The name “Royce” came from his R shaped Turkish link chain which was said to have resembled a Rolls Royce logo. During high school Royce was one of the shortest players on his basketball team, standing 5′9” at age 18.
Royce signed with Tommy Boy records in 1998 and later was slated to release his debut album Rock City. Though this relationship was premature, Royce ended up leaving the label citing creative differences.
Royce began working with well known Game Recordings who helped get him in front of the right people to negotiate a deal with Columbia Records. Royce’s Rock City debut was yet again plagued with delays, during which the album was heavily bootlegged. Though not in their favor, Columbia chose to release Rock City in limited quantity and quickly went out of print by the time Royce left Columbia.
Around this time Royce dropped the underground banger “Boom” with production by Dj Premier. Soon thereafter he joined up with Koch / Game Recordings and released Rock City (Version 2.0) independently.
Most well known for his association with Slim Shady – the two met at a concert while Slim was promoting his Slim Shady EP. The two formed a Duo called Bad Meets Evil, releasing a number of tracks including “Renegades” [Original Version], “Nuttin’ to Do”, “Scary Movies”, “She’s the One”, and “See You In Hell”, which appeared on Eminem’s album The Slim Shady LP, titled “Bad Meets Evil”.
In 2001 Royce was set to work with Dr Dre’s Chronic 2000 project as a ghostwriter. He contributed tracks including “The Message”, “The Throne Is Mine”, “Stay In Your Place” and the original version of “Xxplosive” titled “The Way I Be Pimpin’”.
Royce’s association with Dr. Dre ceased when his manager, Kino Childrey spoke to a reporter about Eminem and Dre in the studio. Royce refused to dismiss his manager and long time friend, ending his relationship with Dre.
Royce and Em had a mutual friendship with Proof. Though Royce had bad blood with D12 member, Bizarre, stemming from a earlier freestyle battle with Royce’s brother. Misscommunication escalated the beef between the pair, causing it to spiral out of control and include all members of the rap group D12.
In 2002, Royce called Eminem to request to be signed to Shady Records. Eminem declined and soon thereafter signed 50-cent to Shady Records instead.
Royce released several diss tracks including “Shit on U” (over D12’s “Shit on You”), taking shots at Bizzare of D12. Royce continued record dis tracks including “We Ridin’”, “Death Day”, and “Malcolm X”. There’s speculation that Royce and Em often wrote bars dissing each other subliminally.
From 2002-2003 Royce kept a low profile releasing releasing Build & Destroy, and Build & Destroy: The Lost Sessions Part 1 across the mixtape circuit.
In 2003, Royce’s beef with D12 finally reached its tipping point. Royce and Proof and their entourages spilled into the streets of Detroit arguing but the issue dissipated once firearms were drawn. The two rappers spent a night in jail, and settled their beef.
In 2004 Royce released his sophomore effort Death Is Certain on Koch records, as well as two mixtapes from his crew M.I.C. (Make it Count). The crew includes members Royce, Kid Vishis,and June.
2005 marked Royce’s third full length album release Independent’s Day on Trouble/M.I.C. Records.
Royce Da 5′9″ was sentenced to jail on September 19, 2006 for parole violation for a prior DUI charge. Royce was sentenced to one year in the clink at Oakland County Jail, Pontiac, Michigan. On January 9, 2007, Royce got out of jail on work-release.
Royce has a strong ghostwriting resume including the track “Tell Me” ft. Christina Aguilera for Diddy’s album Press Play.
In May 2007, Royce Da 5′9″ released a mixtape called The Bar Exam which features DJ Premier and Statik Selektah on the Wheels of Steel.
In 2008, Royce confirmed that he had officially resolved his longstanding differences with Eminem and celebrated with a reunion concert on July 12, 2008 at Saint Andrews Hall. A mixtape of the reunion concert was soon released thereafter.
Royce also had beef with other industry majors including Mistah Fab, Cashi$, and Joe Budden, Kanye West and the Ruff Ryders.
Ride
Royce da 5'9" Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Like a motherfucking gangsta gun toaster, slash prankster
In the 7 on Dalvins with Cash, we be mashing
To the club seeing who gon' hurl who the fastest
Bitches sipping bubbly and drinking thug passion
Niggas get them lil' pistols shoved in they asses
This hundred-and-one round drum take up half the
Trunk so punk, we gon' tear up this club faster
And if you get on then we can use you
From 7 and Woodward to 7 and Telly, the West side
Where niggas with 'Cardis, weapons in Pelle's yes ma
From 7 and Woodward to 7 and Kelly the East side
It's murder from Kelly and further
East where peace signs and street signs is unheard of
You can either collide with me or ride with me
(This is how we ride)
Up and down, Plymouth (ride) B-Roc, niggas (ride)
Up and down, Finkel (ride) Bright Mo', niggas (ride)
Up and down, Sixth P.A., niggas (we ride)
Up and down, Seven 7 Mile, dogs (this is how we ride)
Up and down, Eight (ride) 8 Mile, niggas (ride)
Up and down, Nine (ride) Oak Park, niggas (ride)
Up and down, Ten up and down, Eleven (we ride)
Southfield, niggas (this is how we)
In the D every day is violent, it's never silent
All you hear is cop sirens and shots firing
Being broke got tiring so how I'm supposed to eat?
I chose the street, fuck a job, they not hiring
Cats be tripping, 'gnac we sipping
Crack be flipping, you will never catch me slipping
Watch out or get stuck for your jacket
AIDS spreading, strap up 'fore you catch it
A dude chopped his wife up with a hatchet (damn)
You might live to see eighteen
She got raped, he gagged her mouth, so she can't scream
It's the murder Mitten, crime is rising
They robbed a bank, they gave my nigga Hank time for driving
We hustle, ain't no 9-to-5'n (uh-uh)
When beef go down, I might just have to do some time, I'm riding (fo'sho')
It's on, you gon' be on your back
I'm representing Detroit, until I die you see this D on my hat, nigga
(This is how we ride)
Up and down the Craft (ride) School Craft, niggas (ride)
Up and down, Joy (ride) Joy Road, niggas (ride)
Off West, Gram my Zone 8, niggas (we ride)
Up and down, Warren West Warren, niggas (this is how we ride)
Up and down the Wood (ride) Linwood, niggas (ride)
Up and down, Twelfth (ride) Twelfth Street, niggas (ride)
Up and down, Dexter my Dexter niggas (we ride)
Off Davidson Ave Woodrow, nigga (this is how we)
The weapons is close
One wrong hood get cooked, news stressing your folks
I have your block, in them white tees repping your ghost
Meanwhile I'm in the sky loft, stretching the coke
My name Juan nigga boss of the state
Hold yo' head in this piranha tank, bitch let 'em gnaw on your face
Pussy ass niggas lie in they bars
'til they collide with niggas like me, see they dog die in they arms
I'm from Detroit nigga, smuggler's heaven
Lions, Tigers and bears, gorillas, snakes man the jungle is present
Go ahead and play hard man
They find yo' ass half-naked, somewhere off in them trees like Tarzan
Nigga, beating your chest with Ninas and tec's
My niggas cutthroat gangsta, beat you to death
Don't make the pump blow waste ya, all on the steps
Man every Dirty Glove banger, throw up your set, nigga!
(This is how we ride)
Up and down, Gratiot (ride) my, Gratiot niggas (ride)
Up and down the Van (ride) Van Dyke, niggas (ride)
Up and down, Mac Mac Love, niggas (we ride)
Up and down, Kelly them A.K., killas (this is how we ride)
Up and down, French (ride) French Road, niggas (ride)
Up and down the Drive (ride) outer Drive, niggas (ride)
Up and down, Connors up and down, Chalmers (we ride)
East side, nigga (this is how we)
Yeah, my nigga Juan, Street Lord Mafia
Big Herk, good looking out nigga
Rock Bottom, what up T-Dot?
It's Rock City niggas, M.I.C.
Ride wit me!
The Southwest to, Grand River to Griswalden State
I ain't forgot about y'all niggas
Anybody else who I ain't say y'all know how I do, Nickel
Ride wit me!
Shout out to my nigga Doug
Good looking out my nigga
Yeah, hit me baby
This is how we ride, ride, ride, ride, ride, ride
This is how we
In Royce da 5'9"'s song Ride, he describes the violent streets of Detroit and the sense of community and loyalty that exists there. From the opening line, "Yeah, yeah, I'm a everyday walk my dogs," Royce asserts his sense of gangsta bravado, but also his daily routine. He's not just a tough guy, he's also a dog lover. The song is littered with references to local streets, such as "7 and Woodward to 7 and Telly" and "Woodward to 7 and Kelly," which creates a sense of location and connection to the city. Royce also references the violence of the city, mentioning cops sirens and gunshots. He talks about how being broke in Detroit is tough and how he chose the street life because jobs weren't hiring.
Royce's lyrics are full of cultural references, including drinking "thug passion" and "choppin' it up with Juan." He also references the Detroit Lions and Tigers, which underscores his sense of pride for the city. There's a tension between recognition of the violence and crime in the city and a sense of pride and loyalty to Detroit. Royce has been an influential figure in the Detroit rap scene, and Ride is an important part of his catalog. The song highlights the challenges and triumphs of living in Detroit, and Royce's lyrical prowess is on full display.
Line by Line Meaning
Yeah, yeah, I'm a every day walk my dogs
Yes, indeed, I am a person who takes my responsibilities seriously, just like how I take my dogs out for walks every day.
Like a motherfucking gangsta gun toaster, slash prankster
I possess the qualities of both a tough, weapon-carrying individual and a mischievous joker who likes to play tricks on others.
In the 7 on Dalvins with Cash, we be mashing
I can be found cruising around in the 7 series BMW on Dalvins street with my friend Cash, enjoying the ride.
To the club seeing who gon' hurl who the fastest
When we go to the club, we have fun by observing and competing with each other to see who can drink and party the most energetically.
Bitches sipping bubbly and drinking thug passion
Women at the club are enjoying their time, indulging in champagne and embracing the exciting lifestyle associated with thugs.
Niggas get them lil' pistols shoved in they asses
Men who act tough often hide their small guns in their rear ends, symbolizing both their cowardice and their attempts to appear formidable.
This hundred-and-one round drum take up half the
The large drum magazine with a capacity of 101 bullets is so significant that it occupies a substantial portion of the available space.
Trunk so punk, we gon' tear up this club faster
The trunk of our car is filled with aggressive firepower, and we intend to cause chaos and destruction at the club more rapidly than anyone else.
Detroit niggas only get along with who belong
People from Detroit tend to form genuine connections with those who share a common background and sense of belonging.
And if you get on then we can use you
If you manage to gain acceptance and become part of our group, we may exploit your skills and resources for our own benefit.
From 7 and Woodward to 7 and Telly, the West side
Spanning from the intersection of 7 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue to the intersection of 7 Mile Road and Telegraph Road, which represents the western area of Detroit.
Where niggas with 'Cardis, weapons in Pelle's yes ma
In this region, individuals can be seen wearing 'Cardis (likely referring to Cardinale brand clothing) while simultaneously carrying concealed weapons protected by Pelle Pelle jackets.
From 7 and Woodward to 7 and Kelly the East side
Extending from the intersection of 7 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue to the intersection of 7 Mile Road and Kelly Road, representing the eastern part of Detroit.
It's murder from Kelly and further
Once you go beyond Kelly Road, the frequency and intensity of criminal activities, particularly homicides, increase significantly.
East where peace signs and street signs is unheard of
In the eastern region, gestures of peace and traditional street signs are rare or nonexistent, symbolizing the prevalence of violence and lawlessness.
You can either collide with me or ride with me
In this environment, you have two choices: become enemies and face confrontation with me, or join forces and support my cause.
(This is how we ride)
The following lines describe the various locations and activities that define how we, as a group, travel and operate.
Up and down, Plymouth (ride) B-Roc, niggas (ride)
We move through the streets of Plymouth and B-Roc, encountering various individuals and engaging in our lifestyle.
Up and down, Finkel (ride) Bright Mo', niggas (ride)
We navigate the streets of Finkel and Bright Mo', encountering different people and embracing our way of life.
Up and down, Sixth P.A., niggas (we ride)
We travel along Sixth P.A., interacting with different individuals, and collectively continue our journey.
Up and down, Seven 7 Mile, dogs (this is how we ride)
We navigate through the streets of Seven Mile, encountering various people, especially those considered loyal companions.
Up and down, Eight (ride) 8 Mile, niggas (ride)
We travel back and forth on Eight Mile Road, encountering different individuals and engaging in our lifestyle.
Up and down, Nine (ride) Oak Park, niggas (ride)
We roam along Nine Mile Road, passing through areas like Oak Park, where we interact with various people and embrace our way of life.
Up and down, Ten up and down, Eleven (we ride)
We move through the streets of Tenth and Eleventh Mile, continuously traveling, encountering different individuals, and collectively continuing our journey.
Southfield, niggas (this is how we)
We traverse through Southfield, where we encounter various individuals and embrace our lifestyle as we move forward.
In the D every day is violent, it's never silent
In Detroit, violence is an everyday occurrence, and peace and tranquility are nonexistent, leading to a constant state of chaos and noise.
All you hear is cop sirens and shots firing
The sounds that dominate the urban landscape are the sirens of police cars patrolling, along with the frequent noise of gunshots being fired.
Being broke got tiring so how I'm supposed to eat?
Enduring financial hardship became exhausting, leaving me wondering how I can sustain myself and fulfill my basic needs.
I chose the street, fuck a job, they not hiring
I made a decision to rely on the streets to make a living, disregarding the possibility of finding employment since suitable opportunities are scarce.
Cats be tripping, 'gnac we sipping
People often become irrational and act foolishly, while I relax and enjoy sipping cognac, symbolizing my ability to remain composed.
Crack be flipping, you will never catch me slipping
The illicit drug market remains active and profitable, but I will never be caught unprepared or unaware of my surroundings.
Watch out or get stuck for your jacket
Be cautious, or else you may fall victim to a robbery, resulting in the loss of your clothing or personal belongings.
AIDS spreading, strap up 'fore you catch it
The HIV/AIDS epidemic is prevalent, so it is crucial to protect yourself by wearing a condom before engaging in sexual activities to avoid contracting the disease.
A dude chopped his wife up with a hatchet (damn)
I was shocked and appalled to learn that a man brutally murdered his wife using a hatchet as the weapon.
You might live to see eighteen
Given the dangerous nature of the city and the high rates of violence, merely surviving until the age of eighteen is considered an accomplishment.
She got raped, he gagged her mouth, so she can't scream
A distressing incident occurred where a woman was sexually assaulted, and her mouth was forcefully covered to prevent her from crying out for help.
It's the murder Mitten, crime is rising
Referring to Michigan as the 'murder Mitten' due to its shape on the map, indicating that crime rates in the state, including Detroit, are increasing.
They robbed a bank, they gave my nigga Hank time for driving
A group of individuals committed a bank robbery, resulting in my friend Hank being sentenced to prison solely for being the getaway driver.
We hustle, ain't no 9-to-5'n (uh-uh)
We engage in various illicit activities to make money since traditional nine-to-five jobs are not viable options for us.
When beef go down, I might just have to do some time, I'm riding (fo'sho')
In situations where conflicts escalate and potential legal consequences arise, I am willing to accept imprisonment if necessary, remaining loyal and steadfast.
It's on, you gon' be on your back
When a confrontation occurs, prepare yourself for a severe outcome, possibly ending up lying on the ground in defeat.
I'm representing Detroit, until I die you see this D on my hat, nigga
I am proudly and steadfastly representing and embodying the spirit of Detroit until the day I die, as symbolized by the iconic 'D' on my hat.
(This is how we ride)
The following lines describe the various locations and activities that define how we, as a group, travel and operate.
Up and down, the Craft (ride) School Craft, niggas (ride)
We move through the streets of the Craft area and School Craft, encountering various individuals and engaging in our lifestyle.
Up and down, Joy (ride) Joy Road, niggas (ride)
We traverse the streets of Joy Road, encountering different people and embracing our way of life.
Off West, Gram my Zone 8, niggas (we ride)
We venture into the West side, specifically the Gram and Zone 8 areas, encountering various individuals, and collectively continue our journey.
Up and down, Warren West Warren, niggas (this is how we ride)
We navigate through the streets of Warren and West Warren, encountering different individuals and engaging in our lifestyle.
Up and down the Wood (ride) Linwood, niggas (ride)
We travel across Linwood Avenue, engaging with different individuals and fully embracing our lifestyle.
Up and down, Twelfth (ride) Twelfth Street, niggas (ride)
We move through the streets of Twelfth Street, encountering various people and engaging in our way of life.
Up and down, Dexter my Dexter niggas (we ride)
We roam along Dexter Avenue, interacting with different individuals, particularly those from my neighborhood, and collectively continuing our journey.
Off Davidson Ave Woodrow, nigga (this is how we)
Branching off from Davidson Avenue to Woodrow Street, we encounter various individuals and continue to embody our lifestyle.
The weapons is close
We always keep our weapons within reach, ready to be utilized whenever necessary.
One wrong hood get cooked, news stressing your folks
If an individual makes a misstep or shows disrespect in our neighborhood, they will face severe consequences, causing distress for their loved ones as reported in the news.
I have your block, in them white tees repping your ghost
I have established control over your territory, mocking you by wearing white t-shirts representing the loss of your honor, respect, and dominance.
Meanwhile I'm in the sky loft, stretching the coke
While you are dealing with the consequences on the streets, I am in a luxurious high-rise penthouse, expanding my drug empire.
My name Juan nigga boss of the state
I am known as Juan, and I hold a position of authority and power, considered the leader of our criminal operations throughout the state.
Hold yo' head in this piranha tank, bitch let 'em gnaw on your face
Prepare yourself for a brutal experience, like being immersed in a piranha-filled tank, where they will ruthlessly nibble on your face, causing immense pain and suffering.
Pussy ass niggas lie in they bars
Individuals lacking courage and integrity often fabricate stories and make false claims in their music lyrics as a means of projecting a false image.
'til they collide with niggas like me, see they dog die in they arms
However, when they encounter individuals like me, their deceitful facade crumbles, and they witness their close associates experiencing violent deaths.
I'm from Detroit nigga, smuggler's heaven
Having origins in Detroit, I come from a city known for its thriving illegal activities, making it a paradise for those involved in smuggling goods.
Lions, Tigers and bears, gorillas, snakes man the jungle is present
Referring to the city as a jungle, Detroit embodies danger and threats represented by lions, tigers, and bears, as well as the lawless individuals who function like gorillas and snakes.
Go ahead and play hard man
Feel free to act tough and put on a facade, pretending to be strong and formidable.
They find yo' ass half-naked, somewhere off in them trees like Tarzan
When reality catches up to you, you will be discovered in a vulnerable and exposed state, reminiscent of Tarzan swinging through trees without clothing.
Nigga, beating your chest with Ninas and tec's
As an expression of dominance and power, individuals in Detroit will ostentatiously display their firearms, including handguns and automatic rifles.
My niggas cutthroat gangsta, beat you to death
My associates are ruthless and dangerous individuals who will resort to brutality and inflict fatal harm upon their adversaries.
Don't make the pump blow waste ya, all on the steps
Do not provoke a situation where the shotgun is discharged, leading to your demise and your lifeless body left lying on the stairs.
Man every Dirty Glove banger, throw up your set, nigga!
All loyal members of the Dirty Glove gang should proudly represent their affiliation by displaying their hand signs and proclaiming their association.
(This is how we ride)
The following lines describe the various locations and activities that define how we, as a group, travel and operate.
Up and down, Gratiot (ride) my Gratiot niggas (ride)
We move through the streets of Gratiot, encountering various individuals, particularly those associated with Gratiot Avenue, and engaging in our lifestyle.
Up and down the Van (ride) Van Dyke, niggas (ride)
We traverse across Van Dyke Avenue, interacting with different people and fully embracing our lifestyle.
Up and down, Mac Mac Love, niggas (we ride)
We navigate through the streets of Mac Love, referring to a specific district, encountering different individuals, and collectively continue our journey.
Up and down, Kelly them A.K., killas (this is how we ride)
We travel along Kelly Road, interacting with individuals known to use and possess AK-47 assault rifles, furthering our reputation and lifestyle.
Up and down, French (ride) French Road, niggas (ride)
We roam along French Road, encountering various people and freely participating in our lifestyle.
Up and down the Drive (ride) outer Drive, niggas (ride)
We travel across Outer Drive, engaging with different individuals and embracing our street culture.
Up and down, Connors up and down, Chalmers (we ride)
We traverse the streets of Connors and Chalmers, interacting with various individuals and continuing our journey collectively as a group.
East side, nigga (this is how we)
We roam around the East side of the city, encountering various individuals and unapologetically representing our lifestyle.
Yeah, my nigga Juan, Street Lord Mafia
I want to give a shout-out and show respect to my friend Juan, a member of the Street Lord Mafia, a notorious criminal organization in Detroit.
Big Herk, good looking out nigga
I want to express my gratitude and appreciation to Big Herk, recognizing his support and assistance.
Rock Bottom, what up T-Dot?
I want to send greetings and acknowledge the Rock Bottom crew, particularly T-Dot.
It's Rock City niggas, M.I.C.
We proudly represent Rock City, which refers to the city of Detroit, and the initials M.I.C. represent our affiliations and associated lifestyle.
Ride wit me!
Join me on this journey and embrace the experiences and lifestyle that we encounter.
The Southwest to, Grand River to Griswalden State
From the Southwest region to the areas along Grand River Avenue extending towards Griswalden State, encompassing a wide territory within the city.
I ain't forgot about y'all niggas
Acknowledging that I haven't neglected or overlooked the individuals in those areas, recognizing their presence and remaining connected with them.
Anybody else who I ain't say y'all know how I do, Nickel
If I haven't mentioned your specific location, it doesn't mean I've disregarded you. Rest assured, I am familiar with your area and the lifestyle that prevails, my friend.
Ride wit me!
Join me on this journey and embrace the experiences and lifestyle that we encounter.
Shout out to my nigga Doug
I want to give a special mention and recognition to my friend Doug, showing appreciation for his support and companionship.
Good looking out my nigga
Thank you for your assistance and support, my friend. Your actions have not gone unnoticed or unappreciated.
Yeah, hit me baby
Expressing excitement and enthusiasm, inviting someone to contact me and connect with me.
This is how we ride, ride, ride, ride, ride, ride
Emphasizing and affirming that the described lifestyle and means of transportation are indicative of how we continue to navigate and operate.
This is how we
Introducing the continuation of describing our lifestyle and journey, reaffirming the consistent patterns and actions that define us.
Lyrics © Peermusic Publishing, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Universal Music Publishing Group, DOMINO PUBLISHING COMPANY
Written by: EVE NELSON, BERNADETTE O'REILLY, BILLY CRAWFORD
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind