The Outrage
People Under the Stairs Lyrics


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P... It′s that Los Angeles life, c'mon... see a show... it′s not...
Eh, I don't know, man... not dope... guys...
Talk a lot of doo-doo on the internet about...
Make it out to the streets once and a while...

The two-track electrical, medical metal-made
Minimal beat played, freshly made each day
With hands in the crates like kids on cookie plates
The rookies wait, but I won't retire ′til I′m eight tracks
Leaving the tape recorded like Watergate
On the map, like a thumbtack to navigate
High-stakes, I delegate rap to elevate
Delicate my debates with celibate beat tapes
They don't touch, I crush the crutch of personas
Same players in the game claiming that their owners
Are not picked, my life, my music I make on my trip
Something sensitive for the youth like My Dog Skip
And not a little Bow Wow, I rock the rap pow-wow
Kids know the now, they follow me like the Dow
Over piper-pied, making a musical drive-by
On I-5, I slide by, giving a high-five to tie-dyed hippies
Trippy pen-tricks, when I write my class, it′s the shit that hits
Don't ask, it′s none of your business, how I do it
I send a sound wave forward, you pursue it
I knew it when I threw it out, it's moving it through in the cloud
Rocking the crowd, making ′em proud, playing it loud
Slaying the wild beast, not from the East
It's from the West of the beach where I perm and smoke sherm
So take your turn to jock, I walk my block and talk
To local shop owners about 'Pac and whether or not he′s dead
Quickly a critic, catch a bullet to the head, pull it, you′re dead
Looking into the light, go ahead, don't walk back
′Cause if you walk back, I'm cocked back
The black senator strap, and give the trigger a tap
And you′ll be hanging out with Biggie, Jesus, or Roger from Zapp
Take that! Lay flat and lay low or catch a halo
While I move on to another song to collect my peso
Fresh and not clean, in between the bell curve bottom and the mean
I mean, People Under The Stairs, heard not seen, fiend

It's like an outrage when punks step on stage
With the weak show, weak flow, you still get dough
You ain′t as dope as you thought, not as nice as you claim
Get ready for your downfall, it's only a game

It's like an outrage when punks step on stage
With the weak show, weak flow, you still get dough
You ain′t as dope as you thought, not as nice as you claim
Get ready for your downfall, it′s only a game

It's like an outrage when punks step on stage
With the weak show, weak flow, you still get dough
You ain′t as dope as you thought, not as nice as you claim
Get ready for your downfall, it's only a game

Yo, we be flowing against dudes, going against rules
If you thinking we came to lose, sucka, I got news
It′s the P's examiner, cock and then hammer ya
Better run, get protection, the lesson we teach
Something you can′t preach, well, just listen
It's hip hop backed by a couple of young guns
You thinking we talking shit, homie be having fun
Because we been here for a minute, setting it off
Just killing you soft, for a small price, it's nice
About fifteen for the LP, add the tax
You see us on stage and we giving it back
One hundred and forty-nine, plus ten percent
For my peoples in the crowd with the Js all lit
And we the shit you can′t flush, sit there and deal with it
We come too real with it, you say we ill with it
So, why would anybody want to do that? (Hey, do what?)
Diss the P and say the jam was wack
I′mma tell you niggas why y'all talk too much
Ain′t getting no attention, so you steady downing us
But we checking y'all like moms and homework
(Forgot to put your name on top) Watch the beat drop
Like my caddy when I finally get one, I′m on two
Fuck a backpack, big words, man, fuck you!
I heard you tryin' to funk, like, "These niggas is drunk!"
They take theyself too serious (man!), making me furious (man!)
But not enough to start acting (nope!)
Like I′m Larry Fishburne, I sit back and smoke herb
I'm coming in, covered deep, and I got my piece under the seat
For any Oliver mark-ass t'Wang
Call up the homie O-Dub, said "It′s time to bring pain"
Better get started on that farewell e-mail
Tell ′em Double K and Thes One shall prevail
It's the Old School Testament, ready to strike back
To the dugout, so we can party all night
"Slow down, Double K!" is what the people say
I reply "What? I can′t!" 'cause I′m a champ
Like stepping to the Rap-girl's Delight
Make it sunny at night with fresh beats that′s tight




Beats that sound right, everything y'all like
People Under The influence, stealing your bike, punk!

Overall Meaning

The People Under the Stairs song "The Outrage" is a commentary on the state of the hip-hop industry, specifically in Los Angeles. The song criticizes the proliferation of "weak shows" and "weak flow" among new, unskilled performers, who are often hyped up on the internet but fail to deliver when it comes to live performances. The lyrics suggest that these performers are only in it for the money, and not for the love of the art.


The song's lyrics are full of clever wordplay and metaphors that reflect the duo's deep knowledge of and respect for hip-hop. The references to "hands in the crates" and "tape recorded like Watergate" speak to the importance of digging for old vinyl records and honing one's craft through practice and dedication. At the same time, the song also acknowledges the commercial nature of the music industry, with references to "pesos" and "dollars" and the need to "get dough."


Line by Line Meaning

P... It′s that Los Angeles life, c'mon... see a show... it′s not...
This is the portrayal of the vibrant and unique lifestyle in Los Angeles, inviting listeners to experience the live music scene and emphasizing that it's not just an ordinary experience.


Eh, I don't know, man... not dope... guys...
Expressing uncertainty about the quality and authenticity of some performers in the industry, suggesting that they are not as talented or impressive as they claim to be.


Talk a lot of doo-doo on the internet about...
Pointing out the tendency of individuals to engage in meaningless and exaggerated discussions online, especially with regards to the music industry.


Make it out to the streets once and a while...
Encouraging people to venture outside and experience the real world instead of solely relying on online discussions, indicating that true understanding and appreciation of music can be found by immersing oneself in the streets.


The two-track electrical, medical metal-made
Referring to the music production process, highlighting the combination of electronic and live instruments to create a distinctive sound.


Minimal beat played, freshly made each day
Describing the minimalist approach to producing beats, emphasizing the uniqueness and freshness of each creation on a daily basis.


With hands in the crates like kids on cookie plates
Comparing the act of searching for records in crates to the excitement and enthusiasm of children selecting cookies from a plate, conveying the joy of discovering new music.


The rookies wait, but I won't retire ′til I'm eight tracks
Acknowledging the presence of aspiring artists waiting for their opportunity, while asserting the determination to continue creating music until reaching a significant milestone, symbolized by the completion of eight tracks.


Leaving the tape recorded like Watergate
Drawing a parallel between the secretive nature of the Watergate scandal and the artist's intention to leave a lasting impact through recorded music, implying a sense of intrigue and significance.


On the map, like a thumbtack to navigate
Describing the act of gaining recognition and becoming a notable presence in the music industry, like a thumbtack on a map used for navigation.


High-stakes, I delegate rap to elevate
Highlighting the serious nature of the music industry, with the artist accepting the responsibility to uplift the genre through their skillful rapping.


Delicate my debates with celibate beat tapes
Referring to the artist's preference for instrumental beats, emphasizing their dedication to crafting intricate, refined, and celibate (without lyrics) compositions.


They don't touch, I crush the crutch of personas
Asserting superiority over artists who rely on false personas, suggesting that the artist's music is more authentic and genuine.


Same players in the game claiming that their owners
Critiquing the presence of artists who claim ownership of the music industry, implying that they are merely players rather than true influencers or innovators.


Are not picked, my life, my music I make on my trip
Rejecting the notion that the artist depends on others' validation, asserting their individuality and the independence with which they create their life and music journey.


Something sensitive for the youth like My Dog Skip
Creating music that resonates emotionally with younger audiences, comparing it to the sentimental impact of a movie like 'My Dog Skip.'


And not a little Bow Wow, I rock the rap pow-wow
Distinguishing the artist's genuine approach from the more commercial and shallow style represented by artists like Bow Wow, emphasizing the artist's ability to captivate and engage in a rap pow-wow.


Kids know the now, they follow me like the Dow
Highlighting the artist's popularity among young listeners who recognize the current trends, comparing their following to the stock market's Dow Jones index.


Over piper-pied, making a musical drive-by
Conveying the imagery of the artist's music capturing attention and leaving a lasting impact on listeners, likening it to a musical version of a drive-by shooting.


On I-5, I slide by, giving a high-five to tie-dyed hippies
Portraying the artist's presence and movement on the Interstate 5 highway, celebrating the camaraderie with counter-cultural tie-dyed hippies by exchanging high-fives.


Trippy pen-tricks, when I write my class, it's the shit that hits
Referring to the artist's distinctive style of penning lyrics, suggesting that their writing stands out and leaves a lasting impact on the audience.


Don't ask, it's none of your business, how I do it
Declining to provide details or explanations about the artist's creative process, maintaining that it is personal and private information.


I send a sound wave forward, you pursue it
Describing the act of releasing music and the subsequent pursuit by listeners who seek out and engage with the artist's sound waves.


I knew it when I threw it out, it's moving it through in the cloud
Expressing confidence and foresight in the artist's creation and release of music, recognizing its seamless transmission and circulation in the digital realm.


Rocking the crowd, making ′em proud, playing it loud
Enthralling and energizing the audience at live performances, generating a sense of pride and achievement while delivering their music with exuberance and volume.


Slaying the wild beast, not from the East
Metaphorically conquering the challenges and obstacles of the music industry, indicating that the artist is not conforming to mainstream trends or the typical sound from the East Coast.


It's from the West of the beach where I perm and smoke sherm
Identifying the artist's roots in the West Coast, particularly near the beach, where they embrace their unique lifestyle and indulge in certain recreational activities like perming hair and smoking sherm (a type of drug).


So take your turn to jock, I walk my block and talk
Encouraging others to seek their own path and express themselves authentically, while the artist confidently navigates their own neighborhood, engaging in conversations with local shop owners.


To local shop owners about 'Pac and whether or not he's dead
Engaging in discussions with shop owners about the influential rapper Tupac Shakur, exploring the ongoing debate surrounding his death and its impact on the music industry.


Quickly a critic, catch a bullet to the head, pull it, you're dead
Addressing those who are quick to criticize the artist's work, warning them about the potential consequences that come with disrespect, metaphorically suggesting that their words could result in a metaphorical bullet to their head, figuratively ending their credibility.


Looking into the light, go ahead, don't walk back
Encouraging individuals to confront truth and face reality head-on without hesitation or fear, urging them to embrace enlightenment and reject ignorance.


′Cause if you walk back, I'm cocked back
Warning those who retreat or retract their statements that the artist will be prepared to take action in response, like a trigger being pulled back on a firearm.


The black senator strap, and give the trigger a tap
Metaphorically referring to the artist carrying a loaded weapon (black senator strap), signifying their readiness to respond aggressively when provoked.


And you′ll be hanging out with Biggie, Jesus, or Roger from Zapp
Conveying the severity of consequences for those who provoke the artist, humorously suggesting that they will face undesirable company, such as deceased rapper The Notorious B.I.G., religious figure Jesus, or music artist Roger Troutman from the band Zapp.


Take that! Lay flat and lay low or catch a halo
Asserting dominance and warning individuals to back down and disappear from the artist's realm, projecting a no-nonsense attitude and threatening metaphorically to have them meet their demise (catch a halo).


While I move on to another song to collect my peso
Expressing the artist's determination and focus on creating new music, alluding to the desire to generate income (collect my peso) through their craft.


Fresh and not clean, in between the bell curve bottom and the mean
Portraying the artist's style as both unique and rebellious, positioned between the lower end of the bell curve (unconventional) and the average (mean) mainstream sound.


I mean, People Under The Stairs, heard not seen, fiend
Reiterating the identity of the artist, People Under The Stairs, highlighting their preference for a more underground presence and emphasizing that their work should be experienced audibly rather than visually, addressing listeners as fiends who crave their music.


It's like an outrage when punks step on stage
Describing the artist's strong reaction and frustration when witnessing untalented individuals performing live.


With the weak show, weak flow, you still get dough
Expressing disappointment in performers who lack skill and creativity, yet still manage to earn money and be financially successful.


You ain't as dope as you thought, not as nice as you claim
Challenging artists who believe they are highly skilled, suggesting that they are not as impressive or talented as they perceive themselves to be.


Get ready for your downfall, it's only a game
Warning these artists to prepare for their inevitable failure and decline within the music industry, emphasizing that it is just a transient game.


Yo, we be flowing against dudes, going against rules
Asserting the artist's commitment to challenging the norms and defying conventional expectations by producing distinctive and boundary-breaking music.


If you thinking we came to lose, sucka, I got news
Addressing those who underestimate the artist's determination, confidence, and winning mentality, emphasizing that they are in for a surprise.


It's the P's examiner, cock and then hammer ya
Referring to the artist as someone who scrutinizes and assesses the skills of others, figuratively suggesting that they will expose and overpower their opponents.


Better run, get protection, the lesson we teach
Advising those who oppose or challenge the artist to seek protection because they are about to impart a lesson through their lyrical prowess.


Something you can't preach, well, just listen
Implying that the artist's message and wisdom cannot be preached or taught conventionally but should simply be absorbed and understood by actively listening to their music.


It's hip hop backed by a couple of young guns
Asserting that the artist's music represents authentic hip-hop, supported by the enthusiasm, energy, and talent of two young individuals.


You thinking we talking shit, homie be having fun
Addressing the perception of some listeners who may interpret the artist's bold statements as mere arrogance, asserting that they are actually enjoying themselves and expressing their confidence playfully.


Because we been here for a minute, setting it off
Highlighting the artist's longevity and presence in the music industry, signifying their ability to initiate and ignite change and innovation.


Just killing you soft, for a small price, it's nice
Metaphorically suggesting that the artist effortlessly outshines and dominates their opponents, alluding to the satisfaction derived from their superiority.


About fifteen for the LP, add the tax
Referring to the cost of purchasing their LP (album), indicating that it is reasonably priced, and advising listeners to factor in additional taxes.


You see us on stage and we giving it back
When the audience witnesses the artist performing live, they reciprocate the energy and enthusiasm, metaphorically 'giving it back' in terms of support and appreciation.


One hundred and forty-nine, plus ten percent
Revealing the price of something associated with the artist, stating the amount of $149 plus a ten percent increase, possibly alluding to merchandise or concert tickets.


For my peoples in the crowd with the Js all lit
Acknowledging and showing appreciation for the individuals in the crowd who are wearing Air Jordan sneakers, implying they are true fans.


And we the shit you can't flush, sit there and deal with it
Asserting the artist's excellence and irremovable presence, emphasizing that they cannot be easily dismissed or ignored, suggesting that others have to accept it.


We come too real with it, you say we ill with it
Highlighting the artist's authenticity and genuine approach to their craft, which some may interpret as being ill or exceptional.


So, why would anybody want to do that? (Hey, do what?)
Posing a rhetorical question, questioning why anyone would want to imitate or replicate the artist's style or approach.


Diss the P and say the jam was wack
Addressing individuals who disrespect the artist (The P) and criticize their music, particularly claiming that their songs are subpar or unimpressive.


I′mma tell you niggas why y'all talk too much
Asserting the artist's intention to explain and expose the excessive talking and unnecessary chatter of those who criticize or undermine their work.


Ain′t getting no attention, so you steady downing us
Observing that these individuals resort to insulting or belittling the artist because they themselves are not receiving adequate attention or recognition.


But we checking y'all like moms and homework
Comparing the artist's scrutiny and assessment of such individuals to a mother meticulously checking her child's homework, highlighting the thoroughness and importance of their judgment.


(Forgot to put your name on top) Watch the beat drop
Mockingly referencing the forgetfulness of those who fail to assert their identity or significance, advising them to pay attention and witness the artist's beat drop (powerful musical element).


Like my caddy when I finally get one, I'm on two
Drawing a parallel between the artist's excitement and readiness to own a Cadillac car (caddy) and their determination to take things to the next level, figuratively representing the artist's ambition and progression.


Fuck a backpack, big words, man, fuck you!
Rejecting the stereotype of being a backpack rapper (intellectual and lyrically focused) and dismissing the notion that using big words is necessary, incorporating a sense of rebelliousness and defiance.


I heard you tryin' to funk, like, 'These niggas is drunk!'
Acknowledging the accusations of others who claim that the artist's style incorporates funk elements in a misguided or inebriated manner, possibly considering it an insult.


They take theyself too serious (man!), making me furious (man!)
Expressing frustration with individuals who possess an overly serious demeanor, suggesting that it angers the artist, possibly perceiving such behavior as pretentious or ego-driven.


But not enough to start acting (nope!)
Acknowledging the anger felt towards these individuals but dismissing the idea of resorting to aggressive or confrontational behavior in response.


Like I'm Larry Fishburne, I sit back and smoke herb
Comparing oneself to renowned actor Larry Fishburne (known for his calmness) and portraying a relaxed and nonchalant attitude, including the indulgence of smoking marijuana.


I'm coming in, covered deep, and I got my piece under the seat
Asserting the artist's arrival and presence, clandestinely carrying a firearm (piece) for protection, conveying a sense of readiness and vigilance.


For any Oliver mark-ass t'Wang
Threatening potential adversaries or critics with violent repercussions, specifically targeting someone named Oliver t'Wang as an example.


Call up the homie O-Dub, said 'It′s time to bring pain'
Referring to a friend or associate named O-Dub and indicating that it is time to confront and inflict suffering on those who have provoked or challenged the artist.


Better get started on that farewell e-mail
Advising the targets of the artist's retaliation to begin composing a farewell email in preparation for their imminent downfall.


Tell 'em Double K and Thes One shall prevail
Asserting the artist's conviction that they, Double K and Thes One, will emerge victorious or triumphant in any conflict or competition.


It's the Old School Testament, ready to strike back
Indicating a return to traditional and classic hip-hop values, suggesting that the artist is prepared to counter any opposition or adversity.


To the dugout, so we can party all night
Referring to retreating from confrontation or conflict and retreating to a dugout (safe space), suggesting that the artist intends to celebrate and enjoy themselves throughout the night.


'Slow down, Double K!' is what the people say
Addressing the artist's energetic and fast-paced approach, with people expressing a desire for Double K to slow down and temper his enthusiasm.


I reply 'What? I can't!' 'cause I'm a champ
Responding to the demand to slow down, the artist confidently asserts that they cannot comply because they are a champion, demonstrating their determination and belief in their abilities.


Like stepping to the Rap-girl's Delight
Comparing the artist's charisma and appeal to the iconic song 'Rapper's Delight,' suggesting a similar ability to captivate and entertain.


Make it sunny at night with fresh beats that's tight
Describing the artist's ability to create an enjoyable and lively atmosphere, metaphorically making it feel like daytime even during the night, through their skillful production of captivating beats.


Beats that sound right, everything y'all like
Asserting the artist's understanding of what resonates with listeners, including the creation of beats that meet popular preferences and satisfy their tastes.


People Under The influence, stealing your bike, punk!
Referencing the artist's group name, People Under The Stairs, altering it to People Under The Influence, metaphorically implying that their music will captivate and influence listeners, lightheartedly suggesting that they will even 'steal your bike,' taking away listeners' attention and loyalty from other artists.




Writer(s): Mike Turner, Chris Portugal

Contributed by Lauren F. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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