Ruff Ryders Anthem
DMX feat. 2Pac Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴Uh
Somethin' new
Stop, drop, shut 'em down, open up shop
Oh, no
That's how Ruff Ryders roll
Stop, drop, shut 'em down, open up shop
Oh, no
Niggas wanna try (what?)
Niggas wanna lie (what?)
Then niggas wonder why (what?)
Niggas wanna die (what?)
All I know is pain (what?)
All I feel is rain (what?)
How can I maintain (what?)
With mad shit on my brain? (What?)
I resort to violence (what?)
My niggas move in silence (what?)
Like you don't know what our style is (what?)
New York niggas the wildest (what?)
My niggas is wit' it (what?)
You want it? Come and get it (what?)
Took it, then we split it (what?)
You fuckin' right, we did it (what?)
What the fuck you gon' do (what?)
When we run up on you? (What?)
Fuckin' wit' the wrong crew (what?)
Don't know what we goin' through (what?)
I'ma have to show niggas (what?)
How easily we blow niggas (what?)
Lemme find out there's some more niggas (what?)
That's runnin' with your niggas (what?)
Nothin' we can't handle (what?)
Break it up and dismantle (what?)
Light it up like a candle (what?)
Just 'cause I can't stand you (what?)
Put my shit on tapes (what?)
Like you bussin' grapes (what?)
Think you holdin' weight? (What?)
Then you haven't met the apes (what?)
Stop, drop, shut 'em down, open up shop
Oh, no
That's how Ruff Ryders roll
Stop, drop, shut 'em down, open up shop
Oh, no
That's how Ruff Ryders roll
Is y'all niggas crazy? (What?)
I'll bust you and be Swayze (what?)
Stop actin' like a baby (what?)
Mind your business, lady (what?)
Nosy people get it too (what?)
When you see me spit at you (what?)
You know I'm tryin' to get rid of you (what?)
Yeah, I know it's pitiful (what?)
That's how niggas get down (what?)
Watch my niggas split rounds (what?)
Make y'all niggas kiss ground (what?)
Just for talkin' shit, clown (what?)
Oh, you think it's funny (what?)
Then you don't know me, money (what?)
It's about to get ugly (what?)
Fuck it, dog, I'm hungry (what?)
I guess you know what that mean (what?)
Come up off that green (what?)
Rob niggas on Ravine (what?)
Don't make it a murder scene (what?)
Give a dog a bone (what?)
Leave a dog alone (what?)
Let a dog roam (what?)
And he'll find his way home (what?)
Home of the brave (what?)
My home is a cage (what?)
And yo, I'm a slave (what?)
'Til my home is the grave (what?)
I'ma pull capers (what?)
It's all about the papers (what?)
Bitches caught the vapors (what?)
And how they wanna rape us (what?)
Stop, drop, shut 'em down, open up shop
Oh, no
That's how Ruff Ryders roll
Stop, drop, shut 'em down, open up shop
Oh, no
That's how Ruff Ryders roll
Look what you done started? (What?)
Asked for it, you got it (what?)
Had it, should have shot it (what?)
Now you're dearly departed (what?)
Get at me, dog, did I rip shit? (What?)
With this one here, I flip shit (what?)
Niggas know when I kick shit (what?)
It's gonna be some slick shit (what?)
What was that look for (what?)
When I walked in the door? (What?)
Oh, you thought you was raw? (What?)
Boom, not anymore (what?)
'Cause now you on the floor (what?)
Wishin' you'd never saw (what?)
Me walk through that door (what?)
With that four-four (what?)
Now it's time for bed (what?)
Two more to the head (what?)
Got the floor red (what?)
Yeah, that nigga's dead (what?)
Another unsolved mystery (what?)
Is goin' down in history (what?)
Niggas ain't never did shit to me (what?)
Bitch ass niggas can't get to me (what?)
Gots to make a move (what?)
Got a point to prove (what?)
Gotta make 'em groove (what?)
Got 'em all like "ooh" (what?)
So 'til the next time (what?)
You hear this nigga rhyme (what?)
Try to keep your mind (what?)
On gettin' pussy and crime (what?)
Stop, drop, shut 'em down, open up shop
Talk is cheap, motherfucker
Overall Meaning
The lyrics to DMX feat. 2Pac's song Ruff Ryders start with the chorus repeating "Stop, drop, shut 'em down, open up shop, that's how Ruff Ryders roll." The chorus is a nod to the Ruff Ryders record label founded in 1998 by Joaquin "Waah" Dean and Darin "Dee" Dean, which helped to launch the careers of DMX, Eve and The LOX. The Ruff Ryders' signature anthem of the same title was released in 1998, and it quickly became one of the label's most successful hits, earning a spot on the Billboard Hot 100 at number 10.
The rest of the song is about the violent, harsh realities of living in the ghetto, with a focus on gang life. X and Pac rap about the pain and rain (both emotional and literal) that they feel, and how they resort to violence and silence to deal with their issues. They rap about the consequences of talking shit and the price that people will pay if they try to cross them. The song is an ode to the street life, where survival of the fittest is key, and anyone who isn't ready for the fight will fall to the wayside.
Overall, the lyrics are gritty, raw, and honest about the realities of life for men of color in underprivileged areas. DMX and 2Pac's style and flow complement each other well in this song, with both artists delivering powerful lyrics that speak to their experiences.
Line by Line Meaning
Uh
Introducing the song with a casual expression, indicating something different is about to happen
Somethin' new
Presenting a fresh and unique sound or concept
Stop, drop, shut 'em down, open up shop
Taking action and asserting dominance, overpowering all obstacles
Oh, no
Expressing surprise or disbelief at the situation unfolding
That's how Ruff Ryders roll
Describing the signature style and attitude of the Ruff Ryders crew
Niggas wanna try (what?)
Referring to individuals who seek to challenge or provoke
Niggas wanna lie (what?)
Pointing out those who engage in falsehoods and deception
Then niggas wonder why (what?)
Highlighting the confusion or lack of understanding from such individuals
Niggas wanna die (what?)
Suggesting the consequences that may befall those who provoke further
All I know is pain (what?)
Expressing the overwhelming presence of suffering and hardship
All I feel is rain (what?)
Describing a constant sense of sadness or negativity
How can I maintain (what?)
Questioning the ability to uphold stability and composure
With mad shit on my brain? (What?)
Acknowledging the heavy burden of troubling thoughts and concerns
I resort to violence (what?)
Indicating a reliance on aggression and force to handle conflicts
My niggas move in silence (what?)
Highlighting the discreet and secretive nature of their actions
Like you don't know what our style is (what?)
Showing how others are unaware or unfamiliar with their distinct approach
New York niggas the wildest (what?)
Asserting the unruly and fierce reputation of New York-based individuals
My niggas is wit' it (what?)
Confirming the readiness and willingness of their crew
You want it? Come and get it (what?)
Inviting challengers to engage, indicating they will face the consequences
Took it, then we split it (what?)
Asserting their ability to claim resources and divide them amongst themselves
You fuckin' right, we did it (what?)
Celebrating their achievements and successful actions
What the fuck you gon' do (what?)
Challenging the opponent to confront their crew's power
When we run up on you? (What?)
Posing a rhetorical question about the consequences when they confront their target
Fuckin' wit' the wrong crew (what?)
Warning others that they have chosen the incorrect group to provoke
Don't know what we goin' through (what?)
Highlighting the struggles and difficult circumstances they face
I'ma have to show niggas (what?)
Expressing the need to demonstrate their abilities and power to others
How easily we blow niggas (what?)
Displaying their capability to eliminate opponents without much effort
Lemme find out there's some more niggas (what?)
Expressing the intention to discover if there are additional rivals to deal with
That's runnin' with your niggas (what?)
Referring to the individuals associated with the target and suggesting that they are not safe either
Nothin' we can't handle (what?)
Assuring that they are capable of managing any situation
Break it up and dismantle (what?)
Determining to disassemble and destroy any opposition
Light it up like a candle (what?)
Promising to ignite and intensify the situation like a burning candle
Just 'cause I can't stand you (what?)
Revealing a personal dislike towards the provoker as a driving motivation
Put my shit on tapes (what?)
Recording their experiences and actions for others to listen to
Like you bussin' grapes (what?)
Emphasizing the comparison between their recordings and the act of crushing grapes
Think you holdin' weight? (What?)
Mocking the opponent's perception of their influence and significance
Then you haven't met the apes (what?)
Asserting that the opponent is unaware of their true power and nature
Is y'all niggas crazy? (What?)
Questioning the sanity and rationality of the individuals involved
I'll bust you and be Swayze (what?)
Threatening to harm and incapacitate the opponent, comparing himself to Patrick Swayze, known for his tough roles
Stop actin' like a baby (what?)
Advising the opponent to stop behaving childishly or immaturely
Mind your business, lady (what?)
Instructing an intrusive female to focus on her own affairs
Nosy people get it too (what?)
Warning that those who pry into others' business will also face consequences
When you see me spit at you (what?)
Referring to delivering aggressive and potent lyrical verses directly towards the opponent
You know I'm tryin' to get rid of you (what?)
Making it clear that the goal is to eliminate the opponent from their lives
Yeah, I know it's pitiful (what?)
Acknowledging that the situation is lamentable or unfortunate
That's how niggas get down (what?)
Describing their typical behavior and approach to confrontations
Watch my niggas split rounds (what?)
Observing how their crew distributes forceful blows and divides the opposition
Make y'all niggas kiss ground (what?)
Forcing the opponents to submit and acknowledge their authority
Just for talkin' shit, clown (what?)
Demonstrating that mere disrespectful words are enough to invoke their wrath
Oh, you think it's funny (what?)
Expressing the perception that the opponent finds amusement in their confrontations
Then you don't know me, money (what?)
Asserting that the opponent lacks understanding of their true nature and capabilities
It's about to get ugly (what?)
Warning that the situation is about to escalate into chaos and hostility
Fuck it, dog, I'm hungry (what?)
Declaring a strong desire for power, success, or dominance
I guess you know what that mean (what?)
Hinting that the opponent should be aware of the impending consequences
Come up off that green (what?)
Demanding the opponent to relinquish their money or valuable possessions
Rob niggas on Ravine (what?)
Suggesting a location where they exploit and steal from others
Don't make it a murder scene (what?)
Cautioning against escalating the situation to a lethal outcome
Give a dog a bone (what?)
Offering a meager reward or opportunity to the opponent
Leave a dog alone (what?)
Advising the opponent to avoid further confrontation or interference
Let a dog roam (what?)
Allowing themselves the freedom to move around and operate without restriction
And he'll find his way home (what?)
Indicating that they will eventually return to their base or place of dominance
Home of the brave (what?)
Referring to their crew's origin as a place of courage and daring
My home is a cage (what?)
Suggesting that their home or environment restricts their freedom and forces them into a confined space
And yo, I'm a slave (what?)
Acknowledging that they are bound and controlled by exterior forces
'Til my home is the grave (what?)
Stating that their only escape from confinement is death
I'ma pull capers (what?)
Referring to engaging in risky and audacious actions
It's all about the papers (what?)
Highlighting the primary focus and motivation being financial gain
Bitches caught the vapors (what?)
Noting that women are fascinated and attracted to their lifestyle or reputation
And how they wanna rape us (what?)
Describing the strong desires and intentions of others to exploit them
Look what you done started? (What?)
Addressing the consequences and impact of the opponent's actions
Asked for it, you got it (what?)
Asserting that the opponent received what they requested or provoked
Had it, should have shot it (what?)
Regretting that the situation wasn't handled more decisively or aggressively
Now you're dearly departed (what?)
Confirming that the opponent has met a fatal end or is severely harmed
Get at me, dog, did I rip shit? (What?)
Challenging the opponent to acknowledge the intensity and impact of their performance or actions
With this one here, I flip shit (what?)
Boasting about their ability to change the dynamics and outcome of a situation
Niggas know when I kick shit (what?)
Pointing out that others are fully aware of the power and effectiveness of their actions
It's gonna be some slick shit (what?)
Anticipating that their tactics and maneuvers will be cunning and difficult to evade
What was that look for (what?)
Questioning the opponent's expression or response to their presence
When I walked in the door? (What?)
Posing a rhetorical question about the impact and attention they garner upon arrival
Oh, you thought you was raw? (What?)
Challenging the opponent's assumption of their own strength or superiority
Boom, not anymore (what?)
Asserting that their entrance instantly nullifies any perceived power of the opponent
'Cause now you on the floor (what?)
Describing the opponent's defeat or submission as they lie on the ground
Wishin' you'd never saw (what?)
Expressing the regret or desire to have avoided encountering them
Me walk through that door (what?)
Referring to their entrance as the catalyst for the unfolding events
With that four-four (what?)
Possessing a powerful firearm, likely a .44 caliber
Now it's time for bed (what?)
Signaling the end of the opponent's reign or consciousness, potentially leading to their demise
Two more to the head (what?)
Delivering two additional shots to ensure the opponent's incapacitation or death
Got the floor red (what?)
Indicating that the ground is stained with blood from their actions
Yeah, that nigga's dead (what?)
Confirming the fate of the opponent as deceased
Another unsolved mystery (what?)
Referring to the opponent's demise as an unresolved case or puzzle
Is goin' down in history (what?)
Stating that the event will be remembered and recounted in the future
Niggas ain't never did shit to me (what?)
Claiming that the opponent never posed a threat or harm to themselves
Bitch ass niggas can't get to me (what?)
Asserting that weak or cowardly individuals are incapable of causing them harm or distress
Gots to make a move (what?)
Expressing the need to take action or make decisions
Got a point to prove (what?)
Having a specific objective or goal to validate their capabilities
Gotta make 'em groove (what?)
Highlighting the desire to make others react or conform to their lead
Got 'em all like 'ooh' (what?)
Expressing a sense of awe or admiration from those witnessing their actions
So 'til the next time (what?)
Looking forward to future encounters or opportunities
You hear this nigga rhyme (what?)
Referring to their own skills and ability to captivate through their lyrics
Try to keep your mind (what?)
Advising the audience to stay focused and attentive
On gettin' pussy and crime (what?)
Suggesting that their priorities should revolve around sex and illegal activities
Stop, drop, shut 'em down, open up shop
Repeating the assertion of dominance and control, emphasizing the power they possess
Talk is cheap, motherfucker
Concluding with a bold statement, disregarding empty words and demanding action instead
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Earl Simmons, Kasseem Dean
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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