reveals that he has sold a million copies of his album. His first campaign was his entrance into the music industry.
Sippin' rosemary cherry champagne, nigga
Masta Killa enjoys his wealth and enjoys the finer things in life, like sipping rosemary cherry champagne.
The young and the dangerous, water on the wrist, ice cryst'
Masta Killa and his crew are young and dangerous, not to be messed with. They show off their wealth and success through expensive jewelry.
Talk with a lisp, then I be top of your list
Masta Killa is confident in his abilities and warns that anyone who talks with a lisp will quickly become a target and he will rise to the top of their list.
Check the Words from the Genius, that was written in pen
Masta Killa references his Wu-Tang member the Genius (also known as GZA) and emphasizes that their words are written down and meant to be taken seriously.
Murder gloves, hide the fingerprint, but never the sin
Masta Killa references hiding fingerprints as a way to get away with murder, but emphasizes that the sin remains and will have consequences.
Ghetto prophet that's born to quote
Masta Killa sees himself as a prophet of the ghetto, born to share his message and experiences with others through music.
Got the crimies, behind me, with the face on stroke
Masta Killa has the support of his crew, who are skilled at committing crimes and have the 'face on stroke' - an intimidating, serious expression.
Don't provoke, trust son, that thing bust, and we roll dangerous
Masta Killa warns that it's not a good idea to provoke his crew, as they will take action quickly and are known to be dangerous.
Who can handle us, when we rush the clubs on thrust
Masta Killa's crew is unstoppable and impossible to handle when they enter the clubs and party with their signature energy and thrust.
Yo, don't miss the lead vocalist, terrorist
Masta Killa is making a statement - don't forget the lead vocalist, who can be just as much of a terror as any other member of the crew.
Wu-Tang, a pure danger, the God hold a fort
Masta Killa represents Wu-Tang Clan, known for their ferocity and danger. He is one of their most powerful members.
Teach law, universal, beat down, my stomping ground
Masta Killa represents the teachings of the 5% Nation and the universal laws that bind all humans. He dominates his own territory.
We hold courts in the streets of New York
Masta Killa and his crew are in charge of their own courts and laws in the streets of New York, establishing their own sense of order and justice.
Snort the gun powder, eyes stay red like fire
Masta Killa references gun powder as a drug, and acknowledges the bloodshot eyes from drug use.
Cut the mic wire, hit a love ballad note
Masta Killa can switch from ferocious to smooth, and cut the mic wire to change the tone and switch to a different style.
Pen stroke, beautiful quote, for you to deep throat
Masta Killa writes beautiful lyrics that have deeper meanings and that listeners should truly contemplate and internalize.
Ghetto life had to rough up in the housing
Growing up in the projects was tough and shaped who Masta Killa is today.
They only make 'em us, every twenty five thousand
There are limited opportunities for success in the projects, and they have to work hard and fight for them. There is only a limited number of success stories.
We all in this together, forever and ever
Masta Killa's crew is a family, committed to each other for life.
Down for whatever, whenever, yeah, yeah
They will do anything and everything for each other and are always ready to take on whatever challenges come their way.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: LISA A DREW, SHAYE SMITH
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind