my google plus page my youtube channel my twitter my facebook my listen fm station

the album

by Shames Worthy

the album cover art
/

  • Physical CD

    FINALLY the physical CDs are in stock and ready to ship anywhere in the world! Includes immediate download of the mp3s to bump while you wait the limited edition CD to arrive.

    Buy Now  $10 USD or more

    ships within 2 days
    edition of 1000

  • Limited Edition T-shirt (charcoal grey shirt w black ink)

    Only 1 dozen of each color were printed. Sizes S thru XXL available. A free "Shames Worthy" sticker will also be included with your purchase. Please support a truly independent artist!

    Buy Now  $20 USD or more

    ships within 2 days
    edition of 12  8 remaining

  • Limited Edition T-shirt (Cardinal red shirt w gun metal ink)

    This is actually my favorite color combination. The picture is a little deceiving. The shirt's more like a brick red. The "gun metal" ink looks super sick too. It has a slight sparkle which actually makes it look like grip tape on a skateboard or black/grey sand paper. It really pops.

    Buy Now  $20 USD or more

    ships within 1 day
    edition of 12  4 remaining

  • Limited Edition T-shirt (Raiders Edition-black shirt w silver ink)

    Silver & Black for all the Raider fans out there. ***make sure to wash inside out cuz for some reason the bright silver ink fades after washer quicker than the other inks. Actually ends up with a cool slightly aged look, but just not as bright.***

    Buy Now  $20 USD or more

    ships within 1 day
    edition of 12  6 remaining

  • Digital Album

    Immediate download of 15-track album in your choice of MP3 320, FLAC, or just about any other format you could possibly desire.

    Buy Now  $8 USD  or more

  • Share / Embed
1.
02:37
lyrics
download
2.
03:52
lyrics
download
3.
03:42
lyrics
download
4.
03:45
lyrics
download
5.
03:43
lyrics
download
6.
05:05
lyrics
download
7.
04:02
lyrics
download
8.
02:27
lyrics
download
9.
04:08
lyrics
download
10.
03:47
lyrics
download
11.
03:48
lyrics
download
12.
03:36
lyrics
download
13.
04:15
lyrics
download
14.
04:07
lyrics
download
15.
04:25
lyrics
download

about

He's been referred to as "the emcee's emcee". He’s a founding member of the Tunnel Rats crew as well as the group Footsoldiers. Raphi, who now goes by Shames Worthy paid his dues at such legendary spots as The Good Life, Project Blowed, Elements, Unity, The Breaks & Foundation during "the wonder years" of L.A. Hip-Hop. He's been all across the country as well as the UK, Australia & Israel.

He has returned with this highly anticipated solo album..."the album". Known for his ever-changing rhyme patterns & impeccable timing, he doesn't disappoint on his stellar new release. However, with more life experience behind his lyrics, he shows his development as an artist writing songs rather than just a bunch of "dope verses". It's not so much Raphi's sophomore LP as it is the debut of Shames Worthy.

credits

released 11 January 2011
All songs written, produced, arranged,
recorded & mixed by Shames Worthy @ The Caves Worthy lab.
(see individual tracks for additional credits)

All scratches by CLENZ ROC.

beats 2-7, 9, 10, 13 & 15 written & produced by D-ski the illEagle. (illeagle.prod@gmail.com)

beats 1 & 12 written & produced by Shames Worthy himself.

beats 8 & 14 written & produced by Sojourn.

beat 11 written & produced by Peace 586

tags

tags: abstract rude clenz roc d-ski the illeagle hip hop/rap hip-hop indie jurny lpg lyricism rap raphi shames worthy sojourn tunnel rats west coast rap & hip-hop Los Angeles

license

all rights reserved

feeds

feeds for this album, this artist

about

He’s been referred to as “the emcee’s emcee”. He’s a founding member of the TUNNEL RATS crew as well as the group ... more Footsoldiers. RAPHI, who now goes by SHAMES WORTHY paid his dues at such legendary spots as The Good Life, Project Blowed, Elements, Unity, The Breaks & Foundation during “the wonder years” of L.A. Hip-Hop. He’s been all across the country as well as the UK, Australia & Israel. less

discography

contact / help

For help with downloads, click here.

For all other inquiries, including help with merch, click here.

Track Name: intro 48
The time had come to make my run.
I push the buttons.  I'll pull the plug.
I paid my dues and I make my moves.
Became the change, rearranged my views.
Now clarity is mine, prosperity in time.
Building from a dime, I'm relying on the divine.
Brand new perspective on the collective.
Analyze in between the lines and correct it!
Rejected, but have never learned to accept it.
Full-time believer, part-time skeptic.
Out with the old and in with the new. But check it,
My crew's deep. Since 92 we wrecked it.
If we took a title, we kept it. Know this.
A handful of fans worldwide took notice.
Played but I never got paid. That wasn't the focus.
I was too busy just trying to be the dopest.
But you can never be, only ended up the brokest. Bogus!
No magic "hocus-pocus."
Tragic & hopeless? Never that!
Tell yourself "It's the promotors. Man I barely saw posters!"
Look all I know is, give ME the mic and I'm gon' do my part
cuz I can get the party crackin' AND I spit from the heart.
Getting lit in the dark.  No ends? I don't start.
Unleashed, I don't bite and I don't have to bark.
Still I roll with a wolf gang like Mozart.
Throwin' dubs like Noah's Arc.
Straight whaling on 'em. Hard to swallow like Jonah's part.
In the belly of beast, yea you know its hard. Hickup, spit-out.
"Git Up Get Out..." I Cee-lo Green in my bank account.
What's THAT about? Just one of them things I can't figure out.
When things get Thicke, "Gotta Fight the Shadow of Doubt"
and any innaccruate data coming outta my mouth.
After all, I only wish to speak the truth.
I'm in the house! I hear the crowd singin' out,
"Bring him out and make it loud!" So I gotta oblige.
I gotta stay alive. I've got a diehard will to survive.
I aint gon' lie. This aint Shangri-La, more like the slang I fire.
Fully automatic. Causing panic.
March in madness.
So who want static dag-nabit? I got "Flowers in the Attic."
Rhyming for hours, I've got a bad habit.
Yep, I hear a track, spit a rap and I'm back at it.
1 slice at life, gotta take a stab it.
Like a cereal (beat) killer. I'm iller than them all.
But I'm gon' keep it simple. This just the intro y'all.
Track Name: Shames Worthy
Full-speed ahead with a full head of steam
and a Full Metal Jacket. A full-blown dream.
All-star team, I thank GOD for that
but had to travel solo. My mojo is back.
Still a Tunnel Rat from the cradle to the casket.
Got heads spinning like dreidels in an Easter basket.
I'm Beastie Boy with the speech I've mastered.
Got a License to Ill, Fight For the Right to catch it.
So I'm Revered like Paul.
Yes yes y'all! Feeling 10 feet tall.
Got the wake-up call. Saw the writing on the wall.
Tired of the going in circles, no more Tetherball.
Whether all y'all feel him or its just 1.
Rhymin' like Lou Diamond is "Young Guns"
a True Warrior. Don't ArTEST him.
Cuz when I give it to the crowd, no disrespecting Shames Worthy.

Shames Worthy.
Big Game Shames Worthy.
Shames Worthy, that's my name.
Shames Worthy (2x) Uh 1-2 uh 1-2
Shame's Worthy (2x) So are YOU!
Shames Worthy (2x) What it do?
Shame's Worthy (2x) Why Not?!
Shames Worthy (2x)
In case you forgot, Shames Worthy (2x)

Yes, I guess I'm just a "wretch".
I must confess I'm such a mess.
It appears I know much less than peers and counterparts.
Does that account for "heart"?
Cuz I was here before morning. I'll be here after dark.
I wanna leave a lasting spark, not just the last smart remark.
Over where the underdogs bark unleashed in the park.
I'm a beast on the mic but releasing light into the dark.
I fight like my life depends on if I win.
Write tight with my BJ Penn now disciplined.
When the ink sink in, then I begin again.
Rebirth. Reverse. Rehearse in the lion's den.
Coming out untouched. Faith and grace in the clutch.
Don't wanna say too much, but can't say it enough.
Ride a fine line. Remind myself to lay in the cut
'til the curtain comes up.
Then I become Shames Worthy

Shames Worthy.
Big Game Shames Worthy.
Shames Worthy, that's my name.
Shames Worthy (2x) Uh 1-2 uh 1-2
Shame's Worthy (2x) So are YOU!
Shames Worthy (2x) What it do?
Shame's Worthy (2x) Why Not?!
Shames Worthy (2x)
In case you forgot, Shames Worthy (2x)

I'm a loaded weapon. I got Game like Geffen.
I might check-in the mic checkin' section of perfection.
Let him in ladies and gentlemen. Get him in!
Twitterspacebook? Shames Worthy, tell a friend.
Then add him in your "list".
He's adamant about this.
But resist the system!
Put up a fist and show me you're paying attention.
If not, detention. Send in the henchmen just to torment them.
But less than what's left in the lessons I've mentioned.
Kept in much more than I've let them know.
I kept them on their toes
Wrecking at the shows like it was '94
rocking the mic for the coast.
That's what it felt like at "The Life" doing the most.
When it came to flippin' the words, I learned from the pros.
And I NEVER forget but I move on with a new song.
Feeling alright, who's wrong?
Cuz I might "Hit 'em!!" all night.
What's this song called?

Shames Worthy (2x)
Big Game Shames Worthy.
Shames Worthy, that's my name.
Shames Worthy (2x) Uh 1-2 uh 1-2
Shame's Worthy (2x) So are YOU!
Shames Worthy (2x) What it do?
Shame's Worthy (2x) Why Not?!
Shames Worthy (2x)
In case you forgot, Shames Worthy (2x)
Track Name: the anthem
When the beat drops,
its like my heartbeat stops then restarts.
The street talks and I listen.
Its a competition.
Jockey for position.
Raphi on a mission.
No more reminiscin'. I'm in deep thought.
Deep-rooted. Rebooted.
Batteries are not included.
Who the "Undisputed"?
Battle me to prove it.
A 30 second freestyle probably wouldn't do it.
But let's go line-for-line,
rhyme-for-rhyme,
song-for-song,
catalog-to-catalog.
"Bring it on!" like we're in the octagon.
Don't get me wrong.
I'm only pushing the level of creativity,
reciprocating whatever they're giving me.
Vocal agility's my only ability.
I'm hoping you feeling me.
Y? Raph's a Cali G like calligraphy.
I only "drop a L" if it's in that punch-line.
Rewind to find out what I'm talking about.

In the land of the Lakers,
Palm trees, Gangstas,
Roscoe's, In-n-Out,
Staples Center. We about
riding, surviving, providing the mix,
for everybody in the city trying to get a "fix".
(repeat)

Bacnk to the realness.
You feel this Sermon.
Make 'em Parish when I'm giving them the Buisness.
You're like "WHO IS THIS?!"
Yea I got them nervous.
Shames Worthy at your service, like a pallbearer.
MAGICal like Dwight Howard. Tall terror.
Write my love in blood. Hannibal Lecture.
I'll choke a joker, test your jester's gestures.
Play my cards right, deal with it. Yes sir!
They're saying "God blessed you". I'm gesundheit.
Like a red eye flight, I'm up all night.
I'm alright like squares or rectangles.
I'm usually found in the city of lost angels.
Go figure. My rhymes are skylines but mo' bigger.
You saw the picture, didn't think I could flow did ya?
So I gotta get'cha. Now I flow sicker.
I AM G. QUIKer than The Fixxers.

In the land of the Lakers,
Palm trees, Gangstas,
Roscoe's, In-n-Out,
Staples Center. We about
riding, surviving, providing the mix,
for everybody in the city trying to get a "fix".
(repeat)

Right or wrong, moving right along.
As you've heard, I kill a verse.
I need to learn to write a song.
Organize my Confusion "Bring it On".
Use Your Illusion until the Guns are drawn
and the Roses on your coffin.
I suppose I think "I'm awesome." way too often.
My um whatchamacallit Bialik like 'Blossom'.
Double crossing him is gonna cost them.
Prince Paul and them Daddy-O 'Talkin All That Jazz'
Come up short like John Stockton.
Its on! What's poppin'?! like butter flavored toppin'.
Concocting up in the laboratory that I'm locked in.
Another option's "Throw away the key!"
Its the only way to be. Music is my therapy.
Hopin' the cycle's broken. There's no comparing me.
Apparently I put in work for a "G" (monetarily)

In the land of the Lakers,
Palm trees, Gangstas,
Roscoe's, In-n-Out,
Staples Center. We about
riding, surviving, providing the mix,
for everybody in the city trying to get a "fix".
(repeat)
Track Name: Here We Go Again
(Here we go again.
Every now and then
gotta get it in...)

Each and every single individual in the party
come and get it cuz I only got a minute. Then I gotta go.
Everybody wanna know coming to the show,
"How he gonna flow? Is he gonna blowup the spot.
Make 'em like a shot.
Not for Big Pappa, rather my biological father.
Man I gotta move farther.
I got a new "father" (in-law)
A Doc. Shot caller, big baller.
Hip-Hop stigmata, West possessed.
Emcees get ripped. I spit harder.
You would've thought I had come out
waiving around a big revolver
loaded with "issue resolvers".
They finna miss you at the office.
Here's a tissue regardless.
I'm delivering hits to the largest one of them all.
Its remarkable. Now I'm "marketable".
Too many schemes, not enough dreams.
Not enough families, not enough teams...
what I call "the important things".
I can spot an opportunity approaching,
snakes in the grass, rats AND the roaches.
Not Splinter nor the Tunnel Rats neither.
The procedure's amnesia.
That's if "One time" approaches.
If too late, at a point, it's hopeless.
Then just wish for the best.
Yea that's what they say I guess...

But I'm wondering if I'm making sense...
Or maybe I'm only dreaming...
like there's no consequence.
I know things aint what they seem (No).
If they wondering how come I'm so fly
I reply "The creator of the sunrise".
If you wondering how come I stay cool,
I say "I'm blessed and so are YOU"

Man I'm as tough as nails. They still wondering why?
I tell 'em "It's cuz you hammered me down for so much time!
But you can't stop my climb cuz im back on my grind.
I've come a long way, seen people do it the wrong way.
They dream but they never lay it on the line.
Whatcha gonna gain if you never take a chance?
Man go for it! Get up in "the big dance".
What you waitin' on? The clock's BEEN ticking.
Borderline over time man im still kicking.
Oh you still chicken. Where's your faith at?
"Pull the trigger" Take a chance homie make that move!
Really, whatcha gonna do?
If you ever wanna prove you can get up in groove,
better break that cycle of whatEVER be holding you back.
We lost Michael. Im trying to make a "Thriller" of rap.
Worldwide love. "Where my white glove?"
In a red zipper jacket throwing up a "dub"
In a remote pub, getting more pub (that's more love
on the mic device) I might get nice.
Push but don't shove or I'm gonna blow up.
You know what? So what?
So many people thinkin' that I'm trippin'
cuz I wanna be gettin' some more bucks.
But being broke sucks, so shucks.
'So Ruff, So Tuff' "out here baby"
Who's behind the wheel, driving me crazy?
I don't know. But thank God Jesus saved me!
Uh oh now im knowing that they hate me.
Hopefully we can all get home safely...

But I'm wondering if I'm making sense...
Or maybe I'm only dreaming...
like there's no consequence.
I know things aint what they seem (No).
If they wondering how come I'm so fly
I reply "The creator of the sunrise".
If you wondering how come I stay cool,
I say "I'm blessed and so are YOU"
Track Name: Fly
I feel so good I might fly.
Watch them try and tell me "no" that I "can't fly."
I don't even say "why not?" no more. I'm mellow.
Hello if we never met. I'm good but getting better.
Yet, I feel so fly I gotta say it twice like...
And then they're gonna label me.
What? I'm so "______"
Yea fill in the blank whatever you think.
What do I do when they say "No No!"?
I'm like YES YES...and that barely even rhymed.
Fly none the less, I guess I'm just one of a kind.
So fly, stayin cool when its hot. I don't sweat it. Keep it mellow.
Tryin' to get it from the suburbs to the ghetto. Hit it!
You know me. I put the pedal to the metal when I let it...
Fly by the seat of my pants.
Granted a second chance.
Despite my circumstance, I advance.
They just love to tell me "no no".
Guess they don't understand.
I've seen it all like some sort of Gadfly on the wall.
Off will I fall? "No" I'm so "fly".
I say I love LA twice but not like Carmelo,
rather my city between gaudy and gritty.
And this is what it made me even if it aint pretty.
Even a fly can flyaway if and when its gets frisky.
It's way too risky when they get "shifty".
How you think it feels? Cuz I know.
No they just don't get me...well at least they aint "got me".
See Raphi's not some bargain carbon copy.
Not me. I'm making nosie like a Ducati.
Want me mellow? I can't tho. I'm ready. Set? Lets go!
Even if my music drops out, I'll hop out and rock out
'til its knocked out the park. Playing my part.
Making a mark. State of the art.
And haters? I'm breaking their heart.
I hear 'em. They're like "NO NO!" every time I reach a goal.
That's outta control. But to each his own.
Leave well enough alone. I aint gon' throw a stone.
Flying off the handle aint gon' make it any better?
I mellow out. Get it together. Become a trendsetter.
A doe go getter, whatever the weather.
Feather fly, I'm on cloud 9. "Look up in the sky!"
Maybe im outta my mind. I'm tryin' to find my little piece of the pie.
I need another mountain to climb.
Others asking me why do I think I can fly.
I'm feeling so good, gravity doesn't apply.
NOTHING's gonna keep me down.
Tweaking my sound. Been found in "the underground"
Now upward bound. I'm coming to town.
Thunder will sound. I strike lightning.
Might be frightening, I'm just enlightening.
Guess I'm tryin' to bring a couple "oohs" & "ahhs" to the cause.
Then pause for the applause...

Cuz I feel so good I might fly.
Watch them try and tell me "no" that I "can't fly".
I don't even say "why not?" no more.
I'm mellow. Hello if we never met.
I'm good but gettin' better.
Yet, I feel so fly I gotta say it twice like...
And then they gonna label me. What? I'm so "______"
Yea fill in the blank. Whatever you think.
What do I do when they say "no no"?
I'm like "yes yes!"
Track Name: Rude Awakening (feat. Abstract Rude)
(SW)
"Dude Shame's rude!", that's what some may say
but worthy of a mic in an abstract way. Hey.
It started on a Thursday at a health food cafe.
Pigeon Juan took me to where bomb MCs would play.
CA all day. Had to learn the hard but homie I was loving it.
I'm better now because of it.
Cuz if you didn't come widdit you'd get booed off
like my 1st 5 weeks. Came too soft.
But the OG's told me "Come back next week." So I did.
1st time my rhyme blew up the spot it felt so fresh for the kid.
I was barely a teen. The beginning of dream
in the "L.A. underground Hip-Hop scene."
Fellowship dropped. I became a fiend!
Nobody had so many styles so clean. OMG!
O.M.D. but that's not how most saw me.
More like even a LIGHTER Shade of Brown like Faymous or Awol.
It was F.O.I.'s, bean pies, bow-ties and The Final Call.
So dealt with some extra tension.
Target of aggression in some mic sessions.
All good, I understood and did what I could.
I took my lumps while CV beats would bump out someone's trunk.
I aint a punk. So I earned my props, learned my chops
at Leimert Park. School of hard knocks. Now I'm a vet.
Bet I still got 'Underground Fossils' on cassette. Check.
Yet, never was asked to get down on no projects.
But better late than never on a song together
I remember when the two of us met...

(Ab Rude)
He had a radio. I met him on Venice and 18th street.
He was playing those oldies like Jackson 5,
James Brown at Apollo Live.
Brown with a light shade, down since the 9th grade.
Him, class of '96. I rep for 9 tray.
"Raphi play my tape please in your boombox.
You should come to the Goodlife when school stops."
Next thing you know, he's hooked up with Brainwash.
Twice Born, Pigeon & Raphi teamed up?
Dang I'm yelling "Hip-Hop Hooray!"
down wit "OPP" and Ahmad sang "Back in the Day"
When I was young I'm not a kid anymore.
You blew up with that "Warriors come out to play..."
I still remember that verse and how much u had to rehearse.
And when you forget, you freestyle out of that shh like
"Yeah show 'em how you can spit and dare
any crew to come to get some.
Room full of Muslims, we were the Christians.
Still coexisting. Go Pigeon!
Out here on Crenshaw and Exposition bangin'
Cut Chemist, Hymnal, Shames & Rude were your LACES boys.
Of course we can hang with your favorite crews
homie so make some noise.
What a Hip-Hop life then we hit Leimert as we rep L.A.-hay
All the kids got hype when we did that 1st year anniversary
and we're here to stay. Get a rude awakening cuz we have no shame.

Dude shame Rude. That's what some may say
but Rude's worthy of a mic in an abstract way - hey.
It started on a thursday at a health food cafe.
Big Al took me to where the freestyle mcs played.
Deep wild MCs slayed. Laid down. Many aint came 'round
since they fade. Green mile, thats what they walk down.
Guess they won't talk now (That's L.A.)
South Central (That's L.A.) K-town (L.A.)
San Gabriel (East  L.A.) Downtown (That's L.A.)
Westside (West L.A.) Eastside (That's L.A.)

Wonder what happened to Menace Clan
I'm searching for dangerous women
and Gangsta Lunatic, Urban Prop, Kinky Red.
I'm glad Born Allah is back with the Tabernacle.
Searching for Satchel Pages. Why did Jurassic break up?
Superb SK and Figures of Speech with Jyant & Ava.
Eve's a goddess, made a movie about us. Never forgot us.
Get the new product cuz we move a lot of it.
Whoever doubted this clique is out of his mind,
off of his wits and not gon' get signed to even a indy.
Rest in peace the homie Bimby was hella dope.
Bigga B, Yusef Afloat where did you go?

(SW)
Looking off into the distance you watching us
raising up under the ash and the rubble.
They should've know that we were never in trouble
no matter which way the cookie crumbles.
Everybody stumble up in the jungle.
Watching them fumble. So I stay humble.
Don't trip tho cuz we down for "the rumble".
Mama was a "Shark" So it's in my heart.
Little bit of art, trying to get a spark.
When I started to play my part.
I built my ark and I made my mark.
Maybe paved the the way for some kids in the park.
I don't know. I don't care. But I DO.
See we don't want them to grow up to be you.
Ab Rude told me "We keep it true".
That's how I grew. Right then I krew.
I gotta see it thru to the mountain top.
"Yes yes y'all and it don't stop"
Met LPG in 1993 at Hex's OG Hip-Hop Shop.
Track Name: International
Yeah people the illEagle did it again!
I put the pen to a paper now we making it blend.
What we creating is separating the men from the boys
who playin' with toys and afraid of the deep end.
I leap in, toss caution to the wind.
Often causin' a splash, either sink or swim.
Then creep in to the dreams of those who sleepin'.
Shake them up to wake them up. You gotta peep him!
Never overseasoned. Just overseas in 
some distant land. They coming to greet him
and givin' him "the royal treatment" just from what he speakin'.
Not even preachin' but still he reachin'
out for the stars. Comin' down with a cloud.
After my set I'll prolly be around in the crowd.
Interacting with people is where I gotta be
cuz if they show me love I give it back properly

Yea I'm coming to a city near you.
So bring a friend. Better yet, bring two.
Hopefully y'all can all swing through.
Just make some noise
when I say "I can't hear you!"
Cuz I'm coming to a city near you.
So bring a friend. Better yet, bring two.
Hopefully y'all can all swing through.
Just make some noise
when I say "I can't hear you!"

International if I ain't embraced in the states.
I couldn't hate but neither could I wait.
I knew my audience was "somewhere out there."
That's Fievel-type survival with savoir-faire.
I say a little prayer cuz its needed.
Even when I lose I refuse to be defeated.
Keep improvin' and keep it movin'. Beat it!
Can't stop, won't stop 'til the job's completed.
I go where I'm needed. Do whatever I can
whether its lending a hand or taking a stand.
A one man wolf-pack "making the band."
Cali Quake tastemaker forsaking the bland.
Against the grain. I am what I am dude
I'm knowin' what I can't, I'll show 'em what I CAN do.
Heavyset yet ready. Yep, he already ran through
another stage. Next page, brand new.

Yea I'm coming to a city near you.
So bring a friend. Better yet, bring two.
Hopefully y'all can all swing through.
Just make some noise
when I say "I can't hear you!"
Cuz I'm coming to a city near you.
So bring a friend. Better yet, bring two.
Hopefully y'all can all swing through.
Just make some noise
when I say "I can't hear you!"

Come spit with me cuz come can't stand to sit with me.
Transport or passport. Who wanna trip with me?
I'm rippin' the beat, kickin' the snare,
jackin' its hat, tramplin' the sample & then crack it with a bat.
Red dots on the spots I've been like paint splattered on a map.
When you havin' me back?
Just tell me the when, the where, the how...
The present's a gift, the time is now...
That's by design. I'm at my prime.
But then again, you'll find I only get better with time.
Raisin' the bar and stayin' above the line.
Its the only thing I'm really good at. I love to rhyme.
Keep on writing songs 'til my voice is gone.
Then I'll make more beats so my sound lives on.
All my REAL heads know where to go --the front row.
Wanna know why? Then come to my next show.

Yea I'm coming to a city near you.
So bring a friend. Better yet, bring two.
Hopefully y'all can all swing through.
Just make some noise
when I say "I can't hear you!"
Cuz I'm coming to a city near you.
So bring a friend. Better yet, bring two.
Hopefully y'all can all swing through.
Just make some noise
when I say "I can't hear you!"
Track Name: Laced Up Tight
Each and every time I get near a groove,
I wanna jump inside to steer and hear it move.
I'm clear. I'm cool. I'm calm.
I'm here to prove that I'm on
Another level of incredible even beyond.
I'm meaning no harm.
More like, I'm spinning my yarn.
telling my tall tales until y'all singing along.
Even tho I know it could've been a slower song.
Forgive me. Simply, my trigger's itchy.
But come on! You gotta keep running just to get me.
Come and uplift me? Whatever man!
I'm knowing that they really wanna hit me as hard as a hippy.
That's silly. They're hard as a hippy...really.
Y'all don't feel me. So follow me, better for both.
They can't kill me. Flyer than first class if the ticket really says coach. You a liar. Don't approach.
In the muck and the mire, servant turns sire.
'Catch a Fire' Match for hire.
Liar thinkin' them higher than the Messiah.
I admire those plain clothes more "lame, cliche' attire.
Shames Worthy. Now y'all can say you've heard of me.
I spit some type of syllable surgery.
Surgically in the pocket perfectly.
So coming out the pocket even be irking me.
Work with me man. I brought "the work" with me.
Got the hood leanin' like I brought the real "purp" with me.
Aww that line's for the homies on the turf with me.
With words I be a Hybrid-Hannibal-Hurcules on work release.
I work with thieves making it worse for me.
I'm alert. I should twirp, then smirk like a jerk and leave.
Hit the spot, grab the mic.
Get berserk with me!

Come one come all
Y'all don't wanna miss this one.
We gon' get down. You're too uptight.
If you gon' step into a groove like this one
make sure your kicks are laced up tight.
Get loose and have a good time with this one.
We gon' get down. You're too uptight.
If you gon' step into a groove like this one
make sure your kicks are laced up tight
Track Name: Life is like a Sport
Kill all that Crystal,
still pass like Chris Paul.
My 16s go "POW" like Gasol.
8s & 24s like Kobe homie.
Naw, they they can't hold ME y'all.
I run game in L.A. like I'm Mitch Kupchak.
"Aw that hits below the belt!"
Yup quick "cup check". What?
Its no sweat. Better yet, this how I'm flippin' it.
Its Shame Beckham in L.A. but I'm STILL kickin' it.
Spittin' it, as if I were dippin' with the dugout.
My goal is to stop yours.
Point is, you shut out.
Pull a gun out?
Naw, they saw Pistol Pete just run out.
They pull the Heat, you'll see "the Flash" come out.
D Wade in the water.
They made living harder.
Parade to the slaughter
for "the almighty dollar."
Yup. They said that it's all about the bread.
Well I USED to make the bucks just like Michael Redd.
"Oh that's cold on so many levels!" I know.
Its all good tho.
He went for the medal and got "the Gold".
And the whole entire globe was watchin'.
I'll play Lebron. Shames saying "Losing aint an option"
and maintain the same thang.
Let's get it poppin'.
Flows wetter than Ray Allen's shot when its gets to droppin'.
But on mine, you know its LAkers ALL DAY!
Another ring's on the way.
I'll see you at the parade...

Last round, 4th quarter, 9th inning
If you wanna win it, GO GET IT!
Don't be timid. Push it to the limit.
Don't sell yourself short.
Life is like a sport.
Leave it all on the court.

Somebody get a letter to the editor.
I'm RAPH-Federer,
feels like I'm already better than my competitor.
Naw, y'all should call me RAPH Nadal.
Either way I give "love" but I cause racket y'all.
Make a splash without the ball in a basket, naw.
And If I DO hit the J, its to laugh at y'all.
What I DON'T do under pressure? Crack or fall.
A "Master" of THIS trade, I'm still a "Jack of all..."
I don't scrap, I brawl.
This the fight of my life!
They thinking that I went "soft" since I met my wife.
Naw, I'm hungrier than ever. Still starving.
Just posters & equipment in my 1-room apartment.
So I go hard with them hours that I put in to my music.
Its more than just amusement.
Try not to confuse it.
But then again, who am I fooling?
Cuz I know THAT's the reason
most of y'all are even listening to him.

Last round, 4th quarter, 9th inning.
If you wanna win it, GO GET IT!
Don't be timid. Push it to the limit.
Don't sell yourself short.
Life is like a sport.
Leave it all on the court.
(repeat)

There's wolves in the Woods but I'm feeling like a Tiger.
The fair way to aim for green.
I need a driver.
Got "Open" in my black pants & red shirt.
My will to win's outSTANDing, even with my leg hurt.
Green jacket him.
Mics, I've Mastered them.
A different breed who's focus is a maximum,
especially in the big moments without asking him.
I fight like Manny Pac. Who wanna scrap with him?
Step in the ring but better be ready to rumble.
Its a jungle out there.
Beware. Don't crumble.
If you can touch it, CLUTCH IT! Can't fumble.
Play your game confident but remain humble.
Cuz the last "star" flossing at the cash bar
thought he was "Nascar"
but really just going in circles in a fast car.
Cuz you might even have a name but you can't Earnhardt.
Track Name: Audible Imagery
What if I had a chance?
Wait, what if it wasn't too late?
I tried to get a grip, but couldn't catch a break.
See I'm a loyal dude. It gets misconstrued
and now I'm trying to prove to myself I didn't lose.
The outcome I didn't choose.
How come I didn't move?
Did I just follow suit?
Recite a hollow truth?
New motto: "Get the bread!"
That's what the hustle said.
My homies pushing weight
like a bunch of muscle-heads.
Their pocket's getting fed
and I'm a starving artist.
The game is heartless.
But I brawl regardless.
Aint stoppin' til I'm clockin' it in all the markets.
The flow's so h2o, go and call it Sparkletts
or he be Fiji. We be needy.
She be greedy. Never see me on TV.
But "c'est la vie. oui."
Such is life. yea.
The devil don't fight fair.

Awake in this nightmare.
Inhale the night air.
You see me right there?
I bet you could picture me through audible imagery.
I paint it so vividly through my creativity
and take what they're giving me.
But such is life.
Yeah, the devil don't fight fair.
Awake in this nightmare.
Inhale the night air.
You see me right there?
I bet you could picture me through audible imagery.
I paint it so vividly and and take what they're giving me.

Shame's something like a runaway-train.
I get on the track and Bolt like Usain.
Cross the line but stay in my lane
just pounding my chest like "Who cares what you claim!?"
Break records worldwide, running the game.
The wordplay is insane still I entertain.
Thinking even about the weakest link in the food-chain.
Augusta knows I'm all about the capitol Maine.
Now you're saying "no he didn't"
You're right. I gotta get it. Who am I kidding?
I used to breakdance. Now I got broke finance.
"Rap fiend" chasing my dream. Last chance!
But can't sell my soul. Maybe I'm just getting old.
Too much to say in a 10 second ringtone.
So I Tell 'em I'm a Soulja Boy.
"Turn My Swag On" and then I bring it home.

I'm awake in this nightmare.
Inhale the night air.
You see me right there?
I bet you could picture me through audible imagery.
I paint it so vividly through my creativity
and take what they're giving me.
But such is life.
Yeah, the devil don't fight fair.
Awake in this nightmare
Inhale the night air.
You see me right there?
I bet you could picture me
through audible imagery.
I take what they're giving me.

I refuse to lose. That's old news.
"Can't please eybody ALL the time" is SO true.
Gotta pay your own dues.
No one can do it for the whole crew.
With no buzz, you're O'Doul's.
That just aint a "good look" like Crocs or Uggs.
Just cuz you on the block don't make you thugs
or listening to some Pac while throwing up dubs.
REAL ones are slangin' drugs and dumpin' slugs.
Cookin' it up, but they aint a chef. (nope)
Up in the cupboard, look but aint nothing left. (they broke)
The refrigerator's grimy. The place is a mess.
That's why you find them grindin' and they do it to death
in the danger zone with no bulletproof vest.
That's why some gang-Bangladesh.
If you never had to, count yourself as blessed.
The rest, under stress "underdressed", stuff getting repossessed.

Awake in this nightmare.
Inhale the night air.
You see them right there?
Its audible imagery.
I paint it so vividly through my creativity.
But "c'est la vie. oui."
Such is life. yea.
The devil don't fight fair.
Awake in this nightmare.
Inhale the night air.
You see them right there?
Its audible imagery through my creativity.
I paint it so vividly...
I paint it so vividly...
Track Name: Lighten Up
Full circle, like making over Oprah back to "The Color Purple"
It just won't happen like turtles jumping hurdles.
Words get hurtful if the soil aint fertile.
It won't grow with no h2O
like no doe then there's no show.
But I'm an MC. I still might kick a flow.
But no more than a verse of freestyle unrehearsed.
Its a blessing and curse, like a free ride home...but in a hurst.
On second thought, yea I'm guessing that's worse
Even more than a gulp of sand to quench your thirst.
I got some things up in the works.
I plant my seeds but I only grow weary.
Unfocused. Lose sight of the vision and used to see it so clearly.
Holler if you hear me, yours sincerely.
Haters steer clear. Don't even get near me.
Gimmie 50 feet while I bust on the gritty beat.
You're a customer, no reciept.
No surrender and no retreat.
I remember when no belief in me was to be found
when I would look around for help. I felt I delt.
I knelt down for guidence
and got up and tightened my belt like Orion's.
Guess I was deciding on violence.
My mind is like a riot of silence.
Opened up my eyes and they "Blinded me with Science"
Listen, I'm gon' do like Griffin, stand in Defiance.
Word is Bond I got "juice" like the dude who used be from the Giants.
So I await your compliance.

They tell me that I need to lighten up.
I be taking my music thing way too serious.
But that's the reason why y'all lining up.
Cuz you know that I'm dope as soon as you hear me bust.
(repeat)

Who wanna catch it quick?
I spit infinite. Intricate.
Intertwine rhyme in and out the cut.
So intimate. Intimidate those who aint feelin' it.
Steeling it like your shows
shows I'm still killin' it. Flatlines...
kinda bring them to life when my ink sink.
I'm a page paramedic.
I let it medicate your meditation.
Stay away from run of the mill type "Skillz"
I live in "Haterville". Man forget a record deal!
If you aint sitting on mil, living up in them hills
there's really no point like a circle shaped dollar bill.
Plus, my catalog's getting SICK,
as if its under the weather.
So whenever I'm under pressure.
Man I'm like "Whatever"
Bet ya bottom dollar.
Never break a sweat. I'd rather break a collarbone.
You're like "What is it he's on?"
I'm sinister. Visit the "visitors" home.
So what chu wanna do?
Naw, what chu gonna do?
You're slippin. Trippin' for real man!
What chu ON dude?!
You shoulda "Just Say No"
playdough-salty-softy. Back up off me.
Coming at me faulty's costly.

They tell me that I need to lighten up.
I be taking my music thing way too serious.
But that's the reason why y'all lining up.
Cuz you know that I'm dope as soon as you hear me bust.
(repeat)
Track Name: Still Around (feat. Jurny Big)
(SW)
Get your children and put 'em to bed.
I'm a bull in a china shop and I see red.
It's about to hit the fan. 
Yep, you should split like Jean Claude Van Damme.
Rock the Planet like Afrika Bam.
Pole to pole's my wingspan.
So bicoastal feels local man.
The Afghanistan of grammar's who I am.
But "avoid disaster" is really my master plan.
I can force the issue but NOT my master's hand.
Thy will be done.
Make it work like MINI coopers to computers or Tim Gunn.
That's the way my project's run.
This aint a catwalk. It's where the big dogs stomp.
I'm a product of circumstance and pomp.
I get to walk the stage but no cap and gown,
just my rap and sound. 
Grab a mic & pitch a fit like I just took the mound.
Then the Earthworm's above ground.

(Jurny Big)
I'm a "killa" on it.
Was finna stick around 'til I could put a million on it.
But didn't happen exactly how I planned.
So I stick to doing cameos for my main man.
Still a Cameo will make you throw ya "Word Up!"
and place you "in the hole" like you was batting 3rd up.
Still I promise Philharmonic isn't on his last leg.
Simply had to wear with all the "get up out the fast lane."
I'm a rap imperial wizard. Scratch the serial
and bury y'all materialistic rhymers.
Not your regular rhyme Doctor
got ya by just a couple of notches above your prime.
No wonder I'm disliked by the masses
cuz I'm hap-hazardous. "Mic Masters"
Battle us? Naw Bruh.
Be serious. We clearly head of the heap.
Leaps and bounds on a Shames Worthy beat.

(SW)
No surrender, no retreat.
Chillin' in the "hot seat"
Like the Lakers in the kitchen,
YES we can take the Heat.
Then we take it to the street
on our way to 3-peat.
Fast-breakin' on the beat.
We two of the elite.
Peep our feet crack the concrete.
Cali Quake, my fault.
Act like they all street?
Might get hit up tomorrow.
I wanna ball for my family. I want it all.
I don't need to be a star. You recall.

(Jurny Big)
I remember meeting Raphi at the age of 16.
Kid was painting pictures on the verge of Sistine.
Now he on some swervin' with the drive of "Christine"
and running over jokers 'til he get him his ring.

(Shames Worthy)
So Fresh and So Clean. We coaching your team.
You benched hoping that we let you on the scene.
I kept a smokescreen and swept the whole thing.
I slept only to dream. Show me the green.
Homie's a machine!

(Jurny Big)
Its silly y'all question whether we still down,
cuz 'til we kill a milli we gon' be around.
There's way too many talkin' how they "run this town"
and I'm gon' get to dumpin' on 'em. How that sound?

(Shames Worthy)
Like a plan, we run it.
I'm gon' take it like a man,
whatever punishment come from it.
I aint gonna run from it. Bring it on, come widdit.
Some critics aint gon' get it. I admit it.
We did it deliberate for the fun it. Hit it!

(both)
We still around. Don't worry.
No wonder why some of these kids still sound so "skury"
Now go scurry out tho. Hurry!
The sound gon' bury y'all.
NOW go worry. (Ring the Alarm)
(repeat)
Track Name: Ride On!
I was a "USA High/City Guys/Saved By the Bell."
I used to play the background, you probably couldn't tell.
But if you knew me well I did that to get my mail. (my money)
Cuz I was only smart enough to not end up in jail.
"Hang Time/Malcolm & Eddie/In the House" too.
That's how I kept my shoe game up in '92.
I keep 'em looking brand new. I just KNEW I was cool...
Too bad all my dope kicks I outgrew.
From the Huarache's to the all white Penny's,
Air Max and the Jordan's had plenty.
But time rolled on man. Yup, they all gone.
Hindsight 20/20. Nowadays I'm overdrawn.
"young buck to Vet. No gold, just respect..."
I try and recollect just so I could Re-"Connect"
You gotta take it all in stride
and if you can't, then dip. <-No formaldehyde.
Just ride. Right?

In a car, on a skateboard or bike,
motorcycle, quad, jet-ski, whatever you like.
I'm saying, even a bus or train if it keeps you sane.
I know it's hard to maintain cuz I aint got it like Diddy nor 50.
Aww what a pity. I can still cruise the city.
Besides man its just way too pretty to be indoors anyway.
Get out, enjoy the day.
Breathe the fresh air, feel the sunlight.
More so the latter cuz the first, well not quite.
But please, you still got the beautiful breeze
blowing through the leaves of the trees.
I love days like these when its seems
even the temperature's whatever's your perfect degrees.
Its all good guaranteed.
Just watch your speed when you're coasting
to keep your bones and pockets from getting broken
when you ride.

I gotta "Keep on Trucking"
even if it seems like I don't get back nothing
for everything I put in. All the hard work
and all the times I got burnt, man it still hurts.
But it made me who I am so I'm trying to let it go.
Sow seeds? Better know you gotta let 'em grow.
It all takes time. I'm learning that now.
But I stand my ground and never back down.
You can't get stuck in a rut either.
Go ahead and get up.
Who wants to be an underachiever?
Best believe you need to make progress.
Yes, even if it means getting stuff off your chest.
Keep it moving, dippin' or street cruising.
If you got homies following you, don't lose them.
Trying to catch up is when it gets dangerous.
But you can find me in the streets of Los Angeles.

Just a quick ride, get inside.
Dip-dip-dive. Slip-n-slide
No matter what side you reside.
We all just trying to survive.
Drive.
Just a quick ride, get inside.
Dip-dip-dive. Slip-n-slide.
No matter what side you reside.
We all just trying to survive.
Its good times.
Track Name: I Love the Energy
Things are looking better now. I can't complain.
Big Shame kicked cigarettes. I'm off the chain.
But the nicotine fiend turned to caffeine.
A monster with a Monster in the bloodstream.
On the mic I mean. It wasn't like no "roid rage"
more like, "Gimme the mic & I'm gon' tear down this stage!"
As long as I pound one right before & SNAP!
I'm good to go for the show. Man, what's wrong with that?!
Well then it became an everyday thang
A can was like Raphi's cup of coffee in the morning. Dang!
But to make people shut up,
just put it in a coffee cup and they'll lay in the cut.
Although it didn't sit well in my gut regardless.
But I needed energy and it kicked the hardest.
And I'm a workaholic. That's what I prefer to call it.
Cats were actin' like my actions were diabolic.
What can I say? I love the energy.

Whatever it takes to get myself movin' in the morning
when I'm yawning. No pumpin' the brakes...
I love the energy!
4 shot espresso. For me? Heck no!
But that's some folks' petrol singing...
"I love the energy"
It feels great to be awake by the time you get to work
and I prefer to stay alert.
I love the energy.
I didn't sleep, so I'm poppin' vitamin B.
You know me.
I love the energy

Enough of that seriousness.
I just had to get that off my chest I guess.
Let's keep it movin'.
I'm only rendezvousing to be proving to you and crew
that I'm sick with the lyrics I'm spewing.
Still room for improvement
to get that head and neck movement.
But if you groove, and you dope in the circle, then prove it!
Get it! Step Up! Skip to it. Hop out, rip thru it!
WhatEVER it is, 100% if you do it!
Look at me. I'm on this mic giving you all that I got.
As you can see I'm a little bit heavy. So I always feel hot.
But even if I'm up here and I "gas out"
I'll rap 'til I pass-out!
You'll be saying,
"He was killing it 'til the last millisecond when he blacked out.
They carried him off and he even came BACK out!
I'm telling you man it was crazy. Borderline amazing.
Now THAT'S a live show fa sho.
And you know I love the energy."

When I'm on the mic,
I'm like "you prolly paid to get in.
So I SHOULD be tight right?"
I love the energy.
When I'm on stage, its similar to an animal enraged let out of a cage.
I love the energy.
A little less "Hollywood"
Just an emcee trying to get the mic and spit good.
I love the energy.
Rappin' tryin' to get it crackin'.
Do what you gotta do to get right and let's make it happen.

All I wanna know is "Where my live people at!?"
Cuz I'm up here workin'. But I need to get it back,
the energy when I rap from the crowd.
Make it feel packed even if it aint loud.
We gon' make it crack.
I'm tryin' to get it jumpin' somethin' like Jehoshaphat.
Everybody hand clap or at least a finger snap.
Better yet, if you're worried about ya "rep"
gangstas and grown-ups can 2-step.
But if you don't wanna move
like you too cool for school
why'd you even come out?
Me? I'm tryin' to "dumb-out" not take the fun out.
So get'cha hands up high!
Don't even ask why.
Go and grab the sky, or at least the ceilin'.
Don't fight the feelin'. We in the buildin'. Its musical healin'
even if its just for a minute when you're in it.
Limitless, unless you're timid.
Like I said in the beginning
I love the energy.

But I need to get it back when I'm up here spittin' a rap.
I don't wanna collapse. Where you at!?
I love the energy.
I'm tryin' to find some kind of sign
you're feeling the rhyme, having a good time.
I love the energy.
Yea its like a partnership,
when I start to spit & embark on a hit, with a spark, get lit.
I love the energy of the real hip hop.
I take it up a notch as you can see hopefully.
You know me.

I love the energy (4x)
Track Name: Blessings (Rain Down)
Baraph Flowbama..its time for change,
to a state of Nirvana. Shames Cobain.
Blow your mind with more lines than Soul Train.
Spit a bit more John McClane than John McCain.
My campaign's to maintain a standard of excellence.
So respect is commanded
cuz I'm a man. I supply and demand it
But handback compliments if they're backhanded.
'Tunnel Vision' expanded. I rap candid. They can't stand it.
The eagle has landed. Feel outstanding!
On a 'Highway to Heaven' like Michael Landon.
Still im dippin' through the traffic.
No need to mask it.
It can get drastic.
But still I feel fantastic
'til I hit the casket. That's it!

Cuz the blessings just rain down.
I can remain the same clown.
That's why I can't stay down
and the reason I'm gon' stay around.
(Repeat)

..like the equator. Way major.
Feeling like a Laker. (So many haters)
In this life, though they might try and shake ya,
NEVER let 'em break ya.
I still believe in he who won't forsake ya.
Made a trailblazer.
Hope I've grown into more than just a title taker.
Create a new lane. Just do your thang,
even if you aint found your passion,
Fan the flame and take action for maximum capitol gain.
Its hard to maintain faith with financial strain.
Notice the different approaches but you gotta stay focused.
If not, you're hopeless.
Yes, I know this one firsthand.
NOTHING's turned out how I planned.
The same year I got canned, I also traveled to the Holyland
Now I understand. I'm just a man.
I'm gon' do the best I can.

Cuz the blessings just rain down.
I can remain the same clown.
That's why I can't stay down
and the reason I'm gon' stay around.
(Repeat)

Nope, I aint going nowhere Jack.
I got my second wind and my swagger back
once I realized there many blessings in front of my eyes.
All the ones in disguise, it all happens for a reason.
And the seasons won't always be freezing.
Even fools who teased him help me find freedom.
Cuz it was then I understood I didn't need them.
Are you a help or a hindrance?
I need less bondage, more deliverance.
Yes I'm honored to have been given this
new lease on life. Homie I'm livin' it!
I'm giving it 100% or at least my best shot.
But lets not get caught in the pep talk.
I'm like I'm gon' strike while the iron's hot.
No more life in the mush-pot.
I thank God without much thought...

Cuz the blessings just rain down.
I can remain the same clown.
That's why I can't stay down
and the reason I'm gon' stay around.
(Repeat)