As a teen, Al began to identify strongly with the rebellious lyrics and urban sounds of hip-hop, and he began writing his own lyrics as a creative outlet. He joined up with other like-minded artists who wrote lyrics and rebelled strongly against their "uptight" suburban surroundings, among whom were Shifty Shellshock of Crazy Town, Evidence of Dilated Peoples and Scott Caan, son of James Caan. They would often hang out in urban areas of Los Angeles and participated in typical teenage rebellious activities like partying, smoking marijuana, and general mischief.
Al and Scott decided to become a duo named The Whooliganz. While rhyming at a party in L.A., they attracted the attention of B-Real of Cypress Hill. He invited the teens to join his crew, The Soul Assassins, which also included the groups House of Pain and Funkdoobiest. In 1993, the Whooliganz released their first single, "Put Your Handz Up." The song received little radio airplay and their record label, Tommy Boy Records, decided to shelve their album. Rejected, Scott focused his creative energy on acting while Al became interested in process of making hip-hop beats.
DJ Muggs took Al under his wing and taught him how to use a sampler and mixing board. After helping to produce a few tracks for Cypress Hill, Al became the main producer for his childhood friend, Evidence and his group Dilated Peoples. When Dilated debuted in 1998, they were an underground sensation creating a huge buzz about the man behind those incredible beats.
In 1999, Muggs introduced Al to his good friends, the popular hip-hop group Mobb Deep. Al produced two songs for their Murda Muzik album. Impressed by his production skills and street smarts, Mobb Deep took him under their wing, using his beats on all their subsequent albums. As Alchemist's profile increased, he went on to produce for many of hip hop's most successful and prominent artists, such as Nas, Fat Joe, Jadakiss, Ghostface Killah and Snoop Dogg. He has also remixed songs for bands and artists in other genres such as Linkin Park and Morcheeba. Al stayed loyal to his old friends, continuing to produce for Dilated, Cypress Hill, Everlast (formerly of House of Pain) and Crazy Town. He also enjoys producing for lesser-known underground rappers, often giving them some of his best beats. In 2004, 11 years after his rapping career folded, The Alchemist returned with his long-awaited debut album, "1st Infantry." The album yielded the hit single "Hold You Down" (featuring Prodigy, Illa Ghee, and Nina Sky), which hit number ninety-five on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2005.
Alchemist was the official tour DJ for Eminem on his 2005 Anger Management 3 Tour, replacing the recently-ousted DJ Green Lantern. However on July 13, 2005, the tour bus carrying Eminem's entourage (including rapper Stat Quo as well as Alchemist) swerved off the road and turned over. Alchemist was treated for broken ribs and a collapsed lung.
The Alchemist is one of the music producers behind the video game Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars released by Rockstar Games. He was also on Tim Westwood TV, when Eminem, Royce Da 5'9" and Mr. Porter freestyled. During an interview with Worldwide Conspiracy Radio, The Alchemist revealed he would be dropping a 2-part project with fellow West Coast producer Oh No entitled Gangrene, the first to be released in July, the second in November, both on Decon. Alchemist was also the DJ for the Eminem set on the BBC1 chat-show Jonathan Ross on June 4, 2010.
Alchemist is Eminem's official DJ, since DJ Green Lantern departed from Shady Records in 2005 because of a dispute related to the feud of 50 Cent and Jadakiss. In 2006, Eminem released a collaboration album with Shady Records called Eminem Presents: The Re-Up. Since the Alchemist is his official DJ, he produced some of the tracks on the mixtape, as well as compiling the album in a mixtape fashion. On December 18, 2013, he was named the runner-up for Producer of the Year by HipHopDX.
Troubles
The Alchemist Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Well, it stem from some cocaine deal gone bad
Okay, okay, look
Man have cocaine fi man, man have money fi cocaine, fi that, that, that
The politician dem involved
I grew up squeezin' pistols outta smoking rentals
That caddy was like candy, it ran through her dental, uh
I guess I'm solid
Since they judge you on the shit you been through
Who you kin to? Who you friends with?
It ain't no dead weight, it's only deadlifts
Headshots, leave a neck slit
When it come to ballin', I hope your niggas set picks
Look, we gotta score
End up on the shore with some Spanish bitches
Each one of 'em mi amor
Classic like the Diadoras and woodgrain rifles
The company I keep, I consider 'em idols
Look, God mode
You can't see me even if you lost that blindfold
You can't beat me, I gorilla, bitch, this Congo, concrete jungle
I know some niggas who lost weight but never lost they muscle
I know some niggas who lost weight but never lost they hustle
Everything scandalous, bitch, them Rugers is muzzled, killer
Just caught a body in my sleep, I need a dream chaser
Pics of John Gotti and me, saved on my screensaver
I put some money on your head, that's a quick weave
Bet they won't even notice he was missin' 'til a week later
I put in pain for this shit, this ain't no cheap labor
'Cause when it come to felonies, it ain't no free favors
Lined him up with two of his mans, gave 'em three tapers
Motherfuck the blender, we gon' put him in the cheese grater (check out the rest now)
Yeah, where we at? (Send him in pieces)
From the land of the scant, to the home of the scurvy
Could never put my stamp on it 'cause he was never sturdy
How I look beefin' with some niggas I ain't never heard of?
Youngin', he ain't never caught a sentence, quick to catch a murder
Trappin' out of state in Louis V., Supreme
Slappin' all this bass, I show you why they call me B.B. King
Better leave a nigga be 'cause if I'm feelin' bothered
Them niggas with them .223s quick to kill a toddler
Wicked thoughts of a demon committing cardinal sin
Pray it keep me shielded from the evil in the hearts of men
Got stripped of all them precious metals that was gold-plated
Lucifer's advocate, the Devil got my soul tainted
Ankle monitor on my foot, out on the type of Bond
Baby Saigon, come to my hood, it look like Lebanon
I'll walk you down with that drum like the second line
And leave your brains on the curb, but don't pay me no never mind
Blockworks
No, you can't have it
No? (No), oh, that's um
Okay (oh, 'cause it's)
Kinda feel like it though (yeah, you, yeah, you can twirl it around though)
Oh, no, no, no, it wouldn't do me any good, actually
That's alright, um
Misunderstood
The lyrics of "Troubles" by The Alchemist & Budgie featuring Your Old Droog explore themes of violence, street life, and the consequences of criminal activities. The opening lines suggest that the troubles discussed in the song are related to cocaine dealing and involve the participation of politicians.
The first verse dives into the singer's upbringing in a dangerous environment, where they recall handling guns and driving in stolen cars. The mention of Alchemist on instrumentals suggests that he was involved in the production of the song. The lyrics emphasize the importance of one's past experiences and associations in shaping their identity. The line "it ain't no dead weight, it's only deadlifts" implies that the singer surrounds themselves with individuals who contribute positively to their goals, such as setting screens in basketball.
The lyrics then shift to depict a lavish lifestyle, mentioning being on the beach with Spanish women and possessing expensive clothing and guns. The company the singer keeps is considered idols, possibly suggesting that they are admired for their success or influence in the streets. The lyrics hint at a sense of invincibility, referring to "God mode" and the ability to conquer any challenges.
Your Old Droog's verse continues with vivid descriptions of violence, asserting his dominance and prowess. The reference to John Gotti, the American mobster, portrays a fascination with organized crime. The lyrics also mention putting money on someone's head and inflicting harm, highlighting a ruthless and dangerous mindset. There is a disregard for human life and a lack of remorse for their actions.
The lyrics then touch on the singer's experiences with felonies and the necessary sacrifices made for success in criminal activities. The references to revenge and extreme violence reinforce the harsh realities of their lifestyle. The mention of a cheese grater as a method of disposal further illustrates their ruthlessness and lack of empathy.
The final lines of the song suggest a sense of detachment and misinterpretation in society. The singer refers to being misunderstood, perhaps highlighting the difficulty in conveying their true intentions or experiences to others. The overall tone of the song is dark, gritty, and confrontational, delving into the complexities and consequences of a life steeped in crime.
Line by Line Meaning
If it's not cocaine-related (uh)
Well, it stem from some cocaine deal gone bad
I grew up squeezin' pistols outta smoking rentals
I had a rough upbringing, living a dangerous life involving guns
That caddy was like candy, it ran through her dental, uh
That Cadillac car was irresistible, it drove her crazy
This yellow tape with Alchemist on instrumentals
This music with Alchemist producing the beats is a classic
I guess I'm solid
I suppose I can be relied upon and trusted
Since they judge you on the shit you been through
People assess your character based on the difficult experiences you've faced
Who you kin to? Who you friends with?
Who are your family and close associates?
It ain't no dead weight, it's only deadlifts
There are no useless burdens, only opportunities for strength
Headshots, leave a neck slit
Precise shots to the head result in a deadly wound
When it come to ballin', I hope your niggas set picks
In basketball terms, I hope your friends support and help you succeed
Look, we gotta score
We need to achieve success or accomplish our goals
End up on the shore with some Spanish bitches
To end up in a desirable location with attractive women
Each one of 'em mi amor
Each one of them is my love
Classic like the Diadoras and woodgrain rifles
Timeless and stylish like the Diadora sneakers and wooden rifles
The company I keep, I consider 'em idols
I highly regard the people I associate with as my role models
Look, God mode
I feel invincible, like I have god-like abilities
You can't see me even if you lost that blindfold
Even if you remove the blindfold that obstructs your vision, you still won't be able to comprehend me
You can't beat me, I gorilla, bitch, this Congo, concrete jungle
You cannot defeat me, I dominate like a wild gorilla in this tough urban environment
I know some niggas who lost weight but never lost they muscle
I know people who faced adversity but remained strong and skilled
Everything scandalous, bitch, them Rugers is muzzled, killer
Everything is full of deceit and danger, I keep my firearms hidden and silent, I'm a dangerous person
Just caught a body in my sleep, I need a dream chaser
I unconsciously committed murder, I need something to distract me from my dark deeds
Pics of John Gotti and me, saved on my screensaver
I have pictures of the infamous gangster John Gotti along with myself, stored on my computer's screensaver
I put some money on your head, that's a quick weave
I placed a bounty on your life, it's a swift and efficient action
Bet they won't even notice he was missin' 'til a week later
I wager they wouldn't even realize he went missing until a week has passed
I put in pain for this shit, this ain't no cheap labor
I endured suffering and hardship for this lifestyle, it's not an easy task
'Cause when it come to felonies, it ain't no free favors
When it comes to committing serious crimes, there are no favors or assistance given for free
Lined him up with two of his mans, gave 'em three tapers
I orchestrated a plan to trap him with two of his friends and gave them three doses of drugs
Motherfuck the blender, we gon' put him in the cheese grater (check out the rest now)
We don't need to use excessive force, we will torture him by putting him in a cheese grater instead (continue reading the lyrics)
Yeah, where we at? (Send him in pieces)
Yeah, where are we located? (Disposing his body in separate parts)
From the land of the scant, to the home of the scurvy
From a place of scarcity and poverty, to a place riddled with disease and decay
Could never put my stamp on it 'cause he was never sturdy
I could never associate myself with him because he was never dependable or reliable
How I look beefin' with some niggas I ain't never heard of?
Why would I engage in a conflict with unfamiliar people?
Youngin', he ain't never caught a sentence, quick to catch a murder
The young person I know has never been convicted of a crime, but is quick to commit murder
Trappin' out of state in Louis V., Supreme
Engaged in drug dealing outside of our home state, wearing luxury Louis Vuitton and Supreme brands
Slappin' all this bass, I show you why they call me B.B. King
Playing high-pitched music with heavy bass, demonstrating my skill and earning the nickname B.B. King
Better leave a nigga be 'cause if I'm feelin' bothered
It's wiser to leave me alone, as if I become irritated
Them niggas with them .223s quick to kill a toddler
Those individuals with .223 caliber firearms are swift to commit acts of violence, even involving innocent children
Wicked thoughts of a demon committing cardinal sin
Disturbing and evil thoughts of a demonic nature, engaging in serious immoral actions
Pray it keep me shielded from the evil in the hearts of men
I hope that a higher power protects me from the evil intentions and desires of humanity
Got stripped of all them precious metals that was gold-plated
I was stripped of all the valuable possessions that were only superficially valuable
Lucifer's advocate, the Devil got my soul tainted
I am a supporter of Lucifer, and the Devil has corrupted and tarnished my soul
Ankle monitor on my foot, out on the type of Bond
I am currently being monitored with an ankle bracelet, as if I was on a type of bail bond
Baby Saigon, come to my hood, it look like Lebanon
Come to my neighborhood, it appears to be a chaotic and war-torn place, similar to Lebanon
I'll walk you down with that drum like the second line
I will accompany you with a musical instrument, like in a festive parade procession
And leave your brains on the curb, but don't pay me no never mind
I will shoot you in the head, leaving your brains on the pavement, but don't bother paying attention to me
No, you can't have it
No, you are not allowed to possess it
No? (No), oh, that's um
No? (No), oh, that's interesting
Okay (oh, 'cause it's)
Alright (oh, because it is)
Kinda feel like it though (yeah, you, yeah, you can twirl it around though)
I sort of have a sense that it might be possible (yeah, you, yeah, you can spin it around though)
Oh, no, no, no, it wouldn't do me any good, actually
Oh, no, no, no, it would not benefit me in any way, actually
That's alright, um
That's fine, um
Misunderstood
Not properly understood
Lyrics ยฉ O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Daniel Alan Maman
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Fendi Pendergrass
Boldy and AL the best duo
Izanami Empire
As i do agree with you, yuh gotta admit Al nd Earl is the BEST duo
Anthony Isaiah
This new got me buggin. But yeah still my fav duo๐น
Anthony Isaiah
That new EarlChemist
Josh Orlowsky
T.F. Always making his presence known. Such an underrated artist.
haneef shaheed
TF gave me Nipsey and Stove vibes, and Iโm not mad at it, AT ALL ๐ช๐พ๐ค๐ช๐พ!!!
Niko Levin
One of the most outrageous beats Iโve ever heard
Ryan Hansen
Legit unmistakably an alchemist beat. Dude been making nothing but fire
Dystopic
TF & Boldy? What a combo!
Ira Godbolt
This beat is storytelling. I love it shit is fire ๐ฅ