Method Man spent a childhood split between separated parents in Long Island and Staten Island, and in an apparent precursor to his career in hip hop was introduced both to playing drums and to poetry by his father. Not only was Method interested in music, he was also fascinated by comic books and particularly Ghost Rider, a fascination which manifested itself years later in several of his many rap aliases. His pre-hip hop adult life was mostly split between drug dealing and low-paid jobs (including a stint working at the Statue of Liberty, along with future Wu-Tang colleague U-God). After becoming well known on the streets for his rhyming abilities, he joined with 8 friends to form the Wu-Tang Clan in the early 1992.
Since the Wu-Tang Clan's ascendancy to hip hop stardom, Method Man has always been one of the most visible members of the collective. He was one of only two of the group to get a solo song on the group's debut album Enter the Wu-Tang: 36 Chambers and he was the first to release a solo album under the Clan's unusual contract which allows its members to release albums under any record label (Method chose to sign with legendary rap label Def Jam). Method Man's solo debut, Tical (1994) was critically acclaimed and extremely popular, entering the American charts at #4 and eventually selling in excess of one million copies.
He soon collaborated with Mary J. Blige and Redman with a series of hit singles, one of which (the Blige duet "I'll Be There For You/You're All I Need To Get By") won a Grammy, before recording the second Wu-Tang album, Wu-Tang Forever.
His second solo album was Tical 2000: Judgement Day (1998), which was heavily influenced by the apocalypse theories surrounding the forthcoming end of the millennium, and which featured a vast amount of guest appearances, from his fellow Clansmen to Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, D'Angelo, Chris Rock, Mobb Deep, Redman and even Donald Trump. The album sold even better than his first, though reviews were mixed and its long running time and the abundance of between-song comedy skits were criticised by many.
Method Man then toured with Jay-Z and recorded Blackout! with Redman, a light-hearted, fun record with an EPMD-evoking emphasis on funky beats and the mischievous wit and cool flows of the two MCs.
In the twenty-first century, Method Man forged a successful career in acting. As well as his 1998 appearance in the film Belly along with fellow rappers Nas and DMX, Method has also appeared in 187 Oz, How High (a stoner film with Redman), The Wire, My Baby's Daddy, Garden State and Soul Plane, while continuing to record with the Wu-Tang Clan. He also co-starred with Redman in his own Fox sitcom called Method & Red, however after only a short time on the air the show was put on hiatus and never returned. Method Man later complained in the press about Fox's influence on the show's style, claiming that "there's been too much compromise on our side and not enough on their side" and bemoaning the network's decision to add a laugh track.
In 2004, Meth released his third album Tical 0: The Prequel, which spawned a successful single in "What's Happenin" with Busta Rhymes, but was poorly received both by critics and fans. There was trouble even before the album's release when Method apparently complained to the press about excessive interference from Def Jam over the album's beats (Meth supposedly desired more input from Wu-Tang leader RZA). On its release, many fans and critics were taken aback by its strong "mainstream" or "commercial" sound, highlighted by the guest appearances of pop-rap stars of the time Missy Elliot, P. Diddy and Ludacris. However, the album sold reasonably well, selling more than any of the other Wu-Tang solo projects released at around the same time. There was good news in early 2005 for fans who were disappointed with The Prequel as Method Man announced that a new RZA-produced album would be released later in the year. The album ultimately never materialized in 2005, though RZA and Meth continue to work on the album and are now aiming for a mid-2006 release date.
Aliases
Big John Stud
The Ghost Rider (from the comic Ghost Rider)
Hot Nickelz
Hot Nixon
Iron Lung
John-John
Johnny Blaze (from the comic Ghost Rider)
Johnny Dangerous
John-John Blaizini
Methtical (Meth-tical)
Meth
Mr. Meth
MZA ("The Mizza")
The Panty Raider
Shakwon (5% Nation "righteous name")
Tical
Ticallion Stallion
Albums
1994 Tical (Platinum)
1998 Tical 2000: Judgement Day (Platinum)
1999 Blackout! (with Redman) (Platinum)
2004 Tical 0: The Prequel
2006 4:21 The Day After
2009 Blackout! 2 (with Redman)
Singles and EPs
1994 "Bring The Pain"
1995 "I'll Be There For You/You're All I Need To Get By" (with Mary J. Blige)
1995 "Release Yo' Delf"
1998 "Break Ups 2 Make Ups"
1998 "Judgement Day"'
1998 "Grand Finale" (with DMX, Nas & Ja Rule)
1999 "Tear It Off" (Method Man & Redman)
1999 "Da Rockwilder" (Method Man & Redman)
1999 "Y.O.U." (Method Man & Redman)
2004 "What's Happenin" (with Busta Rhymes)
2005 "The Show"
Appears On
1993 Enter the Wu-Tang: 36 Chambers (album by the Wu-Tang Clan)
1994 "The What" (from the The Notorious B.I.G. album Ready to Die)
1995 "Dirty Dancin" (from the Ol' Dirty Bastard album Return To The 36 Chambers: The Dirty Version)
1995 "Got The Flava" (from the Showbiz & AG album Goodfellas)
1995 "Wu-Gambinos" & "Ice Cream" (from the Raekwon album Only Built 4 Cuban Linx)
1995 "Living In The World Today", "Shadowboxin" & "Gold" (from the GZA album Liquid Swords)
1995 "The Riddler" (from the Batman Forever Soundtrack)
1996 "Box In Hand" (from the Ghostface Killah album Ironman)
1996 "Box In Hand (Remix)" (Ghostface Killah single)
1996 "Got My Mind Made Up" (from the 2Pac album All Eyez On Me)
1996 "Do What Ya Feel" (from the Redman album Muddy Waters)
1996 "Extortion" (from the Mobb Deep album Hell On Earth)
1996 "Hit 'Em High" (from the Space Jam soundtrack)
1997 Wu-Tang Forever (album by the Wu-Tang Clan)
1997 "Milk The Cow", "Supa Ninjaz" & "Dart Throwing" (from the Cappadonna album The Pillage)
1997 "Next Up" & "Collaboration 98" (from the Sunz Of Man album The Last Shall Be First)
1997 "4,3,2,1" (from the LL Cool J album Phenonemon)
1998 "Well All Rite Cha" (from the Redman album Doc's Da Name 2000)
1998 "Pussy Pop" (from the Xzibit album 40 Dayz & 40 Nightz)
1998 "Whatcha Gonna Do" (from the Jayo Felony album Whatcha Gonna Do)
1998 "The Worst" (from the Onyx album Shut 'Em Down)
1999 "Rumble" (from the U-God album The Golden Arms Redemption)
1999 "Am I My Brother's Keeper" (from the Shyheim album Manchild)
1999 "Fuck Them" (from the Raekwon album Immobilarity)
1999 "Left & Right" (from the D'Angelo album Voodoo)
1999 "Stringplay" (from the GZA album Beneath The Surface)
1999 "N 2 Gether Now" (from the Limp Bizkit album Significant Other)
1999 "Half Man Half Amazin" (from the Pete Rock album Soul Survivor)
1999 "Three Amigos (If It's On)" (from the Popa Wu album Visions Of The Tenth Chamber)
1999 "NYC Everything" (from the RZA album Bobby Digital In Stereo)
1999 "Simon Says (Remix)" (from the Pharoahe Monch album Internal Affairs)
2000 "Buck 50" (from the Ghostface Killah album Supreme Clientele)
2000 "Fuhgidabowdit" (from the LL Cool J album G.O.A.T.)
2000 "Rollin' (Urban Assault Vehicle)" (from the Limp Bizkit album Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavored Water)
2000 The W (album by the Wu-Tang Clan)
2000 "Ghetto Celebrity" (from the album In The Mode by Roni Size & Reprazent
2001 "La Rhumba" & "Glocko Pop" (from the RZA album Digital Bullet)
2001 "Enjoy Da Ride" (from the Redman album Malpractice)
2001 "Dog In Heat" (from the Missy Elliott album Miss E...So Addictive)
2001 "Party & Bullshit" (from the Rush Hour 2 soundtrack)
2001 Iron Flag (album by the Wu-Tang Clan)
2001 "Red Meth And Bee" (from the Cypress Hill album Stoned Raiders)
2002 "Flowers" (from the Ghostface Killah album Bulletproof Wallets)
2003 "Respect Mine" (from the Mathematics album Love, Hell Or Right)
2003 "Love @ 1st Sight" (from the Mary J. Blige album Love & Life)
2003 "We Pop (Remix)" (RZA single)
2003 "Bring The Pain" (from the Missy Elliott album This Is Not A Test!)
2003 "Ice Cream Part 2" (from the Raekwon album Lex Diamonds Story)
2003 "Noble Art" (from the IAM album Revoir Un Printemps)
2003 "Rock 'N' Roll" (from the Naughty By Nature album Icons)
2004 "Secret Rivals" (from the Masta Killa album No Said Date)
2004 "The Drummer" (from the Theodore Unit album 718)
2004 Disciples of the 36 Chambers: Chapter 1 (album by the Wu-Tang Clan)
2005 "Head Rush", "John 3:16" & "Spot Lite" (from the Mathematics album The Problem)
2005 "All My Niggas", "Shoot On Sight (S.O S.)" & "Street Education" (from the Streetlife album Street Education)
2005 "High Rollers" (from the Proof album Searching for Jerry Garcia)
2005 "Still On It" (from the Ashanti album Collectables by Ashanti)
2006 "9 Milli Bros." (from the Ghostface Killah album Fishscale)
Problem
Method Man Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
You don't want no problems, problems
Yeah, real man, with yo stinkin' ass
Come on, that's my nigga right there, let's do it
Never count me out, nigga, just count me in, yeah
Look, I ain't came to bone these chicks
Not this time, I got a bone to pick, I got a zone to pimp
Back in the building like he own the bitch, nobody cold as this
If I ain't got it, then it don't exist
I spit that bird flu, my flows is sick, I'm still as ill as they come
Protect Ya Neck, when you dealing with them
Now Erick stick a fork in him, he done, hah
It boggles the mind, like try'nna ketchup to a bottle of Heinz
It's like forensics try'nna follow the crime, they want time
And sometime, a nigga had to swallow them dimes
While eighty five percent swallowing swine, see
Wherever he roam, it's all gravy, man, whatever he hone
Long as I got myself I'm never alone, feel even better with chrome
If there's a problem, nigga, let it be known
And while I sleep, my bitch be checkin' my phone, 'cause I'm a problem, nigga
Ease up, or put them g's up
Scream at ya frog, nigga leap up (now who got a problem with that?)
They need to beast up, need to speak up or
Forever hold they peace up (if they got a problem with that)
Hey you (don't want no problem nigga) hey you (don't want no problem nigga)
Hey you (don't want no problem nigga) hey you (don't want no problem nigga)
Hey you (believe, what I say, when I tell ya)
Yeah, you, nigga, you don't want no problem with that
Look, my Clan all one in the same
Until my name number one in the game, it's not a game, nigga
Like Billy Danze, I be running with Fame
Me and my lynch mob coming to hang, it's Wu-Tang for life
Hard body, another day in the life
Credit his momma now for raising him right, just want the people to know
I'm bout to blow, like I'm shaking the dice
Making me mad? Nah, y'all making me right, 'cause y'all was taking me light
So let my pen talk and say what he like
And have the court system say and indict, I'm O.J. on the mic
Liquid plumber, I be laying the pipe
And if it's tight, girl, I'm staying tonight
Not only raising on the price, on M.C.'ing, but I'm raising the bar
And if you scary, nigga, wait in the car
Motherfuckers I'm hard, hard as cooked up in mayonnaise jars
Purple haze, Cuban made cigars, I'm a problem, nigga
Ease up, or put them g's up
Scream at ya frog, nigga leap up (now who got a problem with that?)
They need to beast up, need to speak up or
Forever hold they peace up (if they got a problem with that)
Hey you (don't want no problem nigga) hey you (don't want no problem nigga)
Hey you (don't want no problem nigga) hey you (don't want no problem nigga)
Hey you (believe, what I say, when I tell ya)
Yeah, you, nigga, you don't want no problem with that
E, you know I'm just like that
Big baller nigga, just like Shaq, so come on, niggas
If they bust, I better bust right back
Meth spit it from the gut, like man down
I'm that dude, hands down, stare down
I'm past due, for Cash Rule, y'all can't clown
I'm bank now, your ass lose, nothing but rhyme
New York Times, I'm bad news, and I'ma problem, nigga
Ease up, or put them g's up
Scream at ya frog, nigga leap up (now who got a problem with that?)
They need to beast up, need to speak up or
Forever hold they peace up (if they got a problem with that)
Hey you (don't want no problem nigga) hey you (don't want no problem nigga)
Hey you (don't want no problem nigga) hey you (don't want no problem nigga)
Hey you (believe, what I say, when I tell ya)
Yeah, you, nigga, you don't want no problem with that
Ease up, or put them g's up
Scream at ya frog, nigga leap up (now who got a problem with that?)
They need to beast up, need to speak up or
Forever hold they peace up (if they got a problem with that)
Hey you (don't want no problem nigga) hey you (don't want no problem nigga)
Hey you (don't want no problem nigga) hey you (don't want no problem nigga)
Hey you (believe, what I say, when I tell ya)
Yeah, you, nigga, you don't want no problem with that
In the song "Problem" by Method Man, the lyrics convey a sense of confidence and swagger as he asserts his dominance in the rap game. He begins by warning his rivals, "You don't want no problems," implying that he is not one to be messed with. He boasts about his skills as a rapper, saying that he is "still as ill as they come" and that his flows are sick. He also addresses his detractors, saying that they were "taking him light" and that he is now "raising the bar" for MCs everywhere.
Method Man also makes references to other rappers and songs throughout the lyrics. He mentions the Wu-Tang Clan, of which he is a member, and says that they are "all one in the same." He also name-drops Billy Danze and his hip-hop group M.O.P. He even references the famous O.J. Simpson trial, claiming that he is "O.J. on the mic."
Overall, "Problem" is a bravado-filled track that showcases Method Man's lyrical prowess and ability to intimidate his rivals. The song features a catchy chorus that repeats the line "you don't want no problems," emphasizing the central message of the song.
Line by Line Meaning
You don't want no problems, problems
This warning is not to be taken lightly, as I have the ability to create and resolve problems as I see fit.
Yeah, real man, with ya stinkin' ass
You may have confidence, but your negative energy is evident to all those around you.
Never count me out, nigga, just count me in, yeah,
I will always be present and ready to participate, regardless of whether or not I am actively involved at any given moment.
Look, I ain't came to bone these chicks
I have not come here to pursue sexual relations with women.
Not this time, I got a bone to pick, I got a zone to pick
However, my current mindset is not focused on sex; instead, there are issues that require my attention and action.
Now, who that nigga in the zone and shit
I am the person currently in control of the situation, with a clear advantage over others.
Back in the building like he own the bitch,
I am back in control of the situation, as if I never left.
nobody cold as this
No one else has the same level of confidence or control as I do.
If I ain't got it, then it don't exist
If I do not possess something, it is simply not worth acknowledging or existing.
I spit that bird flu, my flows is sick, I'm still as ill as they come
My lyricism is contagious and deadly, and I am still recognized as an artist at the top of my game.
Protect Ya Neck, when you dealing with them
It is important to be cautious when dealing with me, as I will not hesitate to retaliate if necessary.
It boggles the mind, like try'nna 'ketchup' to a bottle of Heinz
My level of control and intelligence is difficult to comprehend, as it is like attempting to catch up with a quick-moving bottle of ketchup.
It's like forensics try'nna follow the crime, they want time
My actions and decisions are meticulous and difficult to trace, causing those who seek to uncover them to put in a significant amount of time and effort.
And sometime, a nigga had to swallow them dimes
Occasionally, I have had to hide or consume illegal substances.
While eighty five percent swallowing swine, see
This was especially true during times when many people were consuming pork and other unclean foods.
Wherever he roam, it's all gravy, man, whatever he hone
I am able to navigate through different environments with ease and comfort, adapting to my surroundings.
Long as I got myself a Marilyn loan, phillies are better chrome
As long as I have a Marilyn Monroe picture and a pack of Phillies cigars, I am content with my surroundings.
If there's a problem, nigga, let it be known
If there are any issues or conflicts, they must be communicated clearly and directly.
And while I sleep, my bitch be checkin' my phone, cause I'm a problem, nigga
Even when I am asleep, my significant other feels the need to check my phone and interactions, as my reputation as a problem-causer and troublemaker has caused concern among those closest to me.
[Chorus] Ease up, or put them g's up
Either calm down and back off, or prepare for a real battle.
Scream at ya frog, nigga leap up (now who got a problem with that?)
If you provoke me, I will not hesitate to attack, so be cautious in your actions.
They need to beast up, nigga, speak up or
Those who disagree with me or have an issue must speak up and state their concerns directly.
Forever hold they peace up (if they got a problem with that)
If anyone has problems with my actions or behavior, they must keep their opinions to themselves and can choose to not associate with me.
Hey you (don't want no problem nigga) Hey you (don't want no problem nigga)
I have warned individuals several times that they do not want to become associated with the problems I can cause.
Hey you (don't want no problem nigga) Hey you (don't want no problem nigga)
I will continue to warn people who seek to challenge or provoke me, as they will quickly realize that they do not want to deal with any problems I can stir up.
Hey you ("Believe, what I say, when I tell ya" - DMX sample)
I have a strong presence and influence over those around me, as they generally take what I say as truth and wisdom.
Yeah, you, nigga, you don't want no problem with that
I have identified that a specific individual should not mess with me or challenge my power and influence.
Look, my Clan all one in the same
My group is unified and cohesive, with everyone on the same page and working towards a common goal.
Until my name number one in the game, it's not a game, nigga
I will not stop until I have achieved the highest level of success and recognition in the industry, and no one should doubt or question my motives.
Like Billy Danze, I be running with "Fame"
Similar to Billy Danze, I am associated with a reputation of being well-known and well-respected in my industry.
Me and my lynch mob coming to hang, it's Wu-Tang for life
My group and I are unified and strong, working together to succeed and achieve our goals, similar to the legendary hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan.
Hard body, another day in the life
I am tough, resilient, and face adversity with tenacity and strength, making every day just another part of my journey.
Credit his momma now for raising him right, just want the people to know
I acknowledge my upbringing and the values instilled in me by my mother, as it has had a positive impact on my personal and professional life and I want others to be aware of this.
I'm bout to blow, like I'm shaking the dice
I am on the verge of reaching the pinnacle of my career, as if I am rolling the dice and hitting the jackpot.
Making me mad? Nah, y'all making me right, cause y'all was taking me light
My detractors and opponents have actually helped to motivate me and propel me towards success, as their past actions of underestimating me have now proven to be incorrect.
So let my pen talk and say what he like
I will let my writing and artistic expression speak for itself, and confidently deliver my messages without fear of any consequences or criticism.
And have the court system say and indict, I'm O.J. on the mic
I am so confident in my abilities and reputation that I feel I am invincible, even on the level of famous celebrities like O.J. Simpson.
Liquid plumber, I be laying the pipe
Similar to a plumber, I am able to do my job effectively and efficiently, making my way through difficult situations and obstacles with ease.
And if it's tight, girl, I'm staying tonight
If a situation or opportunity is favorable for me, I will take advantage of it and push for more in the moment.
Not only raising on the price, on M.C.'ing, but I'm raising the bar
Not only am I raising my fees and asking price, but I am also constantly improving and setting new standards and expectations for the craft of MCing.
And if you scary, nigga, wait in the car
If someone is hesitant, unsure, or fearful, they should not participate in whatever challenge or task is being presented and should wait outside or in a safe area.
Motherfuckers I'm hard, hard as cooked up in mayonnaise jars
I am tough and will not hesitate to fight or cause problems, as I am hardened and resistant to any challenges or struggles presented to me, much like the solidified contents in a jar of mayonnaise.
Purple haze, Cuban laid cigars, I'm a problem, nigga
I am a force to be reckoned with, as evidenced by my luxurious lifestyle and affinity for rare or high-quality items such as Cuban cigars and high-grade marijuana strains.
[Chorus]
This refrain emphasizes the idea that individuals should avoid problems with me at all costs, as I have proven to be a formidable force that will not hesitate to act when necessary.
E, you know I'm just like that
My associates know and accept me for who I am, including my confidence and tendency to become aggressive if provoked.
Big baller nigga, just like Shaq, so come on, niggaz
I have the same level of confidence and influence as a notable athlete like Shaquille O'Neal, and am not afraid of any challenge presented to me.
If they bust, I better bust right back
If someone attacks me, I will not hesitate to retaliate and fight back with full force and aggression.
Meth spit it from the gut, like *gunshot* man down
I deliver my lyrics with passion and intensity, as if firing a gunshot from my gut or innermost being.
I'm that dude, hands down, stare down
I am the most confident and powerful person in the room, with no one who can match my level of control or influence.
I'm past due, for Cash Rule, y'all can't clown
I am overdue for the success and recognition I deserve, and no one should attempt to mock or belittle me or my abilities.
I'm bank now, your ass lose, nothing but rhyme
I am successful and wealthy, with others unable to keep up with me or compete on my level. The only thing that matters in the end is my artistic ability and talent for writing lyrics.
New York Times, I'm bad news, and I'ma problem, nigga
I am recognized and respected by major media publications, and am known to be a formidable and dangerous individual who will cause problems for my enemies.
[Chorus:Repeat x2]
This final refrain emphasizes the fact that I am not to be messed with, and that those who attempt to create problems with me will face a swift and aggressive response.
Lyrics Β© Universal Music Publishing Group, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Erick S. Sermon, Clifford M Smith, Ineffie Woods
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@marcosmedina1113
Spotify is missing this song, thank goodness for YouTube π
@r0nl690
Facts I was heated
@prestonbrady5301
Only reason im here
@hennythingispossible11
Same ...i was so pissed
@jonagro558
Real rap bro thatβs why Iβm here too Iβm like whatβs going on this track π₯π₯ why is it missing π€¦ββοΈ
@Krafty
I have no idea why the fuck they playin like that
@wmoraesrecargas1056
Essa é clÑssica não envelhece nunca . Salve Method Man vulgo Jonhy Blaze Abraços do Brazil.
@mlgblunts6759
This one goes so hard. Both the beat and the lyrics are on fucking point. Johnny Blazeeee
@SkrollieOllie
Why tf is this and "Walk on" not on Spotify? What thee actual fuckk
@turtle7484
Method man the shit, deserves more likes, views, and all that good shit