One recurring theme in the track is naming some of the many esteemed artists whom he has worked with, namely: 2Pac, Eminem, Corey Taylor, Twista, Lil Wayne, Kendrick Lamar, T.I., 2 Chainz, B.o.B, Hopsin and Joyner Lucas.
Like I Ain't
Tech N9ne Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Like I ain't finna bust when my homeboy make the fuckin' beat drop
Bustin' a cap in the wack when I'm rappin'
You really need to trust in the fact that I'm back and I'm slappin'
The industry for ducking the cat when he rap with a passion
When I'm in this piece, I crush in a fashion
Like I ain't never ate in this game (Chuh)
Like I ain't never seen or had me some big thangs
And kinky parties that it could lift the spirit of Rick James (Jesus)
Like I ain't a fixture and never knew Twista
And never did music for the Alpha Dog picture
Like I never script the pledge in the scripture
Or had a hit song 'bout my own liquor mixture
Do it like I wasn't a starter that was on the Carter (Weezy)
Wasn't in art of my cousin, the Water (Fizzy)
Nothing was bartered, we're bussin' and touchin' the heart of
People that's lovin' the hardest stuff ain't no charted (Pleasies) (Chuh)
Like I never got signed (Woah)
Not a one, not a two but three times (Chuh)
Like I never did get the cheddar or see shine
Like it's sleep time for peeps' minds on T9
Like, if these rhymes (What?) really never ever happened (Chuh)
'Til right now, like pow, I got it crackin'
With the pen and pad, without no back end
Tryna stack and get action
And pull the cash in is the way that I'm rappin'
Like I ain't rich, like I ain't sold
Not a ne'er record Platinum or ne'er Gold
Like I ain't dripped, like I ain't froze
Like I ain't made a quarter mill' for a show
Like I ain't big, like I ain't huge
Like I ain't shit, like I ain't pay dues
Like I ain't full, like I ain't cool
Like I ain't build a empire in the 'Zou
Like I, like I ain't
Toured with the Jay Rock, with the homie K-Dot
Like I ain't never had the allure for the pay slots
Stressin', like I didn't step in the session with the Seven
Never guessin' the effin' cure is to spray thoughts (Brrt)
Like I never had a shot (Pow)
Or a song with the white guy Dre got (Woo)
Like I didn't have a lay lock
Never went on the set of Ballers with Mr. Baywatch (USO)
Like I didn't meet Trav yet, like I never had assets
Bad with the pen, but never cashed checks
Rappin' like I ain't even close to havin' the bag yet (No)
Like I'm tryna be the best up in this hip-hop (Chuh)
And do a track with the king of Atlanta, T.I.P.-top (Chuh)
Then turn around and go switch it up, and do big rock
Tryna ride all the way up to my homie in Slipknot (Maggot, chuh)
Like I never heard fans yell it
Not The Calm, not The Worst, even Anghellic (Word)
Before they told me that I can't sell it
Before I went to the reunion of fam', Nelly
Like I didn't have this new watch (Chuh)
And it never would tic and never do toc (Chuh)
Like I'm rapping myself into learnin' brew hops
Rappin' like I ain't never did a record with 2Pac
Like I ain't rich, like I ain't sold
Not a ne'er record Platinum or ne'er Gold
Like I ain't dripped, like I ain't froze
Like I ain't made a quarter mill' for a show
Like I ain't big, like I ain't huge
Like I ain't shit, like I ain't pay dues
Like I ain't full, like I ain't cool
Like I ain't build a empire in the Zou
Like I, like I ain't
Skippin' my job, yeah (Yeah), like this is a process
Try'na get from the projects, so I spit like I got next (Woo)
And I trip if you object (Yeah), like I'm itchin' to fly, Tech
Whipping in kitchens with Pyrex (Woo), to the mission that God set (Yes!)
For me, rippin' these quick and will not rest
Like no flippin', Techn9cian is obsessed (Chuh)
Like I didn't know when I was droppin' (Chuh)
Independent music, I wasn't toppin' (Chuh)
And all the bad bitches wasn't jockin'
I rap like I didn't know I'd do a record with Hopsin (Chuh)
They call me Tecca N9na, I'ma shoot this
If you're dissin', you really don't wanna do this
Niggas wanna try me, then you're gonna lose it
I rap like I never did a record with Joyner Lucas (Hungry)
Like I never knew maestros
Like I didn't know Trae was a asshole
Like I didn't have a stash full of cash flow
Rappin' like I am back in the past with my afro
Like I never ever knew Strange
Would put the name Tech N9ne in my shoe strings (Chuh)
Like I didn't know I was spittin' the butane
And I grew fame with the homie Bobby and 2 Chainz
Like I ain't rich, like I ain't sold (Yeah)
Not a ne'er record Platinum or ne'er Gold
Like I ain't dripped, like I ain't froze
Like I ain't made a quarter mill' for a show
Like I ain't big, like I ain't huge
Like I ain't shit, like I ain't pay dues
Like I ain't full, like I ain't cool
Like I ain't build a empire in the Zou
Like I, like I ain't
Strange Music
2019 and beyond, baby
This shit crazy
Tech N9ne, baby
In this song, Tech N9ne expresses the idea that he should be appreciated and respected for his talent and contributions to the music industry. The opening lines say, "Like I ain't on 1, 2, 3-Pac, like I ain't finna bust when my homeboy make the fuckin' beat drop," which means that he is comparable to the legendary artist Tupac in terms of his ability to deliver powerful lyrics. N9ne then goes on to say that he should be recognized for his passion and dedication to his craft, stating that he has "never script the pledge in the scripture" and "had a hit song 'bout my own liquor mixture."
In the chorus, N9ne continues to assert himself, saying that he should not be underestimated, despite his lack of mainstream success. He raps, "Like I ain't rich, like I ain't sold, not a ne'er record Platinum or ne'er Gold." He then goes on to list his accomplishments, such as making "a quarter mill' for a show" and building "an empire in the 'Zou" (referring to his home state of Missouri).
The second verse of the song has N9ne discussing his collaborations with other artists, such as Jay Rock, Kendrick Lamar, and T.I. He also touches on his independent music career and his relationship with his record label, Strange Music. N9ne emphasizes his work ethic, stating that he is "rippin' these quick and will not rest" and that he is "obsessed" with his craft.
Line by Line Meaning
Ayy, like I ain't on 1, 2, 3-Pac
Acting like I'm not as influential and iconic as Tupac Shakur
Like I ain't finna bust when my homeboy make the fuckin' beat drop
Acting like I won't deliver a powerful performance when my friend produces an amazing beat
Bustin' a cap in the wack when I'm rappin'
Taking down inferior rappers with my exceptional skills
You really need to trust in the fact that I'm back and I'm slappin'
Requesting listeners to have faith in my talent and recognize my comeback with strong, impactful verses
The industry for ducking the cat when he rap with a passion
The music industry tends to avoid and overlook my passionate rap performances
When I'm in this piece, I crush in a fashion
I dominate the music scene with confidence and style
Like I ain't never ate in this game (Chuh)
Acting like I haven't already achieved success in the music industry
Like I ain't never seen or had me some big thangs
Denying the experiences of witnessing and obtaining significant achievements
Like I ain't been around the world and with so many different girls
Disregarding my international travels and encounters with numerous women
And kinky parties that it could lift the spirit of Rick James (Jesus)
Participating in wild parties that even the legendary Rick James would appreciate
Like I ain't a fixture and never knew Twista
Pretending I'm not a well-established figure in the industry and disregarding my relationship with Twista
And never did music for the Alpha Dog picture
Acting like I didn't create music for the soundtrack of the movie 'Alpha Dog'
Like I never script the pledge in the scripture
Dismissing the fact that I've written powerful verses with deep meaning and significance
Or had a hit song 'bout my own liquor mixture
Forgetting about the successful track I made regarding my own signature alcoholic beverage
Do it like I wasn't a starter that was on the Carter (Weezy)
Acting as if I wasn't a crucial and notable artist associated with Lil Wayne and his 'Carter' albums
Wasn't in art of my cousin, the Water (Fizzy)
Disregarding my involvement in my cousin's music project, 'The Water'
Nothing was bartered, we're bussin' and touchin' the heart of
No compromises were made, and we are delivering heartfelt performances
People that's lovin' the hardest stuff ain't no charted (Pleasies) (Chuh)
My dedicated fans appreciate my music even though it may not always top the charts
Like I never got signed (Woah)
Rejecting the notion of being signed to a record label
Not a one, not a two but three times (Chuh)
Emphasizing that I've been signed three separate times, showcasing my value and popularity
Like I never did get the cheddar or see shine
Denying the financial success and recognition I've achieved
Like it's sleep time for peeps' minds on T9
Implying that people underestimate my lyrical abilities and overlook my talent
Like, if these rhymes (What?) really never ever happened (Chuh)
Speculating that my rhymes are a fabrication and have never occurred
'Til right now, like pow, I got it crackin'
Asserting that my current performance is real and impactful
With the pen and pad, without no back end
Creating music purely from my own creativity, without relying on financial incentives
Tryna stack and get action
Striving to accumulate wealth and make moves in the industry
And pull the cash in is the way that I'm rappin'
Generating income through my rap skills is my primary focus
Like I ain't rich, like I ain't sold
Dismissing my wealth and commercial success
Not a ne'er record Platinum or ne'er Gold
Denying the achievement of having no platinum or gold-selling records
Like I ain't dripped, like I ain't froze
Acting as if I haven't flaunted expensive jewelry and fashion
Like I ain't made a quarter mill' for a show
Pretending I haven't earned a substantial amount of money for each live performance
Like I ain't big, like I ain't huge
Refusing to acknowledge my significant status and widespread popularity
Like I ain't shit, like I ain't pay dues
Belittling myself and disregarding the hard work and sacrifices I've made to reach this point
Like I ain't full, like I ain't cool
Acting as if I'm not satisfied and content with my success
Like I ain't build a empire in the 'Zou
Denying the fact that I've established a successful music empire in my hometown of Kansas City ('Zou)
Toured with the Jay Rock, with the homie K-Dot
Highlighting my experiences touring with Jay Rock and Kendrick Lamar
Like I ain't never had the allure for the pay slots
Acting as if I've never been desired and sought after for high-paying performance opportunities
Stressin', like I didn't step in the session with the Seven
Feeling pressure and showcasing my skills as if I haven't previously collaborated with Seven, a talented producer
Never guessin' the effin' cure is to spray thoughts (Brrt)
Surprising others with my ability to heal and inspire through my lyrical expressions
Like I never had a shot (Pow)
Disregarding the opportunities and chances I've been given to succeed
Or a song with the white guy Dre got (Woo)
Acting like I haven't collaborated with the renowned white artist Dre
Like I didn't have a lay lock
Denying the fact that I had exclusive access and success in the music industry
Never went on the set of Ballers with Mr. Baywatch (USO)
Acting like I never appeared on the TV show Ballers alongside Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson
Like I didn't meet Trav yet, like I never had assets
Pretending I haven't met Travis O'Guin, the co-founder of Strange Music, and haven't accumulated valuable assets
Bad with the pen, but never cashed checks
Imagining a scenario where I'm not skilled at writing lyrics, but I've still earned significant income
Rappin' like I ain't even close to havin' the bag yet (No)
Expressing my determination to continue working hard until I achieve financial success
Like I'm tryna be the best up in this hip-hop (Chuh)
Believing that I can become the top artist in the hip-hop genre
And do a track with the king of Atlanta, T.I.P.-top (Chuh)
Aspiring to collaborate with the highly respected Atlanta rapper, T.I.
Then turn around and go switch it up, and do big rock
Exploring different musical styles by transitioning to rock music
Tryna ride all the way up to my homie in Slipknot (Maggot, chuh)
Striving to reach the same level of success as my friend in the band Slipknot
Like I never heard fans yell it
Acting as if I've never experienced the support and excitement of my fans
Not The Calm, not The Worst, even Anghellic (Word)
Ignoring the appreciation and recognition I've received for albums like 'The Calm,' 'The Worst,' and 'Anghellic'
Before they told me that I can't sell it
Recalling the criticism I faced before proving doubters wrong by achieving commercial success
Before I went to the reunion of fam', Nelly
Referring to my collaboration with Nelly before we both attended a family reunion
Like I didn't have this new watch (Chuh)
Acting like I haven't acquired a luxurious new watch
And it never would tic and never do toc (Chuh)
Imagining a situation where my watch doesn't function and doesn't make any noise
Like I'm rapping myself into learnin' brew hops
Using rap as a means to educate myself about different beer brewing techniques
Rappin' like I ain't never did a record with 2Pac
Disregarding the fact that I've collaborated on a track with the legendary 2Pac
Skippin' my job, yeah (Yeah), like this is a process
Avoiding my usual responsibilities and focusing on the creative process of making music
Try'na get from the projects, so I spit like I got next (Woo)
Striving to escape my disadvantaged background and showcasing my talent as if I'm the next big thing
And I trip if you object (Yeah), like I'm itchin' to fly, Tech
Getting defensive if anyone criticizes or opposes me, as if I'm eager to prove them wrong
Whipping in kitchens with Pyrex (Woo), to the mission that God set (Yes!)
Cooking up rhymes with intensity in the studio, fulfilling the purpose and mission that God has assigned for me
For me, rippin' these quick and will not rest
Expressing my dedication to delivering rapid-fire verses and refusing to take breaks
Like no flippin', Techn9cian is obsessed (Chuh)
Being obsessive and relentless in my pursuit of perfection, as a dedicated fan of my music knows
Like I didn't know when I was droppin' (Chuh)
Ignoring my awareness of when I release new music
Independent music, I wasn't toppin' (Chuh)
Acting as if I haven't achieved success as an independent artist
And all the bad bitches wasn't jockin'
Denying the attention and attraction I receive from beautiful women
I rap like I didn't know I'd do a record with Hopsin (Chuh)
Performing as if I had no knowledge of my collaboration with Hopsin
They call me Tecca N9na, I'ma shoot this
Embracing my nickname Tecca N9na and indicating that I'm going to deliver an exceptional performance
If you're dissin', you really don't wanna do this
Warning anyone who dares to criticize or insult me that they will regret it
Niggas wanna try me, then you're gonna lose it
Challenging those who want to test me, suggesting that they will face consequences
I rap like I never did a record with Joyner Lucas (Hungry)
Denying the existence of my collaboration with Joyner Lucas and performing as if it never happened
Like I never knew maestros
Acting as if I haven't worked with talented individuals in the music industry
Like I didn't know Trae was a asshole
Ignoring my knowledge of Trae being difficult to work with
Like I didn't have a stash full of cash flow
Dismissing the fact that I possess a significant amount of money
Rappin' like I am back in the past with my afro
Performing as if I'm transported to the past with my afro hairstyle
Like I never ever knew Strange
Acting like I have no familiarity or connection with Strange Music, the independent record label I co-founded
Would put the name Tech N9ne in my shoe strings (Chuh)
Surprised by the fact that the label decided to include my name on their merchandise
Like I didn't know I was spittin' the butane
Pretending I didn't realize the intensity and fire in my lyrics
And I grew fame with the homie Bobby and 2 Chainz
Gaining fame and recognition alongside my friends Bobby (B.o.B) and 2 Chainz
Strange Music
Acknowledging the record label Strange Music
2019 and beyond, baby
Looking towards the future beyond the year 2019
This shit crazy
Expressing astonishment and excitement about the current situation
Tech N9ne, baby
Referring to myself, Tech N9ne
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management
Written by: Aaron Yates, Frederikus Van Workum, Hendric Buenck, Nick Luscombe, Travis O'guin
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@jessiejoy1703
Future Kids wanna compare to shit that’s not nearly as good?
Taylor swifts new song has over 150 million views
Lil dicky earth has around 75 million views (deserved)
Oh and Clout by offset has over 50 million views
Compared to tech n9ne having 3 million views
I never said he doesn’t get credit, I said not near the credit he deserves. He’s up there with Eminem, 2pac, and Nas.
Fuck off haha
@speaks3023
Imagine being diverse enough to make a song with
-Eminem
-Tupac
-Kendrick Lamar
-ice cube
-Serj Tankian
- Wiz Khalifa
- Busta rhymes
- slipknot
-lil Wayne
-Twista
-E-40
-joyner Lucas
-hopsin
-Rittz
-bone thugs n harmony
-his own kids
- iMayday
-Logic
-B.o.B
- d12
- ces cru
-Roger trout
-token
-twisted insane
-king iso
-Scarface
-Krizz Kaliko
-dizzy wright
-jELy roll
-korn -Corey Taylor
-MGK
-Snow tha product
-landxn fire
Etc.
How crazy would that be
@PiXimperfect
I really can't wrap my head around why Tech is so underrated! It's crazy!
@alexsalinas1296
Because tech don’t make music that pops for radio. I love tech but like shit like hood go crazy and everybody but me is what makes him liked for a month or 2. I still Jane to tech everyday tho
@alexsalinas1296
You will never listen to shit like “in the trunk”
“Hope for a higher power” “trapped in a psychos body” on the radio but there’s a lot of music that pops from tech that I think is radio worthy but still isn’t to the eyes of critics or radio stations owners. Maybe back in kc mo they play tech n9ne just like Houston radio stations play Paul wall, slim thug, z-ro, trae the truth
@yungmezabeats1446
🔴🔵🟡 I wrap around my head just dropped new legendary track STICK RIP look https://youtu.be/e1rrcu3iiyY
@ordinarybear7037
Bankers dictated by Ai run this game, and beyond that the rabbit holes keep going hidden a illusion.
Dax might be the Logos you looking for, worked on faster both did.
kind regards Legends
@OkayTimeToGo
I don't think he is underrated. Dude is hella famous. He just isn't "mainstream" or a sellout by choice so you don't hear about him in the media. Everyone knows he is one of the best rappers.
@xS3T0x
This man deserves this flex more than anyone, respect.
@TheBenNZ
@FreedomAin'tFree you know what they mean though, we’re all fans here friend.✌️🥳😎
@joshgaming3602
@FreedomAin'tFree smoke something bro
@shakykneesgaming
I grew up with Tech. He definitely deserves to flex. He evolved with the times and is still one of the tops 20 years later.