In 2005 he released his first official mixtape, Prince of the City: Welcome to Pistolvania, and later in 2006 he released his first full length street album entitled Show and Prove. Since then he has released a further six mixtapes and a collaboration mixtape titled How Fly with friend Curren$y. He released his debut album, Deal or No Deal, in November of 2009, it reached #1 on the iTunes hip hop chart, and then reached the top ten on iTunes' overall album chart the week it was released. Previously signed to Warner Bros. Records, he left the label in July 2009 after numerous delays in releasing his planned debut album for the label, First Flight. Khalifa stated to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette that, "I learned a lot during my time there and matured as an artist during the process. I'm happy to be moving on with all of my material and having the chance to be in control of my next moves".He is also the founder of the rap crew Taylor Gang, which includes friends Kev Tha Hustler, Ekko, Smallz Money and Gene Stovall. They derived the name from the fact they always used to wear Chuck Taylor shoes.
Khalifa was born on September 8, 1987 in Minot, North Dakota to a mother and a father serving in the military. The family moved to Pittsburgh when Khalifa was the age of two. His parents' military service caused the family to move on a regular basis.
Over the next thirteen years, he would move between Pittsburgh and South Carolina, Georgia, Oklahoma, Germany, Japan, and England as his parents were reassigned to different posts. In October of 1990 Wiz was separated from his mother,who left him in the hands of her sister while she served in Operation Desert Storm.
During his travels, Wiz was forced to mature quicker than his peers. He was constantly faced with new surroundings, new schools, and new sets of friends, and he found it difficult to become attached to anyone outside his family roots. This nomadic life gave Wiz an opportunity, though, to broaden his mind and offered him many experiences from which to draw inspiration. He began to perceive the world differently than most kids, and he would write his thoughts down every day.These thoughts would become the foundation for his future recordings.
By the age of 14, with a few songs under his belt, Wiz was already drawing comparisons with his commanding voice and witty wordplay. While he has been influenced by artists such as Jay-Z, Camron, and the Notorious B.I.G., Wiz was determined to create his own identity that would, one day, be loved and revered by fans.
Ready to take the next step, Wiz began his search for a recording studio to record new songs. He found one, ID LABS, where owner Eric Dan immediately recognized Wiz's talents. Along with Chad Glick of ID Management, they began to network Wiz to another Pittsburgh native, Benjy Grinberg of Rostrum Records. Benjy realized the raw talent that Wiz possessed, and immediately brought him into the Rostrum family in 2002.
Soon after, Wiz Khalifa began his ascent into the music scene in the Pittsburgh area. He has been hailed by the award winning Pittsburgh Post-Gazette pop music critic, Ed Masley, as having βthe skills, the looks, the confidence, the drive, and the charisma for the job.β The New Pittsburgh Courier says, βThe combination of a young, charismatic M.C. with a slew of stop-and-rewind rhymes together with a local independent label with major industry connections has set the stage for a hip-hop artist representing Pittsburgh to reach superstar status for the first time ever.
In 2010, with the success of Kush and Orange Juice still present, Wiz Khalifa signed with Atlantic Records. Wiz's style along with his production team, Johnny Juliano, Sledgren, and E. Dan make this a winning combination for success.
He is also well known for his debut single for Atlantic, "Black and Yellow", which peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. His debut album for the label, Rolling Papers, was released on March 29, 2011. He followed that album with O.N.I.F.C. (abbreviated for mainstream markets from "Only Nigga In First Class") on December 4, 2012 which was backed by the singles "Work Hard, Play Hard" and "Remember You". O.N.I.F.C. debuted at number two with 131,000 in first week sales.
Pittsburgh City Council declared 12-12-12 (December 12, 2012) to be Wiz Khalifa Day in the city. Khalifa graduated from Pittsburgh's Taylor Allderdice High School and in January 2012, purchased a home in nearby Canonsburg, Pennsylvania.
In April 2013, Khalifa revealed that after having his son he decided to work on a new album that he was planning to release in 2013. On April 17, 2013, Wiz Khalifa and Curren$y announced that they will drop their collaboration EP Live in Concert on April 20, 2013. The EP featured seven new songs. On June 24, 2013, he announced that his fifth studio album would be titled Blacc Hollywood and would be released in 2013. On September 3, 2013, Khalifa revealed he had recorded songs with Miley Cyrus, Adele and Juicy J for Blacc Hollywood. In October 2013, Mannie Fresh confirmed that he provided production for the album. On February 11, 2014, Khalifa released Blacc Hollywood's first single titled "We Dem Boyz". The album was then supported by the singles "KK", "You and Your Friends", "Stayin Out All Night", "Promises" and "So High".
Khalifa released an EP with TY Dolla $ign on March 31, 2015, entitled "Talk About It In the Morning". That same month, Wiz released the lead single for the film "Furious 7" called "See You Again" as a tribute to Paul Walker. The single has since gone on to global success. "See You Again" spent 12 non-consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, tying for the longest-running rap number-one hit in the US.
On January 23, 2015, Khalifa was featured on a remix release of the Fall Out Boy song "Uma Thurman". On May 18, they performed the song together on the 2015 Billboard Music Awards show. In the summer of 2015, he began touring the United States with Fall Out Boy and Hoodie Allen in a tour titled "The Boys of Zummer Tour". The tour featured performances of "Uma Thurman" by Fall Out Boy and Khalifa. Later that year, on December 15, 2015, Wiz released the mixtape "Cabin Fever 3". During the Golden Globes on January 10, 2016, Wiz announced that his next album, titled Khalifa, would be released on the 22nd of that month. However, the album was released on February 5, 2016. On May 24, 2016, he released "Pull Up", a standalone single in promotion of his sixth album, Rolling Papers 2, which was released on July 13, 2018.
On April 20, 2020, Khalifa released, The Saga of Wiz Khalifa. The album included collaborations with Tyga, Logic, Mustard and Ty Dolla $ign. In May 2020, Khalifa featured on the song "Drums Drums Drums" with Travis Barker.
In 2021, Khalifa competed in season five of The Masked Singer as "Chameleon". He finished in third place.
Cowboy
Wiz Khalifa Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
That's just how it is man
Round my way
Just a young lil' nigga, but he had the right plan
Twenty-thousand in his left, pistol in his right hand
Counting every dollar that he get, cause he worked for it
But don't run up on him 'cause you'll probably get murked for it
Ain't nobody give it to him, so he got it on his own
Yeah, he got it on his own
You want something, gotta take it
Tryna get up out the hood, but he'll probably never make it
He's a midwest cowboy, Pittsburgh nigga
Came from a city where them niggas they some killas
Midwest cowboy, Pittsburgh nigga
Came from a city where them niggas they some killas
Midwest cowboy, Pittsburgh nigga
Came from a city where them niggas they some killas
Midwest cowboy, Pittsburgh nigga
Came from a city where them niggas they some killas
Just a young nigga, but he had the right plan
Slanging looking for them people hopping out them white vans
Standing on the corner rolling up their marijuana
Smoking weed and selling packs of D till you're a gonner
Caught a case and lost some racks, the nigga got it back
In any case a nigga disrespect, he's on his back
He bought a pack, then bought a strap
His niggas got his back
His life has changed it's gone to smack
And ain't no turning back
He's a Midwest cowboy, Pittsburgh nigga
Came from a city where them niggas they some killas
Midwest cowboy, Pittsburgh nigga
Came from a city where them niggas they some killas
Midwest cowboy, Pittsburgh nigga
Came from a city where them niggas they some killas
Midwest cowboy, Pittsburgh nigga
Came from a city where them niggas they some killas
Just a young nigga, but he had the right plan
Wore a lot of jewelry, he slept with it on his nightstand
Made a lot of money and he got it all from hustling
Came from a good family but say he can't get enough of it
All up in the club and he ain't looking for a ring
Fucking other niggas bitches, yeah he swear that was his thing
Yeah, he learned a little lesson 'bout messing with them haters
Cause they found his body later
Guess that's what he get for fucking with them...
Midwest cowboy, Pittsburgh nigga
Came from a city where them niggas they some killas
Midwest cowboy, Pittsburgh nigga
Came from a city where them niggas they some killas
Midwest cowboy, Pittsburgh nigga
Came from a city where them niggas they some killas
Midwest cowboy, Pittsburgh nigga
Came from a city where them niggas they some killas
The lyrics in Wiz Khalifa's song "Cowboy" tell the story of a young man trying to make a living and escape the harsh realities of his environment. He is depicted as a determined individual who is determined to find success through his own hard work and perseverance.
The opening lines describe this young man as someone who may be small in stature but possesses a strong ambition and a well-thought-out plan. He carries a significant amount of money in his left hand and a pistol in his right, suggesting that he is both financially ambitious and aware of the dangers that come with his chosen path. He counts every dollar he earns because he understands the value of hard work. However, the lyrics also warn others not to approach him since they might face dire consequences for attempting to take advantage of him.
The song highlights the absence of parental figures in his life, with his mother working and his father absent from the picture. This lack of support motivates him to rely solely on himself and take matters into his own hands, emphasizing the idea that he has to make his own opportunities in life. The repetition of the phrase "he got it on his own" reinforces the theme of self-reliance.
The chorus repeats the lines "Midwest cowboy, Pittsburgh nigga, came from a city where them niggas they some killers," emphasizing the challenging environment the singer comes from and the tough reputation his city holds. He is characterized as a cowboy in the Midwest, a metaphor suggesting his resilience and determination to succeed despite the obstacles he faces in his urban surroundings.
The second verse depicts this young man involved in illegal activities, such as drug dealing. He navigates the dangerous world of selling drugs while also using them himself. The lyrics describe a situation where he faces some setbacks, losing money and facing legal troubles, but manages to bounce back and regain what he lost. The verse emphasizes the loyalty of his friends, who have his back and support him through thick and thin.
The final verse continues to showcase his luxurious lifestyle and the risks he takes. He wears expensive jewelry and is involved with other people's partners, adopting a careless attitude towards the consequences of his actions. The lyrics caution him about his association with haters, indicating that he might face grave consequences for his choices. The song ends with a grim realization, suggesting that he pays the ultimate price for his involvement in destructive habits.
Overall, "Cowboy" paints a vivid picture of a determined young man striving to better himself in a challenging environment. It portrays the realities of urban life, the dangers of illegal activities, and the consequences of making poor choices. The lyrics shed light on the singer's relentless pursuit of success despite the obstacles he faces and ultimately serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of a life mixed with ambition, crime, and betrayal.
Line by Line Meaning
Mhmm
This expresses a sense of approval or agreement.
That's just how it is man
This line implies the acceptance of a certain reality or situation.
Round my way
This refers to the specific area or neighborhood the artist is from.
Just a young lil' nigga, but he had the right plan
Despite being young, the person mentioned in the song had a well-thought-out strategy.
Twenty-thousand in his left, pistol in his right hand
He carried a large amount of money and a gun for protection.
Counting every dollar that he get, cause he worked for it
He values every dollar he earns because he earned it through hard work.
But don't run up on him 'cause you'll probably get murked for it
One should not approach or threaten him, as they may face serious consequences.
Mom's out working, Daddy wasn't home
His mother was employed while his father was absent.
Ain't nobody give it to him, so he got it on his own
He achieved success and acquired wealth through his own efforts and determination.
Yeah, he got it on his own
He takes pride in accomplishing things independently.
You want something, gotta take it
To achieve your desires, you have to be proactive and seize opportunities.
Tryna get up out the hood, but he'll probably never make it
Although he strives to escape his disadvantaged neighborhood, he believes it's unlikely he'll succeed.
He's a midwest cowboy, Pittsburgh nigga
He identifies himself as someone who embodies both the characteristics of a cowboy and a tough resident of Pittsburgh.
Came from a city where them niggas they some killas
He hails from a place known for its violent residents.
Slanging looking for them people hopping out them white vans
He engages in illegal drug dealing and actively searches for potential customers.
Standing on the corner rolling up their marijuana
He and his associates spend time in public, smoking marijuana.
Smoking weed and selling packs of D till you're a gonner
Their illegal activities involve selling drugs and risking one's life until they meet a deadly end.
Caught a case and lost some racks, the nigga got it back
He faced legal trouble and lost some money, but ultimately managed to recover his lost funds.
In any case a nigga disrespect, he's on his back
If someone disrespects him, he will retaliate violently.
He bought a pack, then bought a strap
He purchased illegal drugs and a firearm for self-defense.
His niggas got his back
His friends are loyal and supportive of him.
His life has changed it's gone to smack
His life has taken a turn for the worse, possibly due to his involvement in criminal activities.
And ain't no turning back
There is no possibility of reversing or undoing the consequences of his choices.
Wore a lot of jewelry, he slept with it on his nightstand
He owned expensive jewelry and kept it within reach while sleeping for reassurance and protection.
Made a lot of money and he got it all from hustling
He earned a significant amount of money solely through his illegal activities.
Came from a good family but say he can't get enough of it
Despite having a loving family, he is still drawn to the allure of his criminal lifestyle.
All up in the club and he ain't looking for a ring
He frequents nightclubs, but his intention is not finding a committed relationship or marriage.
Fucking other niggas bitches, yeah he swear that was his thing
Engaging in sexual relations with other men's partners is something he takes pride in or claims as his expertise.
Yeah, he learned a little lesson 'bout messing with them haters
He faced negative consequences and learned from a negative experience involving jealous or envious individuals.
Cause they found his body later
The outcome of dealing with these haters was fatal, resulting in his death.
Guess that's what he get for fucking with them...
His fate was a consequence of getting involved with these individuals who held animosity towards him.
Lyrics Β© BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Reservoir Media Management, Inc.
Written by: CAMERON THOMAZ, MARKOUS ROBERTS, LEXUS LEWIS, JACQUES WEBSTER
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Brian Thompson
Wiz is one of the most unappreciated rappers for some odd reason...I guess people don't know what true art is anymore
Mr. Forbis
I think you know whom I shall be my friend. I am looking for more musicians and friends of all sorts ;) if you want a low place then talk to me brother Jesus is with us brother and Mother Earth is calling us. Fight the real fight man and get these poor as mutha's some work to sell ASAP I'm taking merchandise my friend. No need to pursue me and shoot me in the brain the government has my back and I know it. My birthday is 04151991 and I was the nigga that pulled the fire alarm in the bank with address of 420 near Kansas City the say tech N9ne played rock fest. And my nurse talked to me her name was Mary' she was real nice. Stephen spealburb told me because he was the doctor....-and that bitch ass buff punk doesn't understand any one could be a shooter but I like words more than weapons ya feel.... it's about to get real weird soon beautiful humans
Fred Krueger
Exactly
Little Goofy Ass Nigga!
Hopsin*
Raqi_M0h
Brian Thompson fr BRUH all these niggas listening to lil pump and shit no one appreciates the OG's anymore
Ryan Caruso
Brian Thompson, not like it matters when everyfuckingbody knows who he is
Wave God
This gonna blow up quick! Straight fire!!!
Nate Gardner
Still waiting for that blow up..
Ajo P
Jonny Blaze we got Rolling Papers 2 now :D
Sean Mentoya
Wave God 4 mill views.....