A Star Is Born
R.A. the Rugged Man Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

Yeah baby, it's Phil Cassese live on Night Talk
We're talkin' about musical genius R.A. The Rugged Man
Let's take some calls, find out what you guys think
Yo, are's definitely one of the illest lyricist I've ever heard, that's real
R.A. man, he's comin' out, guns blazin' baby, boom, watch out
He's very intelligent, he's a positive role model in rap
I went to a show last week, he was the bomb
He was better than Michael Jackson
He's so sexy, My girl said he had an eleven inch cock, couldn't walk with
Yo R.A. is worldwide man, he's goin' platinum, quadruple, 'n big time
First time I saw him, I knew he had a star quality, he's a superstar

Ayo, here's the whole story, the whole true, "He's retarded"
Here's how my whole bullshit career started
Back in '88 it was about battle rappin' and shootin' guns off
At house parties, say "HO" before rhymin'
No complainin', no money, no fame, still maintainin'
1991, now my whole career started bustin'
You seen on stage shows, guess the crowd jump in it
Let the kids come on
Tommy Boy, Mercury, Priority wanted me
Russell Simmons, and nine other record companies
Sendin' limousines out to pick up my broke ass
Feedin' me stakes, buyin' me hookers, I hope that shit last
I was used to have no cash, I got gat
White trash, why they want to sign my ass?
Ninety-two the whole industry was on my dick
I signed to Jive Records, and fucked up the whole shit

You're a shinin' star
You're a superstar
Ooh
Large star
But you gonna be large
You're a shinin' star
You're a superstar
Ooh
Yeah, right

Now I'm stuck on a whack label
They say, "See the way you behave
Now wonder why the label hate you"
They say "He's a beast, he's a creature
Keep him in the other room, don't let him see Aaliyah"
Banned from the building, I don't want to see ???
"He just don't know how to play the game right
He could be larger than life"
They try to turn the label Caucasian
They signed me, Whitey Don and the Insane Clown Posse
And then they signed the Backstreet Boys and Britney
It's a pop label, what the fuck they want with me?
Forget R. Kelly, I'ma do that rippin' out your cunt shit
I flipped the fuck out and did some dumb shit
Looked at me, I got a gun shit
I ain't gonna give you that commercial run hit
Instead I gave you "Every record label suck dick"
Try to press charges against me
Suited me, blackballed me
My lawyer wouldn't even call me

You're a shinin' star
You're a superstar
Ooh
Large star
But you gonna be large
You're a shinin' star
You're a superstar
Ooh
Large star

You're a shinin' star
You're a superstar
Ooh
Large star
But you gonna be large
You're a shinin' star
You're a superstar
Ooh
Yeah, right

Ninety-five, I'm broke out the ass, no doe
Watchin' everybody else around me blow
Trackmasters, Mobb Deep, Keith Murray
Biggie and Puff, I'll admit it, I was jealous as fuck
I was so pathetic
No doe under ugly chick
With a no doe fetish, all my old hoes jetted
Went from hearin' "You gon' be a star kid"
To hearin' "He ain't talented, he's garbage"
Now for shitty kicks there's no market
Ninety-six, I got a gun now
I remember I was bout to kill Jeff Fenster
Moved back in with pop duke
And my handicapped brothers and sisters, and we had no loot
That's when the Feds came by
And surrounded the house
They had automatic weapons, and was pullin' 'em out
And the moral of the story is
All that glamour and glitz shit (what?)
Fuck that shit, I don't need it

You're a shinin' star
You're a superstar
Ooh
Large star
But you gonna be large
You're a shinin' star
You're a superstar
Ooh
Yeah, right

Yeah baby, it's Phil Cassese, we're back live on Night Talk
R.A. the Rugged Man, what happened to that guy? We're takin' calls
Yo, are's the true definition of a whack ass, punk ass, bitch ass MC, 'na mean
R.A., You're goin' down boy like a piece of shit, boom!
I see him at the mall, he grab my ass and on my tits
I went to a show last week, it sucked so bad
He was in it underwear, spittin' underwear, he's so disgusting
Yeah, my girl fucked him
She sad he had a little 2 inch dick, and couldn't keep it hard
R.A.? Heard his label drop him, guy's a loser
Yo anybody seen that guy R.A. around, heard he's fuckin' broke
Yeah, I don't think R.A. is that bad guy and everything
Just cause he's losing and shit, and I, before
I think we might have R.A. the Rugged Man on the line now




R.A, is that you?
Uh, NO!

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of R.A. the Rugged Man's song "A Star Is Born" tell the story of his rise and fall in the music industry. The song is presented as a live talk show where callers express their opinions about R.A. The first verse describes how impressed some listeners are with R.A.'s lyrical abilities and how they see him as a positive role model. However, the following verse tells a different side of the story. R.A. reveals that he started his career battle rapping and promoting violence, but eventually gained popularity after years of performing. He contrasts the struggles he faced before becoming known to the spoils of fame, including limousines and steak dinners. However, things go downhill after he signs with a pop-oriented label, and they fail to understand his music. They even try to make him more "acceptable" by whitewashing the label's image. R.A. resists, and in response, he puts out a track that curses out record labels. This leads to him being sued and blacklisted from the industry. He ends up broke and unable to replicate his past successes.


R.A. The Rugged Man's "A Star is Born" describes the struggles of artists in the music industry. It shows how quickly people can rise to popularity but also how quickly they can fall out of favor. R.A.'s critique of the pop industry shows how artists can struggle when their music doesn't fit the mold of what is expected of them by record labels. These lyrics are a personal reflection of R.A.'s own experience in the music industry, and they offer a cautionary tale of the challenges that come with success.


Line by Line Meaning

Yeah baby, it's Phil Cassese live on Night Talk
Phil Cassese is introducing the show Night Talk, where he discusses R.A. the Rugged Man's music.


We're talkin' about musical genius R.A. The Rugged Man
The show is discussing R.A. the Rugged Man, highlighting his talent and skill as a musician.


Let's take some calls, find out what you guys think
The show now wants to hear the opinions of the listeners regarding R.A. the Rugged Man.


Yo, are's definitely one of the illest lyricist I've ever heard, that's real
A caller praises R.A. the Rugged Man as being one of the greatest lyricists they have ever heard.


R.A. man, he's comin' out, guns blazin' baby, boom, watch out
R.A. the Rugged Man is being described as a highly talented and impactful artist who is making a strong entrance into the music scene.


He's very intelligent, he's a positive role model in rap
R.A. the Rugged Man is recognized for his intelligence and his ability to be a positive influence in the rap industry.


I went to a show last week, he was the bomb
A fan attended one of R.A. the Rugged Man's recent shows and describes it as an amazing experience.


He was better than Michael Jackson
The fan believes that R.A. the Rugged Man's performance was superior to that of the legendary artist Michael Jackson.


He's so sexy, My girl said he had an eleven inch cock, couldn't walk with
A fan's girlfriend finds R.A. the Rugged Man attractive and exaggerates his physical attributes in a humorous manner.


Yo R.A. is worldwide man, he's goin' platinum, quadruple, 'n big time
The caller believes that R.A. the Rugged Man is achieving massive success and recognition on a global scale, predicting platinum record sales.


First time I saw him, I knew he had a star quality, he's a superstar
From their very first encounter, the caller recognized R.A. the Rugged Man as someone with exceptional talent and the potential to be a superstar.


Ayo, here's the whole story, the whole true, "He's retarded"
R.A. the Rugged Man is about to share his personal story, highlighting the challenges he has faced and the misconceptions people might have about him.


Here's how my whole bullshit career started
R.A. the Rugged Man begins explaining how his career, despite its difficulties, began.


Back in '88 it was about battle rappin' and shootin' guns off
In 1988, the hip-hop scene revolved around competitive rap battles and a culture that also involved firearms.


At house parties, say "HO" before rhymin'
During house parties, before starting to rap, it was common for participants to shout the word "HO" as a form of encouragement and excitement.


No complainin', no money, no fame, still maintainin'
Despite facing challenges such as a lack of money and fame, R.A. the Rugged Man managed to persevere and remain driven without complaining.


1991, now my whole career started bustin'
In 1991, R.A. the Rugged Man's career began to gain momentum and success.


You seen on stage shows, guess the crowd jump in it
During R.A. the Rugged Man's performances, the crowd becomes enthusiastic and energetic, actively participating and engaging in the show.


Let the kids come on
R.A. the Rugged Man encourages young or aspiring artists to participate, share their talents, and step onto the stage.


Tommy Boy, Mercury, Priority wanted me
Prominent record labels like Tommy Boy, Mercury, and Priority expressed interest in signing R.A. the Rugged Man due to his talent and potential.


Russell Simmons, and nine other record companies
Russell Simmons, a highly influential figure in the music industry, along with nine other record companies, also desired to work with R.A. the Rugged Man.


Sendin' limousines out to pick up my broke ass
The record labels were willing to go to great lengths, such as sending luxurious limousines, to secure and support R.A. the Rugged Man despite his financial struggles.


Feedin' me stakes, buyin' me hookers, I hope that shit last
The labels provided R.A. the Rugged Man with extravagant experiences, such as fine dining and companionship, but he expresses skepticism about the longevity of such treatment.


I was used to have no cash, I got gat
R.A. the Rugged Man was accustomed to having no money, but his situation changed, and he acquired a firearm.


White trash, why they want to sign my ass?
R.A. the Rugged Man questions why the record labels were interested in signing him, considering he identifies himself as white trash or someone from a lower socioeconomic background.


Ninety-two the whole industry was on my dick
In 1992, the entire music industry was heavily interested in and supportive of R.A. the Rugged Man's career.


I signed to Jive Records, and fucked up the whole shit
R.A. the Rugged Man explains that his signing with Jive Records brought about negative consequences and disrupted the industry's dynamic.


Now I'm stuck on a whack label
R.A. the Rugged Man finds himself signed to a subpar record label that does not meet his expectations or standards.


They say, "See the way you behave
The label disapproves of R.A. the Rugged Man's behavior or actions.


Now wonder why the label hate you"
The label's animosity towards R.A. the Rugged Man can be attributed to his behavior or attitude.


They say "He's a beast, he's a creature
The label negatively characterizes R.A. the Rugged Man, labeling him as someone unpredictable and difficult to handle.


Keep him in the other room, don't let him see Aaliyah"
The label tries to isolate R.A. the Rugged Man from another artist, Aaliyah, as they believe their interaction could lead to negative consequences.


Banned from the building, I don't want to see ???
R.A. the Rugged Man is prohibited from entering the label's premises and expresses his disinterest in dealing with the situation further.


"He just don't know how to play the game right
The label criticizes R.A. the Rugged Man's lack of knowledge or ability to navigate the music industry successfully.


He could be larger than life"
Despite the label's negative perception of R.A. the Rugged Man, they acknowledge his potential to achieve tremendous success and become iconic.


They try to turn the label Caucasian
R.A. the Rugged Man accuses the label of attempting to steer their direction towards the predominantly white Caucasian market.


They signed me, Whitey Don and the Insane Clown Posse
The label signed R.A. the Rugged Man, along with Whitey Don and the Insane Clown Posse, further highlighting their shift towards a more alternative or niche market.


And then they signed the Backstreet Boys and Britney
The label's signing choices transitioned from alternative artists to mainstream pop acts like the Backstreet Boys and Britney Spears, further alienating R.A. the Rugged Man's style within the label.


It's a pop label, what the fuck they want with me?
R.A. the Rugged Man questions why the label, focused on pop music, decided to sign him, knowing that his style is not aligned with the pop genre.


Forget R. Kelly, I'ma do that rippin' out your cunt shit
R.A. the Rugged Man dismisses the comparison with R. Kelly and asserts his own style, emphasizing his willingness to shock or challenge listeners with explicit and provocative lyrics.


I flipped the fuck out and did some dumb shit
R.A. the Rugged Man lost control of his emotions and acted impulsively, resulting in regrettable or foolish behavior.


Looked at me, I got a gun shit
R.A. the Rugged Man reveals that during his altercation, he had a firearm as a means of protection.


I ain't gonna give you that commercial run hit
R.A. the Rugged Man expresses his unwillingness to create a mainstream, commercially successful hit song as requested by the label.


Instead I gave you "Every record label suck dick"
R.A. the Rugged Man rebelled against the label's expectations by creating a song that criticizes and mocks the entire music industry, including record labels.


Try to press charges against me
The label attempts to bring legal charges against R.A. the Rugged Man as a consequence of his actions and behavior.


Suited me, blackballed me
The label retaliates against R.A. the Rugged Man by preventing future opportunities and effectively banning him from the music industry.


My lawyer wouldn't even call me
R.A. the Rugged Man feels abandoned by his own lawyer, who fails to communicate or support him during this difficult situation.


Ninety-five, I'm broke out the ass, no doe
In 1995, R.A. the Rugged Man is financially destitute, lacking money or any financial resources.


Watchin' everybody else around me blow
While struggling financially, R.A. the Rugged Man witnesses other artists achieving great success and recognition.


Trackmasters, Mobb Deep, Keith Murray
R.A. the Rugged Man mentions prominent artists like Trackmasters, Mobb Deep, and Keith Murray, who were gaining significant success during that time period.


Biggie and Puff, I'll admit it, I was jealous as fuck
R.A. the Rugged Man admits to feeling intense jealousy towards Biggie Smalls and Puff Daddy due to their exceptional achievements in the industry.


I was so pathetic
R.A. the Rugged Man reflects on his own behavior during that period, feeling ashamed of his jealous and self-pitying mindset.


No doe under ugly chick
Despite his lack of money, R.A. the Rugged Man becomes involved with a less attractive or socially undesirable partner.


With a no doe fetish, all my old hoes jetted
R.A. the Rugged Man's previous relationships end due to his financial struggles and inability to provide for his partners.


Went from hearin' "You gon' be a star kid"
Previously, R.A. the Rugged Man received encouragement and support, with people believing in his potential to become a star.


To hearin' "He ain't talented, he's garbage"
However, the perception of R.A. the Rugged Man's talent drastically changes, with people now dismissing him as untalented and inferior.


Now for shitty kicks there's no market
Due to his declining reputation and lack of financial resources, R.A. the Rugged Man is unable to find a market or demand for his music.


Ninety-six, I got a gun now
In 1996, R.A. the Rugged Man acquires a firearm, suggesting a sense of desperation or feeling the need for protection.


I remember I was bout to kill Jeff Fenster
R.A. the Rugged Man recalls a specific incident where he contemplated killing someone named Jeff Fenster, possibly due to frustration or anger.


Moved back in with pop duke
Due to his financial struggle, R.A. the Rugged Man returns to live with his father, describing him as "pop duke" in a casual manner.


And my handicapped brothers and sisters, and we had no loot
R.A. the Rugged Man reveals that he, along with his handicapped siblings, faced financial difficulties and lacked resources to support themselves.


That's when the Feds came by
During this difficult period, the Federal authorities make an appearance or intervene in R.A. the Rugged Man's life.


And surrounded the house
The Feds encircle the house where R.A. the Rugged Man is residing, creating a sense of danger or impending trouble.


They had automatic weapons, and was pullin' 'em out
The Federal authorities possess and brandish automatic weapons, escalating the tense situation.


And the moral of the story is
The conclusion or main lesson to be drawn from this story is about to be revealed.


All that glamour and glitz shit (what?)
R.A. the Rugged Man reflects on the superficial and flashy aspects of the music industry, which often distract from the true essence or artistry of an artist.


Fuck that shit, I don't need it
R.A. the Rugged Man rejects the superficiality and materialism associated with the industry, emphasizing that he does not require it for his own success or fulfillment.


Yeah baby, it's Phil Cassese, we're back live on Night Talk
Phil Cassese returns to the show Night Talk, indicating that the discussion about R.A. the Rugged Man will continue.


R.A. the Rugged Man, what happened to that guy? We're takin' calls
Phil Cassese prompts the listeners to share their thoughts on R.A. the Rugged Man, questioning his current situation or status as an artist.


Yo, are's the true definition of a whack ass, punk ass, bitch ass MC, 'na mean
A caller insults R.A. the Rugged Man, labeling him as an unimpressive and inferior rapper.


R.A., You're goin' down boy like a piece of shit, boom!
Another caller expresses their disdain for R.A. the Rugged Man, predicting his downfall and failure as an artist in a harsh and vulgar manner.


I see him at the mall, he grab my ass and on my tits
A disgruntled individual claims that R.A. the Rugged Man sexually harassed them at a shopping mall, emphasizing his inappropriate behavior.


I went to a show last week, it sucked so bad
A dissatisfied attendee shares their negative experience at one of R.A. the Rugged Man's recent concerts, describing it as highly disappointing.


He was in it underwear, spittin' underwear, he's so disgusting
The caller criticizes R.A. the Rugged Man's performance attire, claiming that he was on stage in his underwear and exhibiting unpleasant behavior.


Yeah, my girl fucked him
A person brags about their partner sleeping with R.A. the Rugged Man, indirectly belittling the artist in a disrespectful manner.


She sad he had a little 2 inch dick, and couldn't keep it hard
The same person's partner provides explicit details about R.A. the Rugged Man's physical attributes, mocking his genital size and sexual performance.


R.A.? Heard his label drop him, guy's a loser
Another caller reveals that R.A. the Rugged Man has been dropped by his record label, further stigmatizing him as a failure or outcast.


Yo anybody seen that guy R.A. around, heard he's fuckin' broke
A caller inquires about R.A. the Rugged Man's whereabouts, making a derogatory comment about his financial situation.


Yeah, I don't think R.A. is that bad guy and everything
A caller expresses a differing opinion and does not view R.A. the Rugged Man as a completely negative or unworthy individual.


Just cause he's losing and shit, and I, before
The caller believes that some negative opinions about R.A. the Rugged Man might be influenced by his current lack of success or struggles, suggesting a more empathetic perspective.


I think we might have R.A. the Rugged Man on the line now
The show announces that they might have R.A. the Rugged Man himself on the phone as a guest.


R.A, is that you?
The host directly addresses R.A. the Rugged Man, asking if he is the one currently on the phone.


Uh, NO!
R.A. the Rugged Man responds with a simple rejection, indicating that he is not the person on the line.




Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: BARBRA STREISAND, PAUL H. WILLIAMS

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Most interesting comment from YouTube:

Kahaf

[Intro]
Radio speaker : Yeah baby, it's Phil Cassese live on Night Talk
We're talking about musical genius R.A. The Rugged Man
Let's take some calls, find out what you guys think
#1 Caller: Yo, R's definitly one of the illest lyricist I've ever heard, that's real
#2 Caller: R.A. man, he's coming out, guns blazing baby, BOOM, watch out
#3 Caller: He's very intelligent, he's a positive role model in rap
#4 Caller: I went to a show last week, he was the bomb...
He was better than Michael Jackson
#5 Caller: He's so sexy, My girl said he had an 11 inch cock, couldn't walk a week after
#6 Caller: Yo R.A. is worldwide man, he's going platinum, quadruple, and big time
#7 Caller: First time I saw him, I knew he had a star quality, he's a superstar

[Verse 1]
Ayyo, here's the whole story, the whole true, "He's retarded"
Here's how my whole bullshit career started
Back in '88 it was about battle rapping and shooting guns off
At house parties, say "HO" (BANG!BANG!BANG!) on the streets before rhyming
No complaining, no money, no fame, still maintaining
1991, now my whole career started busting
You seen on stage shows, guess the crowd jump in it
Let the kids come on
Tommy Boy, Mercury, Priority wanted me
Russell Simmons, and 9 other record companies
Sending limousines out to pick up my broke ass
Feeding me steaks, buying me hookers, I hope that shit last
I was used to have no cash, I got gassed
White trash, why they wanna sign my ass?
'92 the whole industry was on my dick
I signed to Jive Records, and fucked up the whole shit

[Hook]
You're a shining star
You're a superstar
(Ooohhh)
(Large star)
(But you gonna be large)
You're a shining star
You're a superstar
(Ooohhh)
(Yeah, right)

[Verse 2]
Now I'm stuck on a wack label
They say, "See the way you behave
Now wonder why the label hate you"
They said "He's a beast, he's a creature
Keep him in the other room, don't let him see Aaliyah"
"Ban him from the building, I don't wanna see him either"
"He just don't know how to play the game right
He could be larger than life"
They try to turn the label Caucasian
They signed me, Whitey Don and the Insane Clown Posse
And then they signed the Backstreet Boys and Britney
It's a pop label, what the fuck they want with me?
Forget R. Kelly, I'mma do that ripping out your cunt shit
I flipped the fuck out and did some dumb shit
On some look at me, I got a gun shit
I ain't gonna give you that commercial run hit
Instead I gave you "Every record label suck dick"
Try to press charges against me
Suited me, blackballed me
My lawyer wouldn't even call me

[Hook]
You're a shining star
You're a superstar
(Ooohhh)
(Large star)
(But you gonna be large)
You're a shining star
You're a superstar
(Ooohhh)
(Large star)
You're a shining star
You're a superstar
(Ooohhh)
(Large star)
(But you gonna be large)
You're a shining star
You're a superstar
(Ooohhh)
(Yeah, right)

[Verse 3]
'95, I'm broke out the ass, no dough
Watching everybody else around me blow
Trackmasters, Mobb Deep, Keith Murray
Biggie and Puff, I will admit it, I was jealous as fuck
I was so pathetic
No dough, found an ugly chick
With a no dough fetish, all my old hoes jetted
Went from hearing "You gon' be a star kid"
To hearing "He ain't talented, he's garbage"
Now for shitty kicks there's no market
'96, I got a gun now
I remember I was plotting to kill Jeff Fenster
Moved back in with pop duke
And my handicapped brothers and sisters, and we had no loot
That's when the Feds came by
And surrounded the house
They had automatic weapons, and was pulling 'em out
And the moral of the story is
All that glamour and glitz shit (what?)
Fuck that shit, I don't need it

[Hook]
You're a shining star
You're a superstar
(Ooohhh)
(Large star)
(But you gonna be large)
You're a shining star
You're a superstar
(Ooohhh)
(Yeah, right)

[Outro]
Radio speaker: Yeah baby, it's Phil Cassese, we're back live on Night Talk
The subject: R.A. the Rugged Man... What happened to that guy? We're taking calls
#1 Caller: Yo, R's the true definition of a wack ass, punk ass, bitch ass MC, 'na mean
#2 Caller: R.A., You're going down boy like a piece of shit, BOOM!
#3 Caller: I see him at the mall, he grab my ass and spit on my tits
#4 Caller: I went to a show last week, it sucked so bad
He was in his underwear, spitting everywhere, he's so disgusting
#5 Caller: Yeah, my girl fucked him
She sad he had a little 2 inch dick, and couldn't keep it hard
#6 Caller: R.A.? He’s hurting, man. Heard his label drop him, guy's a loser
#7 Caller: Yo anybody seen that guy R.A. around, heard he's fucking broke
#8 Caller: Yeah, I don't think R.A. is that bad guy and everything
Just cause he's losing and shit, and I, before..
Radio speaker: I think we might have R.A. the Rugged Man on the line now
R.A, is that you?
#8 Caller: Uuuh... NO!



All comments from YouTube:

Faizan Nazrawi

RA The Rugged Man still carrying Hip Hop genre on his back

Scared Folks

Man, I have so much more respect hearing this story. Dude keeps it real af.

killboi207

He wiped his ass with a real record contract lol.

Kevin Dube

It was real well written & the video damn sure helped but lyrically alone? this story was oddly emotional & a little inspiring too.
I apologize for being corny but it really was

Andrew Wilson

@Kevin Dube he has lyrical stuff out there. It’s a good take on a rapper autobiography. Check out “definition of a rap flow” for lyrics

turntableterrorist

haven't listened to this in time. still a great autobiographical sing by one of the best in the game. the beat is crazy good too. ironic he shines his hardships while the other more popular musicians he mentions have fallen on hard times.

Ricky Lowe

Jive Turkey Records!!!😂😂😂

ccso151

I love this guy. One of the mist underrated MCs of all time!

ali hamza

ra can be the biggest thing of this century but he is too real for the industry :p

George Betz

ali hamza Damn straight, hardly any real good music becomes popular these days. It's fucking bullshit, but on the up side all of the shows I want to go to are relatively cheap

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