DEAD OR ALIVE
Tupac Feat. Snoop Dogg Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

Nothin' but a gangsta party (for life, for life)
Nothin' but a gangsta party (West Coast, West Coast for life)

Got me up against the fence, back against the wall
Get to actin' like a fool if ain't no justice for the Dogg
Got to take it out on all y'all
Better read the papers, all my homies goin' crazy, baby
Only God could save us
Got my, mind on currency, hurry, see I ain't worried
It's a gangsta party so, Bad Boy gettin' buried
Snoop Dogg, why they fantasize? (Fantasize)
When we ride it's a must adversaries die every time

Yes, yes, y'all, not $hort but Snoop Dogg
And you know it's like that y'all

I'm so smooth about my paper, check it, this how it's done
I'm servin' Henny on a platter, Snoop Dogg Corleone
Corleone (Corleone), now do you know what that mean? (Mm-mm)
A Teflon Don to this hip-hop game, super supreme
It's like what happen can happen, but will it stop?
That won't happen, I'm feelin' good about the mission for jackin'
Ayo Pac (wassup?), Can you feel me?
Why these fools tryna kill me?
It's so hard to stay focused on my eyes and prize
But if I don't, the Dogg won't survive (survive)

We ballin' in my opinion, eternal was wild wheel spinnin'
Once implemented it's represented for five minutes
Two of the livest wanted dead or alive
We riders, they ban us because we ain't quiet and watch the G's ride
Two of America's most, straight out the West Coast
Bow down fool, this is Death Row (for life)
Been waitin' way too long, fresh out the pen, now it's on
C'mon, it's Snoop Dogg's time to bone (haha)

Ain't nothin' changed too down to hang
I slang a bang with a rhyme
Me and the homie Pac trippin' Death Row on knobs
Strong survive, by Eastside of DPG'z
Still creepin', bump through the hood
Always involved in the streets (Westside)
It's Doggy Dogg homie, did you forget who I was?
The big homie to you, there it is and there it was (there it was)
Take a look through the eyes of a G
And just ride to the rhythm of a gangsta beat

All my homies tellin' me
Ain't no love for a real G
Straight cowards all you playa haters kill me
Throw up your hands if you feel me
We gettin' dollars, homie, holla if you hear me
It's one time for my comrades doin' bad locked down
Fresh out, bust the top and bounce, drop down
Can you visualize perfection?
'Cause every rider in my set labelled a vet best in their profession
Don't hold your breath, stick to Smith & Wesson
Steady study your lessons to keep the crowd guessin' (uh)

Straight gangsta, y'know? (Wanted dead or alive)
Money to be made, situations get deep (wanted dead or alive)
Niggas always tryin' to creep (wanted dead or alive)
But I know what time it is (wanted dead or alive, wanted dead or alive)

Gangstas, yeah, yeah, yeah (wanted dead or alive)
Yeah, gangstas, play or stay (wanted dead or alive)
Yeah, play or stay (wanted dead or alive)
Y'know? Stay a gangsta (wanted dead or alive)
All my doggs, all my niggas on lockdown, Big Dogg (wanted dead or alive)
It's for you, nigga
We gon' ride this motherfucker 'til the wheels fall off (gangsta)
Yeah, yeah (gangsta, gangsta)
Play or stay (gangsta)
Yeah (gangsta, gangsta)
Play or stay (gangsta)
Yeah, yeah (gangsta, gangsta)
Play or stay (gangsta)
Yeah, yeah (gangsta, gangsta)
Death Row
Yeah, yeah, my nigga 2Pac rest in peace
Dogg Pound
Dippin' real hard y'know what I'm sayin'?
Yeah, yeah (gangsta, gangsta)
Stay down (stay down)
Gangstas, gangstas (gangsta, gangsta, gangsta)
For life (stay down), Eastside (gangsta)
Westside of the coast (gangsta)
Yeah, Eastside (gangsta, gangsta)
Mmm, for all my soldiers (gangsta)
Yeah (gangsta, gangsta, gangsta, gangsta, gangsta)
Where ya at? (Gangsta, gangsta)
Yeah (gangsta, gangsta, gangsta, gangsta)
Y'know? (Gangsta, gangsta)
Yeah (gangsta)
Stayin' (gangsta, gangsta)
For real
Y'know?
What it look like?
Mmm, what it feel like?
It ain't easy, y'know?
Death Row




My nigga Pac, Makaveli
Dat Nigga Daz

Overall Meaning

The song "Dead or Alive" by Tupac feat. Snoop Dogg is a catchy, upbeat rap about living the gangsta lifestyle. The chorus, "Nothin' but a gangsta party (for life, for life)," repeats throughout, reinforcing the theme of the song. The first verse talks about feeling trapped and angry against the "system" and how it's a "gangsta party," which means anything goes. The second verse talks about serving alcohol to guests and compares himself to a mob boss.


The chorus repeats, followed by Snoop Dogg's rap verse. He reflects on how he has always been involved with the streets, and it's now his time to shine. He emphasizes not forgetting where he and his fellow gangsters come from and how anyone can lose their life at any moment. The final verse talks about staying true to oneself and the gangsta lifestyle while shouting out to his late friend Tupac and their shared friend Dat Nigga Daz.


Overall, the song celebrates the gangsta lifestyle and how it's not easy but is a party and a way of life that stays true to themselves.


Line by Line Meaning

Nothin' but a gangsta party (for life, for life)
This song represents the essence of gangster culture and lifestyle, celebrating it as a lifelong commitment and identity.


Got me up against the fence, back against the wall
Feeling trapped and cornered, facing adversity and injustice.


Get to actin' like a fool if ain't no justice for the Dogg
When there's no fairness or justice, I tend to resort to reckless behavior.


Got to take it out on all y'all
I release my frustrations and anger on everyone around me.


Better read the papers, all my homies goin' crazy, baby
The news reports show that my friends are losing control and becoming unstable.


Only God could save us
The only hope for our salvation lies in a higher power, in this case, God.


Got my mind on currency, hurry, see I ain't worried
My focus is on making money, and I do it swiftly without any concerns.


It's a gangsta party so, Bad Boy gettin' buried
In this gathering of gangsters, those associated with the Bad Boy label will be defeated and overshadowed.


Snoop Dogg, why they fantasize? (Fantasize)
Why do people indulge in unrealistic and exaggerated fantasies about me, Snoop Dogg?


When we ride it's a must adversaries die every time
Whenever we take action, our enemies must face fatal consequences.


I'm so smooth about my paper, check it, this how it's done
I handle my financial matters with utmost finesse and expertise, let me show you how it's done.


I'm servin' Henny on a platter, Snoop Dogg Corleone
I am the epitome of power and authority when it comes to serving Hennessy, just like Don Corleone from The Godfather.


Corleone (Corleone), now do you know what that mean? (Mm-mm)
I reference a character from The Godfather, and I want to know if you truly understand the significance and power associated with the name Corleone.


A Teflon Don to this hip-hop game, super supreme
I am invincible and untouchable in the world of hip-hop, holding utmost authority and dominance.


It's like what happen can happen, but will it stop?
Chaos is always a possibility, but the question remains whether it will ever cease.


That won't happen, I'm feelin' good about the mission for jackin'
That's unlikely to occur; I am confident and positive about my intentions to engage in criminal activities.


Ayo Pac (wassup?), Can you feel me?
Hey, Pac, do you understand and resonate with what I'm expressing?


Why these fools tryna kill me?
I question the motives of these individuals who are attempting to cause harm or take my life.


It's so hard to stay focused on my eyes and prize
Maintaining concentration on my goals and aspirations is incredibly challenging.


But if I don't, the Dogg won't survive (survive)
If I don't persevere, I won't be able to overcome the struggles and threats that come my way.


We ballin' in my opinion, eternal was wild wheel spinnin'
According to my perspective, we're living a lavish and extravagant lifestyle, with the excitement and unpredictability of the wheel of fortune.


Once implemented it's represented for five minutes
As soon as our plans are put into action, our reputation and influence last for only a short period before fading away.


Two of the livest wanted dead or alive
We are two of the most vibrant and sought-after individuals, both desired either as casualties or still breathing.


We riders, they ban us because we ain't quiet and watch the G's ride
We are rebellious and defiant individuals; that's why they try to prevent us from expressing ourselves while witnessing the dominance of gangsters.


Two of America's most, straight out the West Coast
We are considered two of America's most prominent figures, originating from the West Coast.


Bow down fool, this is Death Row (for life)
Show respect and submission, for this is the powerful and iconic Death Row Records, and it will always prevail.


Been waitin' way too long, fresh out the pen, now it's on
I have been waiting for an extended period, after being released from prison, and now the time for action has finally arrived.


C'mon, it's Snoop Dogg's time to bone (haha)
Let's go, it's Snoop Dogg's turn to dominate and showcase his skills (laughs).


Ain't nothin' changed too down to hang
Nothing has altered, still ready to associate and spend time together.


I slang a bang with a rhyme
I skillfully deliver powerful and impactful rap lyrics.


Me and the homie Pac trippin' Death Row on knobs
Pac and I, both affiliated with Death Row Records, are causing disruptions and chaos with our music.


Strong survive, by Eastside of DPG'z
Only the resilient ones endure, especially those representing the strong and influential Eastside of the Dogg Pound Gangstaz.


Still creepin', bump through the hood
We are still moving stealthily and inconspicuously through the neighborhood, asserting our presence.


Always involved in the streets (Westside)
We consistently engage in street activities, particularly on the Westside, as it's part of our lifestyle.


It's Doggy Dogg homie, did you forget who I was?
Don't overlook the fact that I am Snoop Doggy Dogg, my friend, did you somehow forget my status and reputation?


The big homie to you, there it is and there it was (there it was)
I am the respected figure in your life, the one who leads and guides, that's the way it is and always has been.


Take a look through the eyes of a G
View the world and its challenges from the perspective of a gangster.


And just ride to the rhythm of a gangsta beat
Simply let yourself go and embrace the sounds of a gangsta-inspired musical rhythm.


All my homies tellin' me
All of my friends are reporting to me


Ain't no love for a real G
There is no respect or affection given to a true gangster


Straight cowards all you playa haters kill me
I am utterly disgusted by the pathetic individuals who despise and envy successful players.


Throw up your hands if you feel me
Raise your hands in support and agreement if you understand and resonate with my message.


We gettin' dollars, homie, holla if you hear me
We are accumulating wealth, my friend, let me know if you can relate and understand.


It's one time for my comrades doin' bad locked down
This is a salute to my fellow comrades who are facing difficult times in jail.


Fresh out, bust the top and bounce, drop down
Once released, we quickly show off our cars with open roofs and swiftly leave the area.


Can you visualize perfection?
Is it possible for you to envision and comprehend the concept of flawlessness?


'Cause every rider in my set labelled a vet best in their profession
Each member of my group is considered an experienced and highly skilled expert in their field.


Don't hold your breath, stick to Smith & Wesson
Don't expect anything miraculous, instead rely on the reliability and power of firearms.


Steady study your lessons to keep the crowd guessin' (uh)
Consistently learn from your experiences to maintain a sense of intrigue and uncertainty amongst those observing you.


Straight gangsta, y'know? (Wanted dead or alive)
This is pure gangsterism, you understand? It's a lifestyle where being sought after, whether dead or alive, is an inherent part.


Money to be made, situations get deep (wanted dead or alive)
There are opportunities for financial gain, but the circumstances can become treacherous and complex.


Niggas always tryin' to creep (wanted dead or alive)
There are always individuals attempting to stealthily make their way into our lives, possibly with malicious intent.


But I know what time it is (wanted dead or alive, wanted dead or alive)
I am fully aware of the reality and dangers present in our environment.


Gangstas, yeah, yeah, yeah (wanted dead or alive)
We are true gangsters, asserting our presence and identity with confidence and repetition.


Yeah, gangstas, play or stay (wanted dead or alive)
Yes, we are gangsters, and you have the choice to either join our lifestyle or distance yourself from it entirely.


Yeah, play or stay (wanted dead or alive)
Make a decision whether you want to actively participate in this gangster world or remain on the sidelines.


Y'know? Stay a gangsta (wanted dead or alive)
You understand, right? Stick to the gangster lifestyle, committing to it even when faced with threats of harm.


All my doggs, all my niggas on lockdown, Big Dogg (wanted dead or alive)
This is for all my loyal friends, all my brothers who are currently incarcerated, particularly the one I affectionately refer to as Big Dogg.


It's for you, nigga
This song is dedicated to you, my friend.


We gon' ride this motherfucker 'til the wheels fall off (gangsta)
We will continue with our gangster lifestyle until we can no longer sustain it.


Death Row
A reference to the music label and persona, symbolizing power and intimidation.


My nigga 2Pac rest in peace
My dear friend, Tupac, may you rest in peace.


Dogg Pound
Refers to the music group Dogg Pound, signifying unity and loyalty.


Dippin' real hard y'know what I'm sayin'?
We are cruising and driving with great intensity, do you understand what I'm trying to convey?


Stay down (stay down)
Remain loyal and committed, even in challenging circumstances.


Gangstas, gangstas (gangsta, gangsta, gangsta)
We are true gangsters, embodying the very essence and lifestyle associated with it.


For life (stay down), Eastside (gangsta)
This is a lifelong commitment, specifically associated with the Eastside, displaying loyalty and dedication.


Westside of the coast (gangsta)
A representation of the gangster lifestyle and identity prevalent on the West Coast.


Where ya at? (Gangsta, gangsta)
Where are you located right now? Are you immersed in the gangster lifestyle?


Yeah (gangsta, gangsta, gangsta, gangsta)
Certainly, this is a true expression and embodiment of the gangster identity.


Y'know? (Gangsta, gangsta)
You understand, right? We're talking about true gangsterism here.


Yeah (gangsta)
Yes, this is the essence and representation of gangster culture.


Stayin' (gangsta, gangsta)
We are maintaining our loyalty and commitment to the gangster lifestyle.


For real
This is the actual truth and reality.


Y'know?
Do you understand?


What it look like?
How does it appear or seem?


Mmm, what it feel like?
What is the sensation or experience associated with it?


It ain't easy, y'know?
It's not a simple or straightforward task, you understand?


Death Row
Referring again to the powerful and intimidating music label.


My nigga Pac, Makaveli
My dear friend, Pac, also known as Makaveli, symbolizing strength and influence.


Dat Nigga Daz
A reference to the person known as Daz Dillinger.




Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: Tupac Amaru Shakur, Roger Troutman, Larry Troutman, Cordozar Calvin Broadus, Delmar Drew Arnaud

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
To comment on or correct specific content, highlight it

Genre not found
Artist not found
Album not found
Song not found

More Versions