As one of the six epicenters of Southern hip hop, Memphis has always had a thriving underground capable of producing major platinum superstars such as Eightball & MJG, 3-6 Mafia and Project Pat,Skip a.k.a Gianni Booker. All of the above-mentioned artists at one point in time literally dominated the cityโs underground rap scene before going on to become national superstars. Next up to bat is Yo Gotti, M-Townโs current underground rap kingpin. Like his namesake John Gotti, the Memphis based rapper has been running the Southern underground scene with an iron fist for the past. Known and respected throughout the South for his skill and finesse on the microphone, Yo Gotti is one the Southโs most respected young rappers.
Born Mario Mims, Yo Gotti grew up in the infamous Ridge Crest Apartments in a North Memphis neighborhood called Frazier. His childhood was typical for a poor ghetto youth in the Deep South. Raised in a family of hustlers and exposed to hard times 24 hours a day the Tennessee rap titan soon turned to the only thing that he knew could get him paid, hustling. โBeing from the hood things like hustling will come your way,โ says Yo Gotti. โEverybody in my family hustled in some kinda way.โ Ironically, hustling is what ultimately led Yo Gotti to rapping.
Taking his cue from Memphis rap legends such as Eightball & MJG, Al Kapone, Gangsta Black, Triple 6 Mafia and Kingpin Skinny Pimp, all of whom he lists as influences, Yo Gotti released his own underground tape entitled, Youngster on the Come Up and placed it on consignment at local mom & pop record stores as well as hustling it out the trunk. The tape sold like hotcakes on the street and made Yo Gotti the hottest rapper on the streets of Memphis. From the Dope Game to the Rap Game, Yo Gottiโs sophomore effort sold so well that Select-O-Hits, a local based independent distributor offered him a small deal and the Memphis rapper more than doubled his fan base with absolutely no marketing or promotions. Soon he found himself ranked among the cityโs top rappers. In addition to being featured on the cover of Murderdog Magazine along side his idols Kingpin Skinny Pimp and Al Kapone his record From the Dope Game to the Rap Game made the list for the magazineโs top independent record for the year 2000.
Two years later he inked a distribution deal with TVT Records and released the critically acclaimed album Life, which did respectable numbers for an independent label. โIt sold about 40 or 50,000, with no promotions or video,โ says Yo Gotti. โThat record did what it did on its own.โ But as the old saying goes when one door is closed another opened. Gottiโs reputation as the king of Memphis continued to spread and that eventually led him to a production deal with Cash Money/Universal records for his group the Block Burnaz. With his TVT sophomore album entitled Back 2 Da Basics, Yo Gotti returns with the same hardcore street flavor that his die-hard fans have come to know and love, only this time around the true king of Memphis has elevated his game a bit. Given the fact that his last record didnโt do the type of big number heโd hope for youโd think that Yo Gotti would switch up his style to reach a larger audience. Right? Wrong! According to Gotti his street credibility with his underground fans means more to him than gold or platinum status.
โThe one thing that you have to understand is that when you create a fan base off of street product the last thing you wanna do is disrespect them by changing because of the record companies and stuff like that. When you do that you change what created you. To me it is very important that I keep in tune with the people that helped to sell 40,000 records independently. Thatโs why I call my record Back 2 Da Basics.โ
Produced by DJ Thoomp, Mannie Fresh, Carlos Brody and newcomers Street Tunes, Back 2 Da Basics offers fans a gritty, insiderโs view into the real streets of Memphis as seen through the eyes of Yo Gotti. Nowhere is this viewpoint more intense than on โFull Time,โ the amped up lead single โand featured in the MTV Filmsโ Hustle & Flow movie - with a thunderous bass and intoxicating beat that espouses Gottiโs formula to success โhustle full time.
โA lotta cats wanna be a rapper or a street hustler but they donโt wanna put in the time that it takes,โ says Yo Gotti. โThey want the money and the cars and the girls, but they donโt wanna work hard for it. But to be successful at anything you gotta grind for it.โ On the song โMama We Gone Be Alright,โ he waxes introspective by reflecting on all of the hard times that he and his family have suffered through the years and offers her hope-filled words encouragement. โMama We Gone Be Alrightโ along with the gripping tune โMy Storyโ emerges as two of the most interesting songs on Back 2 Da Basics. These three titles along with club banging songs like โShortyโ featuring Baby make Back 2 Da Basics one of the best albums of the year.
Free Game
Yo Gotti Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
It's only one of me, homie
(Reece, take 'em to church)
Ayy, I gave niggas the blueprint
I showed niggas how to get to the money
I never asked 'em for nothin'
Not even respect, I took that
It's 2021, the new drug dealers consumers, uh
What a life, what a life (what a life)
Ten million dollar crib, nigga, I was sellin' white, cocaine
I did my thing, I never spoke on names (never ever)
Respect the game, I always knew my lane (stayed clever)
The plug came, made sure they got their change (all the cheddar)
The street different, the shit ain't the same (how you let this)
Public figures endorsin' these rats (rats)
I told my plug he should give me a plaque (plaque)
I'm tryna value my accomplishments (accomplishments)
Without the money, don't make common sense (common sense)
I watched my mama struggle with the rent (too many times)
Now my mama ain't gotta worry since (what a peace of mind)
Yeah, I'm a business man (man)
Told my homie, you want a loan, give me your business plan, ayy (what up?)
I'm with the Roc, baby (Dynasty)
FN on me, I been buying stock lately
Pandemic who? I love droughts (love droughts)
This the time to show you what a hustler 'bout (I am)
Summertime, muscle cars, I brought them custom's out (vroom, vroom)
I get questioned at customs, they always pick me out (damn)
I remember mama wanted to kick me out (why?)
I remember grandma told me gangsters move in silence so don't speak without (shh)
Thinkin', niggas sinkin' (sinkin'), I see 'em linkin' (linkin')
You going against me, what the fuck you thinkin'?
What you been smokin' and what you drinkin'? (Drinkin')
I know you ain't focused, I see you blinkin' (blinkin')
My watch like three fifty and it ain't blingin' (not a stone)
Not one single stone, do you know the meaning?
Free game, buy that shit Plain Jane (Jane)
The jeweler tell you buss it down, won't say the same thing
Hold your value like you buying property (property)
I'm buyin' land like I'm playin' Monopoly (Monopoly)
I'ma G.O.A.T., I expect these niggas to copy me
I'm kinda flattered, that lil' shit don't bother me
Free game
Free game
Free game
This free game (this free game)
Pregame too, you know what I'm sayin'?
We only wanted to become a millionaire
Just left the bank, they say is fifty million there
You had a silver spoon, we had no silverware (silverware)
We come from the mud, we had to get it there (players)
I switch the whole flow up like a bitch glow up (uh)
Smoke grape Fanta, Birkin C still throw up
I'll make a bitch grow up fast
I'm on they ass, I'm in my bag
And I'll go out bad 'fore I go out sad
The song "Free Game" by Yo Gotti tackles various themes such as success, hustle, and personal growth. In the first verse, Yo Gotti claims that he provided others with a blueprint on how to make money and become successful, without asking for anything in return. He emphasizes that he never revealed anyone's name and always respected the rules of the game. He also criticizes public figures who endorse disloyal individuals.
The chorus of the song emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge and advice ("free game"), suggesting that understanding the game is essential for success. Yo Gotti raps about his accomplishments and how he values them, asserting that money is an important factor in determining success. He reflects on his past experiences, witnessing his mother struggle financially, and takes pride in the fact that he can now provide her with peace of mind.
In the second verse, Yo Gotti presents himself as a business-minded individual who encourages his friends to come up with a solid business plan if they want his support. He mentions his affiliation with Roc Nation and his recent investments in stocks. He also references the pandemic, expressing his resilience as a hustler and his ability to thrive even during challenging times.
Yo Gotti further asserts his status as a seasoned hustler and suggests that others try to imitate him. He mentions the importance of not revealing too much and staying focused. He remarks on the meaning of true wealth, highlighting the need to hold value and invest in property and land rather than flashy jewelry. He also acknowledges that being imitated doesn't bother him, suggesting that it's a form of flattery.
The song concludes with a final repetition of the chorus, emphasizing the importance of gaining knowledge and wisdom ("free game"). Yo Gotti acknowledges his humble beginnings and the struggles he faced, contrasting them with his current success. He asserts his confidence and determination, stating that he would rather go out in a blaze of glory than succumb to failure. Overall, the lyrics convey Yo Gotti's mindset as a self-made hustler who values his accomplishments and shares his wisdom with others.
Line by Line Meaning
Yeah, yah
Yeah, uh
It's only one of me, homie
I am unique, my own person
(Reece, take 'em to church)
(Producer Reece, set the tone)
Ayy, I gave niggas the blueprint
I provided guidance
I showed niggas how to get to the money
I taught them how to be financially successful
I never asked 'em for nothin'
I never relied on them for anything
Not even respect, I took that
I earned respect through my actions
Rumors (rumors), niggas spreadin' rumors (lies)
False information being spread by individuals
It's 2021, the new drug dealers consumers, uh
In the modern era, drug dealers are also users
What a life, what a life (what a life)
Such an extraordinary life
Ten million dollar crib, nigga, I was sellin' white, cocaine
I made significant wealth from selling cocaine
I did my thing, I never spoke on names (never ever)
I achieved success without revealing identities
Respect the game, I always knew my lane (stayed clever)
I honored the rules and stayed focused on my path
The plug came, made sure they got their change (all the cheddar)
I ensured the suppliers received their share of profits
The street different, the shit ain't the same (how you let this)
The street life has changed, it's not as reliable
Public figures endorsin' these rats (rats)
Influential people supporting disloyal individuals
I told my plug he should give me a plaque (plaque)
I requested recognition from my supplier
I'm tryna value my accomplishments (accomplishments)
I want to appreciate my achievements
Without the money, don't make common sense (common sense)
Financial stability is necessary for logical decisions
I watched my mama struggle with the rent (too many times)
I witnessed my mother's repeated struggles to pay rent
Now my mama ain't gotta worry since (what a peace of mind)
Now my mother can live without worries
Yeah, I'm a business man (man)
Yes, I am a successful entrepreneur
Told my homie, you want a loan, give me your business plan, ayy (what up?)
I asked my friend to present a business proposal for a loan
I'm with the Roc, baby (Dynasty)
I am affiliated with Roc Nation, representing success and power
FN on me, I been buying stock lately
I carry a firearm and have been investing in stocks
Pandemic who? I love droughts (love droughts)
I thrive during times of scarcity (like a drought)
This the time to show you what a hustler 'bout (I am)
Now is the opportunity to demonstrate my entrepreneurial skills
Summertime, muscle cars, I brought them custom's out (vroom, vroom)
During the summer, I showcase my customized muscle cars
I get questioned at customs, they always pick me out (damn)
When going through customs, I am frequently targeted for scrutiny
I remember mama wanted to kick me out (why?)
My mother contemplated evicting me
I remember grandma told me gangsters move in silence so don't speak without (shh)
My grandmother emphasized the importance of being discreet
Thinkin', niggas sinkin' (sinkin'), I see 'em linkin' (linkin')
Observing individuals making poor choices and forming alliances
You going against me, what the fuck you thinkin'?
If you oppose me, what are you expecting?
What you been smokin' and what you drinkin'? (Drinkin')
What substances have you been consuming?
I know you ain't focused, I see you blinkin' (blinkin')
I recognize that you lack concentration
My watch like three fifty and it ain't blingin' (not a stone)
My watch is worth $350,000, but it doesn't have flashy gems
Not one single stone, do you know the meaning?
There is no jewelry on my watch, do you understand the significance?
Free game, buy that shit Plain Jane (Jane)
Valuable advice, purchase it without embellishments
The jeweler tell you buss it down, won't say the same thing
The jeweler may encourage you to add more diamonds, but I advise otherwise
Hold your value like you buying property (property)
Maintain your worth, as if you're investing in real estate
I'm buyin' land like I'm playin' Monopoly (Monopoly)
I am acquiring properties like in the game Monopoly
I'ma G.O.A.T., I expect these niggas to copy me
I am a greatest of all time, so I anticipate others imitating me
I'm kinda flattered, that lil' shit don't bother me
I am somewhat honored, and their attempts don't affect me negatively
Free game
Valuable advice
Free game
Valuable advice
Free game
Valuable advice
This free game (this free game)
This is valuable advice
Pregame too, you know what I'm sayin'?
Preparing in advance, do you understand?
We only wanted to become a millionaire
Our goal was simply to accumulate a million dollars
Just left the bank, they say is fifty million there
I recently visited the bank, and they informed me I have fifty million dollars
You had a silver spoon, we had no silverware (silverware)
You grew up privileged, while we lacked basic necessities
We come from the mud, we had to get it there (players)
We originate from poverty, and we had to work hard to succeed
I switch the whole flow up like a bitch glow up (uh)
I completely changed my style and approach, just like a woman's transformation
Smoke grape Fanta, Birkin C still throw up
I smoke a particular type of marijuana and carry expensive Birkin bags
I'll make a bitch grow up fast
I can quickly force someone to mature
I'm on they ass, I'm in my bag
I am constantly chasing success and focused on my goals
And I'll go out bad 'fore I go out sad
I would rather face failure than display weakness
Lyrics ยฉ Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: Mario Mims, Damien Aubrey, Reece Ivory
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Tee Blacc
โIโm A Businessman, Told My Homie You Want A Loan Give Me A Business Plan โ It donโt get no realer then that ๐ฏ๐ฅ
Carlos peather
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username
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Destiny McDonald
Most definitely donโt ๐ฏ
Diesle TheFitnessFragranceGuy
๐ฏ ๐ช๐พ
FOE360
The way the beat switched up at the end om gawd! This shit too โฝ BEEN A FAN SINCE DAY1! Another gold album to me.. Salute the man cz all these tracks lit. The flow, the bars, the beats and over all the message! Thank u for giving it blood raw. Talk about the struggle but also how to overcome it on some boss shit! ๐ช ๐๐๐๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ whole album got me ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐ฆ
Si โค๏ธ
This shit gave me chills ๐ชโค๏ธโค๏ธโค๏ธ
Yo Gotti
Hey prettyface, I know this may come as a surprise to you but Iโm saying thanks for being a fan
Alexandria Tiffany
Yo Gotti go in soo hard on this right here, straight up BANGER! He aint like all them trappers and oppas who just be usin that AUTHENTICVIEWS to go big like Slim Jesus dun did... SMH
Benji Panera CMG
He gave me the blue print off ALL mix tapes and albums well structure to my hustle and DREAMS๐ฐ๐ฐ๐ฐ๐คซ