In 2008, Stalley made his mixtape debut, titled Goin Ape, with fellow Ohio-native rapper Terry Urban. In 2009, he followed with the release of the new mixtape, titled MadStalley: The Autobiography, and a newfound reputation as a force on stage. Stalley attended the 2010 Iron Mic Competition in Beijing as the featured MC.
After Stalley signed a deal to Rick Ross' Maybach Music Group (MMG) label. Stalley has worked with producers Ski Beatz on the tracks, including "Address", "S.T.A.L.L.E.Y.", "Do It Big", and "Harsh Ave". Artist, named Rashad Thomas, was featured on album Lincoln Way Nights and a recording artist, named J. Rawls would be featured on the track "Babblin".
Stalley was featured on Curren$y's Universal/Def Jam album Pilot Talk on the track "Address" (released in June 2010), as well as he featured on Ski Beatz's Universal/Def Jam projects– including 24 Hour Karate School and 24 Hour Karate School, Pt. 2. In February 2011, Stalley completed a sports-themed music project, commissioned by ESPN, for future use in television and online programming. Stalley's Lincoln Way Nights (released in February 2011) has received 130K+ downloads and reigned at number 2 for Bandcamp hip hop releases. Lincoln Way Nights (released in November 2011) debuted at number 18 on the iTunes hip hop charts and has sold 4K+ copies.
Stalley also was featured on the Maybach Music Group albums, including Vol. 1 and Vol. 2, along with Rick Ross's mixtape Rich Forever. He also appeared on Ross' fifth studio album God Forgives, I Don't.
His most recent mixtape Savage Journey To The American Dream (released in March 2012), which reached 100K downloads in the first week, and was featured as the Stereogum Mixtape of the Week and the Spin Rap Release of the Week (7 out of 10). It was graded an XL by XXL, and HipHopDX awarded it 3.5 out of 5. The mixtape almost entirely produced by Huntsville, AL underground veterans Block Beattaz. Stalley's debut retail single "Swangin" featuring Scarface, from his Honest Cowboy, released on March 26, 2013 reuses a beat from G-Side's namesake track "Swangin" off their 2008 album "Starshipz & Rocketz", also produced by Block Beattaz. The music video was released on July 9, 2013 and featured a cameo from Paul Wall. On August 8, 2013, following of his mixtape's release, it was met with generally positive reviews from critics such as PopMatters. After it was revealed, it received a nomination at the 2013's BET Hip Hop Awards for the "Best Mixtape Category". After receiving a great response from his label, he released Honest Cowboy: EP to iTunes on September 17, 2013, which is on the same day as the release of the label's third compilation album Self Made Vol. 3.
On August 22, 2014, Stalley announced his debut album, Ohio, and four days later, he announced October 27 as the release date.
On August 21, 2015, almost one year since announcing his debut album, Stalley released a seven track mixtape, titled The Laughing Introvert. On January 25, 2016, Stalley released his 7th mixtape titled Saving Yusuf.
In 2017, Stalley released his second and third albums through Real Talk Entertainment, New Wave[/ablum] and Another Level. In an August 4 interview with Respect. magazine, he confirmed he was now independent.
Scared Money
Stalley Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I had no one to put up the bread for me (I had no one)
It's hot on the block, still milkin' change from it (milkin' change from it)
If it ain't 'bout the guap, I stay away from it (I stay away from it)
I ain't a stoner, but I smoke a lil' bit (smoke a lil' bit)
Relieve the stress when I roll up the spliff (relieve the stress)
We bendin' corners from whenever the wind (skrrt)
Spin the block, then we at it again (correct)
The hustle don't stop, it's 'round the clock here
When it comes to gettin' paper, we denounce fear
I know that's a big word, very cavalier
Big wheels on the curb, we park it right there
Spark the tree in front of NYPD
It's legal now, fuck they gon' do to me?
On my hippa 1 to 3, I ain't risking my life
Plottin' and schemin' these cowards wishin' I hide
I'm outside middle of summer, chains sparkin' like the Fourth of July
Parking lot look like The Dupont, a fortunate guy
My fortune the size of Scrooge McDuck
I'm swimmin' in women, I'm lappin' it up like the girls in the back of the Rolls-Royce truck
The money that was made couldn't be scared money (couldn't be scared money)
I had no one to put up the bread for me (I had no one)
It's hot on the block, still milkin' change from it (milkin' change from it)
If it ain't 'bout the guap, I stay away from it (I stay away from it)
I ain't a stoner, but I smoke a lil' bit (smoke a lil' bit)
Relieve the stress when I roll up the spliff (relieve the stress)
We bendin' corners from whenever the wind (skrrt)
Spin the block, then we at it again (correct)
Ayo, look, rest in peace to Barbara Davis, we hit another layer
When she speak to me, it's like she sayin' prayers
I feel like Randy Moss when he was on the RaidersMan, they love to hate us
This woman so fine, I give her cash payments
Baby, I'm just so glued to the basics
I wanted more room, so I copped a crib sittin' adjacent, uh
In this hoop world, I'm Freddy, Jason
I'm sittin' in the places of great, but never complacent
Yeah, baby, I'm a stoner
Yeah, I took that long walk up the hill that made me a loner
And nah, baby, I don't like bein' humble, I hang with mongrels
Gotta pay attention, it's a god sittin' amongst you and you know it
The money that was made couldn't be scared money (couldn't be scared money)
I had no one to put up the bread for me (I had no one)
It's hot on the block, still milkin' change from it (milkin' change from it)
If it ain't 'bout the guap, I stay away from it (I stay away from it)
I ain't a stoner, but I smoke a lil' bit (smoke a lil' bit)
Relieve the stress when I roll up the spliff (relieve the stress)
We bendin' corners from whenever the wind (skrrt)
Spin the block, then we at it again (correct)
Stalley's song "Scared Money" intricately explores the themes of hustle, resilience, and the complexities of personal ambition in a challenging environment. The repetition of the phrase "the money that was made couldn't be scared money" serves as a powerful mantra that encapsulates the artist's belief in the importance of fearlessness when it comes to financial gain. This line underscores the idea that any success achieved without courage is not truly worthy. Stalley emphasizes his solitary struggle, stating that he had no one to "put up the bread for me," which speaks not only to a lack of financial backing but also to a deeper sense of independence. The imagery of a hot block, where he "milkin’ change from it," evokes the harsh realities of street life, where every penny counts and survival is often an uphill battle. He intentionally distances himself from anything that doesn't contribute to his financial goals, highlighting a singular focus on wealth-building.
As the song progresses, Stalley delves into the nature of his hustle. He describes a relentless pursuit that is "’round the clock," indicating that the grind never stops, and fear is rejected as a barrier to success. The phrase "denounce fear" portrays a sense of empowerment; he adopts a mindset that prioritizes ambition over caution. Stalley’s reference to "big wheels on the curb" symbolizes success and stability, while the action of sparking a joint in front of the NYPD juxtaposes his lifestyle against societal expectations and legalities. This display of bravado is further emphasized through his confrontation of authority, suggesting that he is confident and unafraid of the repercussions of his actions. The celebratory imagery—"chains sparkin' like the Fourth of July"—reveals not only material wealth but also the joy and excitement that accompany personal success.
In the lyrics, the artist reflects on external perceptions and societal dynamics, mentioning "they love to hate us" and alluding to the complexities and contradictions of living in a spotlight. The shoutout to "Barbara Davis" offers a glimpse into his personal life, perhaps drawing on memories or inspiration from a significant figure who has impacted him. The subsequent metaphors likening himself to Randy Moss on the Raiders suggest a sense of pride and athleticism amid the challenges he faces, asserting that he stands out and excels despite opposition. Stalley captures a nuanced view of fame and fortune, admitting that he desires space and luxury without losing sight of his roots and the people around him. The language reflects this balance of ambition and appreciation for foundational values, placing emphasis on not becoming complacent.
The closing lines bring us full circle back to the initial theme of money and hustle, reiterating that every financial gain must come from a place of courage and determination. Stalley's acknowledgment of escaping the intimidation often associated with poverty—"I ain't a stoner, but I smoke a lil' bit"—indicates that he seeks relief or escape through small vices, subtly suggesting that while his life may be challenging, he finds ways to cope with the pressures surrounding him. The recurring refrain of staying focused on "guap" and the cyclical nature of spinning the block reinforces a sense of urgency and resilience. With each pass through the streets, there's an understanding that every challenge brings him closer to his goals. The song ultimately serves as a celebration of self-made success, where the fear of failure is confronted head-on in an affirming declaration of his journey and determination to rise above the chaos.
Line by Line Meaning
The money that was made couldn't be scared money (couldn't be scared money)
The wealth I accumulated was not acquired through fear or hesitation.
I had no one to put up the bread for me (I had no one)
I did not have any support or assistance from others in terms of financial backing.
It's hot on the block, still milkin' change from it (milkin' change from it)
The neighborhood is dangerous, yet I'm still making small profits despite the risks.
If it ain't 'bout the guap, I stay away from it (I stay away from it)
If it doesn't involve making money, I don't engage with it.
I ain't a stoner, but I smoke a lil' bit (smoke a lil' bit)
I don't regularly indulge in cannabis, but I partake occasionally to relax.
Relieve the stress when I roll up the spliff (relieve the stress)
I find comfort and relief from pressure when I smoke.
We bendin' corners from whenever the wind (skrrt)
We navigate the streets swiftly, adapting to the circumstances around us.
Spin the block, then we at it again (correct)
We circle back to familiar routes and continue our hustle.
The hustle don't stop, it's 'round the clock here
My pursuit of success is relentless and continuous, without breaks.
When it comes to gettin' paper, we denounce fear
In the quest for wealth, we reject fear and embrace boldness.
I know that's a big word, very cavalier
I understand that 'denounce' is a significant term, signifying confidence in my approach.
Big wheels on the curb, we park it right there
We drive impressive vehicles and park them confidently where we please.
Spark the tree in front of NYPD
I smoke marijuana openly, even in front of law enforcement.
It's legal now, fuck they gon' do to me?
Since cannabis is legal now, I feel secure in my actions.
On my hippa 1 to 3, I ain't risking my life
I prioritize my safety and well-being above all else.
Plottin' and schemin' these cowards wishin' I hide
While others may wish for me to stay hidden, I am actively planning my next moves.
I'm outside middle of summer, chains sparkin' like the Fourth of July
During the peak of summer, I'm adorned with flashy jewelry that catches attention.
Parking lot look like The Dupont, a fortunate guy
The scene around me is extravagant, reflecting my success and good fortune.
My fortune the size of Scrooge McDuck
I have accumulated wealth comparable to the iconic wealthy character Scrooge McDuck.
I'm swimmin' in women, I'm lappin' it up like the girls in the back of the Rolls-Royce truck
I am surrounded by attractive women and enjoying life to the fullest.
The money that was made couldn't be scared money (couldn't be scared money)
The wealth I accumulated was not acquired through fear or hesitation.
I had no one to put up the bread for me (I had no one)
I did not have any support or assistance from others in terms of financial backing.
It's hot on the block, still milkin' change from it (milkin' change from it)
The neighborhood is dangerous, yet I'm still making small profits despite the risks.
If it ain't 'bout the guap, I stay away from it (I stay away from it)
If it doesn't involve making money, I don't engage with it.
I ain't a stoner, but I smoke a lil' bit (smoke a lil' bit)
I don't regularly indulge in cannabis, but I partake occasionally to relax.
Relieve the stress when I roll up the spliff (relieve the stress)
I find comfort and relief from pressure when I smoke.
We bendin' corners from whenever the wind (skrrt)
We navigate the streets swiftly, adapting to the circumstances around us.
Spin the block, then we at it again (correct)
We circle back to familiar routes and continue our hustle.
Ayo, look, rest in peace to Barbara Davis, we hit another layer
I pay homage to Barbara Davis while acknowledging my own personal growth.
When she speak to me, it's like she sayin' prayers
Her words resonate with me deeply, feeling as if they hold spiritual significance.
I feel like Randy Moss when he was on the Raiders
I feel like a legendary figure who commands respect and recognition.
Man, they love to hate us
Despite our success, there are those who take pleasure in our struggles.
This woman so fine, I give her cash payments
I am so attracted to this woman that I lavish her with money.
Baby, I'm just so glued to the basics
I prioritize simplicity and foundational aspects of my life.
I wanted more room, so I copped a crib sittin' adjacent, uh
I sought more space for myself, so I bought a larger home nearby.
In this hoop world, I'm Freddy, Jason
In my competitive environment, I take on a powerful and fearsome persona.
I'm sittin' in the places of great, but never complacent
I occupy successful spaces while always striving for more without settling.
Yeah, baby, I'm a stoner
I openly embrace my identity as someone who enjoys cannabis.
Yeah, I took that long walk up the hill that made me a loner
I've endured challenging experiences that have led to my solitude.
And nah, baby, I don't like bein' humble, I hang with mongrels
I prefer to be bold and confident rather than modest and I associate with those who are unapologetically themselves.
Gotta pay attention, it's a god sittin' amongst you and you know it
It's important to recognize greatness in others and their potential presence in your life.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Kyle Myricks
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@CartoonConnect
KD went CRAAAAZYYYYYYY
@Luther730
Nah fr..Def replay value
@BigDiesel1989
Darius
@Macodythemetta
I take slight inspiration from carti can y’all check my music out I’m tryna build a fanbase?.
@johnhill762
@@Luther730fr fr
@alexandercoffman8319
I agree.
@indigameriseminalindian
Damn, KD really had some substance and a good cadence.
@LowKeyDee1620
KD spittin 🔥
@avocadoo4387
And surbadence
@TravisJenkinsNOCC
He been spittin tho he just wouldn't put that shit