The Roots' original lineup included Black Thought (MC vocals) and Ahmir "?uestlove" Thompson (drums), who were classmates at the Philadelphia High School for Creative Performing Arts. As they began to play at school and on the streets, they added another MC named Malik B., bassist Leonard Hubbardand keyboardist Scott Storch. Another MC, Dice Raw, frequently made album appearances with the group from 1995 to 1999 before leaving to record a solo album. Scott Storch also left to pursue career as a producer following the Do You Want More?!!!??! album, He produced songs such as Still D.R.E. by Dr Dre. The Roots filled his void with another keyboardist, Kamal who is still a member. A beatboxer named Rahzel also joined the group and contributed from 1995-1999. Alongside Rahzel was vocal turntablist, Scratch who greatly contributed to The Roots' sound, most notably in live concerts. He left the group in 2003. Malik B. left the group in 2000. A guitarist, Ben Kenney, enjoyed a short stint with the group and contributed to their Phrenology album, but left to join Incubus. A percussionist, Knuckles, was added in 2002 and guitarist, Kirk Douglas (a.k.a. "Captain Kirk") repleaced Kenney. A vocalist, Martin Luther toured with The Roots in 2003 and 2004 and contributed to their album The Tipping Point. The current members of The Roots are Black Thought (MC vocals), ?uestlove (drums), Hub (bass), Kamal (keyboard), Knuckles (percussion), and Captain Kirk (guitar).
The Roots' debut album, Organix released in 1993, was actually a live recording from a concert in Germany that the Roots sold at their shows. The album earned enough industry buzz to earn the Roots offers from major record labels, and they signed with DGC records, which at the time was better known for its grunge music releases.
The Roots' first album for DGC, Do You Want More?!!!??! (recorded live without the use of samples), was a moderate hit on alternative radio. Their 1996 release Illadelph Halflife was the group's first album to crack the Top 40 on Billboard's album chart, spurred in part by MTV's airplay of the video for "What They Do", a parody of rap video clichés such as the "beatdown shot," and "Clones" which was their first to single to reach the top five on the rap charts.
In 1999, The Roots released Things Fall Apart (named after a novel by Chinua Achebe), their breakthrough album. The track "You Got Me", duet with R'n'B singer Erykah Badu, earned them a Grammy award for Best Rap Performance By A Duo Or Group.
In 2000, Dice Raw left the group to record his solo debut album, Reclaiming the Dead.
The Roots' reputation as a hip-hop live band made Jay-Z call on them for his MTV Unplugged album in 2002. The album featured good recreations of many of his great songs, played by the band with a little help from female vocalist Jaguar Wright.
2002's Phrenology introduced a more mainstream sound for the Roots, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album. The album's sales were boosted by radio and TV airplay for two duets on the album, "Break You Off" (featuring Musiq Soulchild) and "The Seed 2.0" (featuring Cody ChestnuTT). The video for "The Seed 2.0" earned a nomination for the MTV2 Award at the 2003 MTV Video Music Awards. "The Seed" was also featured on the soundtrack to the Mandy Moore movie Chasing Liberty. Phrenology was certified gold (signifying U.S. sales of at least 500,000 units) in June 2003.
The Roots' 2004 release, The Tipping Point, took its name from a 2000 book by Malcolm Gladwell. The album earned two more Grammy nominations: one for Best Urban/Alternative Performance for the track "Star", and another for Best Rap Performance By A Duo Or Group for the track "Don't Say Nuthin'". The album was an immediate hit, debuting at #4 on the Billboard album chart and selling over 100,000 copies in its first week of release.
On November 15, 2005 The Roots released two compilation albums, Home Grown! The Beginner's Guide To Understanding The Roots, Volumes 1 & 2. These two separately sold discs are a compilation of past hits, live performances, and rare remixes compiled by ?uestlove himself. They also feature 70 pages of liner notes written by ?uestlove. These two albums marked the Roots' last releases on Geffen Records.
The Roots' album, Game Theory, was released on August 29, 2006. The album, which features a track that samples the song "You and Whose Army" by Radiohead, was released on Jay-Z's Def Jam.
The Roots next album 'Rising Down' was released on April 29th 2008. Features tracks with Common, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Saigon, and other greats.
The Make Me Songfacts reports that The Roots' eleventh album, undun, is their first concept album. It tells the story of a man called Redford Stephens who died in 1999 at the age of 25. We hear Redford retelling his life post-mortem and attempting to deconstruct what led to his undoing.
The Roots are also the house band on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon airing first on March 2nd, 2009.
Web
The Roots Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
'Riq geez motherfuckers I'm a son of a gun
Black master of any trade under the sun
Talk sharp like a razor blade under the tongue
Clear my path and come get your captain hung
Trying to breath like black'll collapse your lungs
Young chump you could choke off the web I spun
I done cleared 'em out from the threat I brung
My nigga, word-a-mouth little rule-a-thumb
Y'all better bow down when the ruler come
I'm a real hood nigga not a hood-a-lum
The way Thought put it down be confusin' some of y'all
Cats can't walk while chewin' your gum 'n all
With a keyboard got do with a drum 'n all
School 'em on stage like I'm doin' a seminar
Professional type, I'm adjusting my mic
Go to war kid I'll give you any weapon you like
Give you something to run from
Bust off your dum-dum
Stop kid, that hot shit you know where it come from
It's philly world-wide phenomenon
And reinforcin' that shit is my nine to five
And when I finish making you recognize
I'm getin' at a couple civilized women that's tryin' to ride
You were waitin' on the raw to come off the oil
You wanna get the bitches up off the wall
Just to see you smile and enjoy yourself
To keep you in health, this for all of y'all
I'm quick on the draw like Black McGraw
And I can't tell what y'all cats rappin' for
My name 'riq geez and I'm back for more
To get more chips than the corner store
With a portrait of Malcom X on the door
While I'm eatin' MCs like a carnivore
Matter fact, ease back 'fore you get harmed
Ring the, warning horn when I'm gon' perform
The first nigga that move, or disturb the groove
I'm a have y'all flicks on the evening news
Play y'all part, get on y'all P's and Q's
And when y'all think Thought, be prepared to lose
Bring money to spend and somebody to lend
And some worthwhile money not twenties and tens
Get took for your tuck right in front of your 'hens
Who coulda help you nigga, not none of ya friends
Because, I put a black fist under ya chin
Have your physical remains found under the pen
If I'm coming up in the place, I'm coming to win
Wasn't in it for a minute, now I'm dumbin' again
'Riq geez ock, y'all can chat what y'all please
Receive what I'm gonna give back to y'all please
'Cuz y'all don't really wanna get clapped with all these
My man, you can take y'all strap when y'all leave
You see the squad come in the place, they all freeze
Ice cold, with his mellow cool breeze
MCs, never showed loyalty yet
Kool Herc ain't never get a royalty check
I do work, no question, and bomb your set
I'm calm collect, sharp like my name Gillette
RIP my man Gillette
Until I touch the mic, y'all people ain't seen danger yet
I'm a decorated vet, I regulate and wreck
Never hesitated yet, I'm gettin' heavy weighted checks
If you would dare ask if I'm dedicated - yes
I spit, live rounds that would penetrate a vest
Nigga, take ya seats I'm a demonstrate a test
How to freak the beats, so gangsta fresh
And it thump, from the east coast to Bangladesh
Big bank, willy gank smoke the thing to death
But hold tight, cuz it's not over yet
I don't even feel like I'm not sober yet
And it ring like shots in the projects new year's eve
And it ain't even October yet
I'm a big bounty hunter like Boba Fett
Y'all more shell shocked then a soldier get
If the prize in my sights then I'm goin' for this
Whoo whoo 'riq geez be the ultimate
I'm the corporate, give me the bulk of this
'Riq set it on the magnetic ultra tip
Get down how you 'posed to get
I got nothing to lose, I'm a killer with no regrets
I'm like young LL, cuz I'm hard as hell
Makin' niggaz screw face like Gargamel
Now I'm all out on my own like Patty LaBelle
Put the pimp game down on your mademoiselle
The Roots's song Web is a display of lyrical skill and word play by MCs Tariq Trotter, also known as Black Thought, and Ahmir Khalib Thompson, otherwise known as Questlove. The song has multiple layers of meaning and a complex rhyme scheme, which makes it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
At the beginning of the song, Black Thought makes a bold claim that he is a master of any trade under the sun. He then proceeds to demonstrate his lyrical prowess by laying down intricate rhymes while warning his detractors to clear his path or face the consequences. The chorus underscores the theme of the song, with a repeated refrain of "Web! Web! Don't get caught in the..."
Throughout the rest of the song, Black Thought and Questlove continue to display their musical and lyrical talents. They talk about their experiences in the music industry, their love for hip hop culture, and the importance of staying true to oneself. The song is a testament to their dedication to their craft and their unwavering commitment to their art.
Overall, Web is a masterful display of MCing and an excellent example of The Roots's musical talents. It is a song that can be enjoyed both for its lyrical complexity and its musical excellence.
Line by Line Meaning
And it weights a ton
The significance and impact of this song is extremely heavy and substantial.
'Riq geez motherfuckers I'm a son of a gun
I am a highly skilled and talented individual, fully capable of dominating any competition or situation.
Black master of any trade under the sun
I possess a high level of expertise and mastery in any field or profession imaginable.
Talk sharp like a razor blade under the tongue
I communicate with precision and intelligence, delivering my words with a cutting and impactful effect.
Clear my path and come get your captain hung
Anyone who challenges or opposes me will face severe consequences and defeat.
Trying to breath like black'll collapse your lungs
I am so formidable that even the mere presence of my blackness can suffocate and overwhelm my adversaries.
Young chump you could choke off the web I spun
I have created a complex and entangling network of strategies and tactics that can easily ensnare and overpower weak opponents.
I done cleared 'em out from the threat I brung
I have successfully eliminated any potential danger or obstacles that may have posed a challenge to me.
You done heard about what set I'm from
I am well-known and respected in the community or group I represent.
My nigga, word-a-mouth little rule-a-thumb
Through the power of word-of-mouth and reputation, I have established a set of guiding principles and rules.
Y'all better bow down when the ruler come
When I arrive, it is expected and necessary for everyone to show respect and submission to my authority.
I'm a real hood nigga not a hood-a-lum
I am an authentic and genuine individual from the streets, not a mere imitator or pretender.
The way Thought put it down be confusin' some of y'all
The manner in which I express myself and deliver my message can often be perplexing or challenging for some listeners.
Cats can't walk while chewin' your gum 'n all
Many individuals lack the necessary skills and multitasking abilities to handle basic actions like walking while chewing gum.
With a keyboard got do with a drum 'n all
I am capable of creating music and delivering performances using both traditional instruments and modern technology.
School 'em on stage like I'm doin' a seminar
My live performances are not only entertaining, but also educational and enlightening, like a seminar.
Professional type, I'm adjusting my mic
I am a highly skilled and experienced artist, always refining and perfecting my craft, evidenced by my microphone adjustments.
Go to war kid I'll give you any weapon you like
I am so confident in my abilities that I am willing to engage in any kind of battle or competition, and even provide my opponents with their weapon of choice.
Give you something to run from
My presence and actions will create a sense of fear and urgency, making others want to flee or avoid confrontation.
Bust off your dum-dum
I will defeat and disarm you, rendering you defenseless and exposed.
Stop kid, that hot shit you know where it come from
Don't even try to compete or imitate my style, as you know that my skill and originality is unmatched.
It's philly world-wide phenomenon
The influence and impact of my artistry extends beyond Philadelphia, reaching a global scale and creating a phenomenon.
And reinforcin' that shit is my nine to five
I dedicate my life and career to continuously reinforcing the authenticity and power of my music and message.
And when I finish making you recognize
Once I am done impressing and enlightening you with my talent, you will have no choice but to acknowledge and respect my abilities.
I'm getin' at a couple civilized women that's tryin' to ride
I am pursuing and engaging with sophisticated and respectable women who are interested in accompanying me on my journey.
You were waitin' on the raw to come off the oil
You were anticipating and longing for the authentic and unfiltered essence of my music to be revealed.
You wanna get the bitches up off the wall
You desire to impress and attract the attractive women who are currently on the sidelines or hesitant to engage.
Just to see you smile and enjoy yourself
Your happiness and enjoyment are the ultimate goals and motivations for others to take action and support you.
To keep you in health, this for all of y'all
I am creating and delivering this music to uplift and support the well-being of everyone who listens.
I'm quick on the draw like Black McGraw
I am able to react and respond swiftly, like a skilled gunslinger, just like the fictional character Black McGraw.
And I can't tell what y'all cats rappin' for
I struggle to understand the purpose or motivation behind the mediocre and uninspiring rap that others produce.
My name 'riq geez and I'm back for more
I am 'riq geez, and I have returned with even greater determination and intensity to succeed.
To get more chips than the corner store
My aim is to accumulate more wealth and success than even the most prosperous corner store.
With a portrait of Malcom X on the door
I display a symbol of power and resistance, represented by a portrait of the influential figure Malcom X, as a reminder of my defiance and strength.
While I'm eatin' MCs like a carnivore
I devour and consume other MCs, just like a carnivorous animal, as a demonstration of my superiority and dominance.
Matter fact, ease back 'fore you get harmed
I strongly advise you to retreat and withdraw before facing the severe consequences and harm that I can inflict upon you.
Ring the, warning horn when I'm gon' perform
Sound the alarm and prepare for my explosive and captivating performance.
The first nigga that move, or disturb the groove
I will immediately confront and neutralize anyone who dares to disrupt or interrupt the smooth and rhythmic flow.
I'm a have y'all flicks on the evening news
My actions and accomplishments will be so remarkable and newsworthy that they will be featured on the evening news.
Play y'all part, get on y'all P's and Q's
It is essential for you to fulfill your roles and responsibilities, and be attentive and disciplined in your actions and behavior.
And when y'all think Thought, be prepared to lose
Once you associate my name, Thought, with a challenge or competition, you should mentally prepare yourself for an inevitable defeat.
Bring money to spend and somebody to lend
When you come into my presence, make sure to have enough money to spend and someone who can lend you additional funds if needed.
And some worthwhile money not twenties and tens
Make sure the money you bring is of substantial value and not just small denominations like twenties and tens.
Get took for your tuck right in front of your 'hens
I will easily and boldly take your possessions and fortunes right in front of your female companions, demonstrating my dominance and control.
Who coulda help you nigga, not none of ya friends
None of your so-called friends or associates will come to your aid or offer assistance when you are in need.
Because, I put a black fist under ya chin
I will physically confront and intimidate you, placing my black fist under your chin as a symbol of power and defiance.
Have your physical remains found under the pen
If you continue to challenge or oppose me, your lifeless body will be discovered and recovered in a place of my choosing.
If I'm coming up in the place, I'm coming to win
Whenever I enter a competition or environment, it is with the sole intention of emerging as the victorious and dominant force.
Wasn't in it for a minute, now I'm dumbin' again
Although I may have momentarily withdrawn from the scene, I have returned with even greater intensity and aggression.
'Riq geez ock, y'all can chat what y'all please
'Riq geez, the master of this art form, is not concerned with or affected by the idle chatter and opinions of others.
Receive what I'm gonna give back to y'all please
Prepare yourselves to receive and accept the powerful and impactful messages and artistry that I am about to deliver to you.
'Cuz y'all don't really wanna get clapped with all these
Trust me, you do not want to experience the repercussions and consequences of challenging me and my skills.
My man, you can take y'all strap when y'all leave
You can retrieve your weapon once you surrender and retreat from the confrontation, as I have already established my dominance.
You see the squad come in the place, they all freeze
The sight of my team entering the venue causes everyone to pause and become immobilized in awe and respect.
Ice cold, with his mellow cool breeze
We exude an aura of icy calmness and confidence, accompanied by a soothing and refreshing energy.
MCs, never showed loyalty yet
Other MCs have consistently failed to demonstrate loyalty, dedication, and genuine support to the culture and art form.
Kool Herc ain't never get a royalty check
Even the legendary DJ Kool Herc, who pioneered this genre, has not received the financial compensation he deserves for his contributions.
I do work, no question, and bomb your set
I consistently put in the necessary effort and work to ensure that I deliver a powerful and explosive performance that surpasses your expectations.
I'm calm collect, sharp like my name Gillette
I remain composed and collected, possessing a razor-sharp skill and precision, just like the renowned brand Gillette.
RIP my man Gillette
My respect and tribute to the late Gillette, honoring his legacy and influence on the industry.
Until I touch the mic, y'all people ain't seen danger yet
You have not yet witnessed the true level of danger and intensity that I am capable of unleashing until I take control of the microphone.
I'm a decorated vet, I regulate and wreck
With years of experience and accomplishments, I am a highly respected and skilled individual who both enforces the rules and causes destruction.
Never hesitated yet, I'm gettin' heavy weighted checks
I have never faltered or hesitated in my pursuit of success, resulting in substantial financial rewards and recognition.
If you would dare ask if I'm dedicated - yes
There is no doubt or question about my unwavering dedication and commitment to my craft.
I spit, live rounds that would penetrate a vest
My words and rhymes are so powerful and impactful that they have the ability to pierce through even the strongest protective gear.
Nigga, take ya seats I'm a demonstrate a test
Everyone should find a seat and prepare to witness and experience a demonstration of my skills and abilities.
How to freak the beats, so gangsta fresh
I will illustrate and teach you how to flawlessly manipulate and utilize beats in a manner that exudes an authentic and cool gangster vibe.
And it thump, from the east coast to Bangladesh
My music is so powerful and engaging that it resonates and reverberates from the east coast of the United States to countries like Bangladesh.
Big bank, willy gank smoke the thing to death
I have acquired significant wealth and power, able to casually enjoy and consume extravagant amounts of drugs, such as smoking to the point of complete obliteration.
But hold tight, cuz it's not over yet
Do not relax or lower your guard, as the excitement and intensity of this experience is far from over.
I don't even feel like I'm not sober yet
Despite the fact that I may not be completely sober, I still possess an incredible level of focus and clarity in my performances.
And it ring like shots in the projects new year's eve
The impact and resonance of my music is comparable to the sound of gunfire heard in the housing projects during the celebration of New Year's Eve.
And it ain't even October yet
The intensity and energy of my music is so powerful that it feels like the climax of a festive and explosive occasion, even though it is not yet the month of October.
I'm a big bounty hunter like Boba Fett
Similar to the iconic bounty hunter Boba Fett, I pursue and capture my targets with great skill and determination.
Y'all more shell shocked then a soldier get
The level of surprise and shock you experience is comparable to that of a traumatized soldier during combat.
If the prize in my sights then I'm goin' for this
Once I have identified my objective or goal, I am fully committed and unwavering in my pursuit of achieving it.
Whoo whoo 'riq geez be the ultimate
'Riq geez represents the epitome of excellence and superiority in this realm.
I'm the corporate, give me the bulk of this
I am the dominant and authoritative figure, deserving of the majority of the resources and rewards in this industry.
'Riq set it on the magnetic ultra tip
'Riq has established and set the standards of excellence at an extremely high level, surpassing the expectations of others.
Get down how you 'posed to get
Everyone should adhere to and embody the expected or desired behavior and attitude.
I got nothing to lose, I'm a killer with no regrets
I possess a fearless and relentless mindset, ready to eliminate any obstacles or opponents, without any remorse or hesitation.
I'm like young LL, cuz I'm hard as hell
Similar to a young LL Cool J, I am tough and formidable, not to be underestimated or taken lightly.
Makin' niggaz screw face like Gargamel
I have the ability to provoke and unsettle individuals to the point where their facial expressions become twisted and angry, just like the fictional character Gargamel.
Now I'm all out on my own like Patty LaBelle
I have established myself as an independent and self-sufficient artist, comparable to the successful solo career of Patty LaBelle.
Put the pimp game down on your mademoiselle
I will successfully charm and captivate your female companions, asserting my dominance and control over them.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: HUBBARD, THOMPSON, ROBERT JR. DORSEY, TARIK L. COLLINS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@Pride317
Lyrics
[Intro]
Uh huh
Uh
[Verse: Black Thought]
And it weighs a ton
Riq Geez motherfuckers I'm a son of a gun
Black master of any trade under the sun
Talk sharp like a razor blade under the tongue
Clear my path and come get your captain hung
Trying to breathe like Black'll collapse your lungs
Young chump you could choke off the web I spun
I done cleared 'em out from the threat I brung
You done heard about what set I'm from
My nigga, word of mouth little rule-a-thumb
Y'all better bow down when the ruler come
I'm a real hood nigga not a hood-a-lum
The way Thought put it down be confusing some of y'all
Cats can't walk while chewing your gum 'n all
What a keyboard got to do with a drum and all
School 'em on stage like I'm doing a seminar
Professional type, I'm adjusting my mic
Go to war kid I'll give you any weapon you like
Give you something to run from, bust off your dum-dums
Stop kid, that hot shit you know where it come from
It's Philly world-wide phenomenon
And reinforcing that shit is my 9-to-5
And when I finish making you recognize
I'm getting at a couple civilized women that's trying to ride
You been waiting on the boul to come off to all
You wanna get the bitches up off the wall
Just to see you smile and enjoy yourself
To keep you in health, this for all of y'all
I'm quick on the draw like Black McGraw
And I can't tell what y'all cats rapping for
My name 'Riq Geez and I'm back for more
To get more chips than the corner store
With a portrait of Malcom X on the door
While I'm eating MCs like a carnivore
Matter fact, ease back 'fore you get harmed
Ring the warning horn when I'm gon' perform
The first nigga that move, or disturb the goove
I'm a have y'all flicks on the evening news
Play y'all part - get on y'all P's and Q's
And when y'all face Thought, be prepared to lose
Bring money to spend and somebody to lend
And some worthwhile money not twenties and tens
Get took for your tuck right in front of your hens
Who coulda helped you, nigga? not none of ya friends
Because, I put a black fist under ya chin
Have your physical remains found under the pen
If I'm coming up in the place, I'm coming to win
Wasn't in it for a minute, now I'm dumbing again
Riq Geez, akh, y'all can chat what y'all please
Receive what I'm gonna get back to y'all believe
Cuz you don't really wanna get clapped with all these
My man, you can take y'all strap when y'all leave
You see the squad come in the place, they all freeze
Ice Cold, with his mellow Cool Breeze
MCs never showed loyalty yet
Kool Herc ain't never get a royalty check
I do work, no question, and bomb your set
I'm calm collect, sharp like my name Gillette
RIP my man Gillette until I touch the mic
Y'all people ain't seen danger yet
I'm a decorated vet, I regulate and wreck
Never hesitated yet, I'm getting heavy weighted checks
If you would dare ask if I'm dedicated - yes
I spit live rounds that'll penetrate a vest
Nigga, take ya seats I'm a demonstrate a test
How to freak the beats, so gangsta fresh
And it thump, from the east coast to Bangladesh
Big bank Willy Gank smoke the thing to death
But hold tight, cuz it's not over yet
I don't even feel like I'm not sober yet
And it ring like shots in the projects New Year's Eve
And it ain't even October yet
I'm a big bounty hunter like Boba Fett
Y'all more shell shocked then a soldier get
If the prize in my sights then I'm going for this
Whoo whoo 'Riq Geez be the ultimate
I'm the culprit, give me the bulk of this
Riq set it on the magnetic ultra tip
Get down how you 'posed to get
I got nothing to lose, I'm a killer with no regrets
I'm like young LL, cuz I'm hard as hell
Making niggas screw face like Gargamel
Now I'm all out on my own like Patti LaBelle
Put the pimp game down on your mademoiselle
[Outro]
Keep the beat going
Keep the beat going
@DrWillyInfantry
Black Thought]
Uh huh
uh
And it weights a ton
'riq geez motherfuckers I'm a son of a gun
Black master of any trade under the sun
Talk sharp like a razor blade under the tongue
clear my path and come get your captain hung
Trying to breath like black'll collapse your lungs
Young chump you could choke off the web I spun
I done cleared 'em out from the threat I brung
You done heard about what set I'm from
My nigga, word-a-mouth little rule-a-thumb
Y'all better bow down when the ruler come
I'm a real hood nigga not a hood-a-lum
The way Thought put it down be confusin' some of y'all
cats can't walk while chewin' your gum 'n all
With a keyboard got do with a drum 'n all
School 'em on stage like I'm doin' a seminar
Professional type, I'm adjusting my mic
Go to war kid I'll give you any weapon you like
Give you something to run from
, bust off your dum-dum
Stop kid, that hot shit you know where it come from
It's philly world-wide phenomenom
And reinforcin' that shit is my 9-to-5
And when I finish making you recognize
I'm getin' at a couple civilized women that's tryin' to ride
You were waitin' on the raw to come off the oil
You wanna get the bitches up off the wall
Just to see you smile and enjoy yourself
To keep you in health, this for all of y'all
I'm quick on the draw like Black McGraw
And I can't tell what y'all cats rappin' for
My name 'riq geez and I'm back for more
To get more chips than the corner store
with a portrait of Malcom X on the door
while I'm eatin' MCs like a carnivore
Matter fact, ease back 'fore you get harmed
Ring the, warning horn when I'm gon' perform
The first nigga that move, or disturb the goove
I'm a have y'all flicks on the evening news
Play y'all part - get on y'all P's and Q's
And when y'all think Thought, be prepared to lose
Bring money to spend and somebody to lend
And some worthwhile money not twenties and tens
Get took for your tuck right in front of your 'hens
Who coulda help you nigga, not none of ya friends
Because, I put a black fist under ya chin
Have your physical remains found under the pen
If I'm coming up in the place, I'm coming to win
Wasn't in it for a minute, now I'm dumbin' again
'riq geez ock, y'all can chat what y'all please
Receive what I'm gonna give back to y'all please
'cuz y'all don't really wanna get clapped with all these
My man, you can take y'all strap when y'all leave
You see the squad come in the place, they all freeze
Ice cold, with his mellow cool breeze
MCs, never showed loyalty yet
Kool Herc ain't never get a royalty check
I do work, no question, and bomb your set
I'm calm collect, sharp like my name Gillette
RIP my man Gillette
Until I touch the mic, y'all people ain't seen danger yet
I'm a decorated vet, I regulate and wreck
Never hesitated yet, I'm gettin' heavy weighted checks
If you would dare ask if I'm dedicated - yes
I spit, live rounds that would penetrate a vest
Nigga, take ya seats I'm a demonstrate a test
How to freak the beats, so gangsta fresh
And it thump, from the east coast to Bangladesh
Big bank, willy gank smoke the thing to death
But hold tight, cuz it's not over yet
I don't even feel like I'm not sober yet
And it ring like shots in the projects new year's eve
And it ain't even October yet
I'm a big bounty hunter like Boba Fett
Y'all more shell shocked then a soldier get
If the prize in my sights then I'm goin' for this
Whoo whoo 'riq geez be the ultimate
I'm the corporate, give me the bulk of this
'riq set it on the magnetic ultra tip
Get down how you 'posed to get
I got nothing to lose, I'm a killer with no regrets
I'm like young LL, cuz I'm hard as hell
Makin' niggaz screw face like Gargamel
Now I'm all out on my own like Patty LaBelle
Put the pimp game down on your mademoiselle
Keep the beat goin'
@soulCracka1
One of the greatest performances in hip hop history.
@birdoffire9
Absolutely 💯💯💯💯💯. Every cell in your being vibrates.
@brentstevens6228
I never ever get tired of this song.
@RebelUndergroundNetwork
One of the best verses in Hip Hop history.
@neiltaylor6443
RUN Without doubt,an MC master class.Never tire of this.💥💥💥💥
@willismullen3749
Black Thought has always been a master of the english language, literacy, story telling, and has always been a legit MC. Masterful execution on this. No hook. Just flow.
@Youngapollo47
One of the best verses in Black Thought's discography
@CoherentHipHop
No doubt.
@jerichf1
“Don’t say nothing” too
@africanbella28
This song is fire!!! Black Thought is one of the greatest rappers of all time in my opinion. Facts👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾