Basic Instinct
Nipsey Hussle Lyrics

Late night niggas at the Shell deep
Late at night, a group of individuals gather at the Shell gas station, venturing into dangerous activities.

Bird out, gang signs, to the pale beast
They flaunt their affiliation with hand gestures and bravado towards the police, who are seen as a symbol of oppression.

Big guns, long clips and they well greased
Armed with powerful weapons and fully prepared for any violent encounter, they ensure their equipment is in optimal condition.

Black woman on my 20 dollar bill crease
The rapper proudly carries a twenty-dollar bill with a crease, showing respect for Harriet Tubman and the representation of black women on currency.

Head shot, man down in the ville, sheesh
A fatal gunshot to the head leads to a man's demise in their neighborhood, evoking a mixture of shock and surprise.

Enemies, MC's will get swiss cheesed
Any opponents or rival rappers will suffer multiple gunshot wounds, resembling holes in Swiss cheese, indicating a brutal and ruthless approach.

Double back, 10 minutes made a big scene
They return to the scene of the crime after a brief absence, causing a significant disturbance and attracting attention.

Bullets start flying by a nigga/That's a sick breeze
Gunfire erupts near the artist, creating a chilling sensation akin to a malicious gust of wind.

While I'm here, take a pic please
In the midst of this dangerous lifestyle, the rapper requests someone to capture a photograph as a way of documenting his presence and legacy.

You know legends die young/Rest in peace Prince and Pimp C
Acknowledging the premature deaths of influential figures like Prince and Pimp C, highlighting the concept that great talents often meet tragic fates.

From the block to the big/Leagues, self made millionaire
Transitioning from humble origins in a neighborhood to achieving significant success in mainstream society, amassing wealth through his own efforts.

White America ain't pimp me
Rejecting the notion that his success is dependent on manipulation or exploitation by white America, asserting his independence and self-determination.

Don't tell me that it's skin deep
Rejecting the idea that his worth or character can be superficially judged based on his appearance, particularly his skin color.

Don't tell me that I'm tripping
Refusing to accept that he is mistaken or delusional in his beliefs or actions.

Only listening to my instincts
Choosing to rely solely on his intuition and gut feelings as a guiding force in decision-making and navigating life.

Step back for the increase
To make progress and achieve growth, one must occasionally take a step back from the immediate circumstances or conflicts.

Hussle ain't got it mapped/Out? Don't offend me
The rapper, Nipsey Hussle, doesn't have a clear plan or path to success, but he is not offended if someone suggests he does not have it all figured out.

Late night, niggas out on 109th deep
Late at night, a group of individuals roam the streets of 109th Street, fully immersed in their surroundings.

Choppers out 'case a nigga tryna come creep
They carry firearms, prepared to defend themselves if someone attempts to approach them in a sneaky or suspicious manner.

Bitch tripping cause I'm always/In the street
A woman is upset or concerned about the rapper's frequent presence and involvement in street activities.

Bag of money in a Beemer on the back seat
There is a bag of money located in the back seat of a BMW car, symbolizing wealth and success acquired through their lifestyle.

Bitch, you getting paid or you playing?
The rapper questions whether the woman is genuinely earning money or merely pretending and engaging in deception.

Broke ass niggas always running round hating
Individuals who lack financial stability are constantly behaving with envy and animosity towards those who have achieved success.

See a unknown face/Where you from? Is you banging?
Encountering an unfamiliar person, they inquire about their neighborhood affiliation and involvement in gang activities.

Heard your name before, you/That nigga making statements, Uh
Having previous knowledge about this person, they suspect that he is providing information or cooperating with law enforcement, making him untrustworthy in their eyes.

So Way Out got gang of niggas/In the cut pointing red dots
The Way Out crew consists of a group of individuals who remain hidden or inconspicuous, ready to target their enemies with laser sights on their firearms.

Lil' skinny ass nigga calling all shots
Despite his small physical stature, a young and thin individual assumes the authoritative role, making important decisions and giving orders.

They send the snitches tryna get/A nigga knocked off, Ah
Enemies intentionally send informants or traitors, attempting to orchestrate a plan to have one of the crew members killed or arrested.

Fuck all cops
Expressing a strong disdain and rejection of law enforcement officers.

To a million dollar spot when I slide off
Escaping to a valuable location worth millions of dollars once he departs or leaves his current setting.

Chuck the deuce in the G when I ride off
As he departs in a luxury vehicle, he casually waves goodbye with a peace sign gesture to his surroundings.

All luxury shit for a young boss
Indulging in high-end and extravagant items befitting of a youthful, successful entrepreneur.