Gang Starr

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
I'm like a sniper, rhymes'll strike ya when I'm rockin
Mad chicks be jockin' when the G Starr's talking
And that's because my word is bond
I get much fan mail and I always respond
So tell your hon to write me too
Make sure she puts attention Mr. Guru
Brothers know the flow is unique
I got 100 wild styles in my black valise
MC's wanna be me so they keep askin
For me to teach 'em methods both slow and fast
And others wanna act as if they're better
But they only got one style which ain't all that clever
I'm cooler than wind, harder than cold steel
I get the ladies with more than just sex appeal
A mystic psychic scanning all your thoughts
I'll touch your soul and make your brain feel caught
When my rapture traps ya and makes you mine
You'll submit to the gift and to the lyrical lines
So suckers realize that the size is too large
When I come through I'm pullin' whole crews cards
I be wreckin' correct and on the gangster tip
MC's who front: I'm gonna bust your shit

[Hook: Dj Premier]
Bust your shit
Ok, party people in the house...
[Verse 2]
I wonder do you love it enough
I'm steppin' rugged and tough, never to front or to bluff
I got the fresh cut baldy, the brothers call me
Guru the man yes with all the
J-A-Z-Z-Y type essence, street type lessons manifesting
The one who make the fly ladies feel pleasant
Never forgettin' that to myself I'm true
Do what you want to but watch yourself though "duke"
I don't wanna hear all of that loud mouthing
Try to pull yours out when nothing comes out
Then you'll see why you can't compete with me
The notorious Guru of the Gang you see
Starr stands for power like I said before
I'm like the doctors cure slicker than Roger Moore
I slide up to a crab MC like this
Tap 'em in the head with my mic like this
I'll be revealing that you're weak to the world if you wish
And I insist that if you persist
Then you get creamed, cuz I'ma get real steamed
So don't you try to flex and try to look all mean
Heyo check it that's dead that's it
'Cause all you phony ass rappers I'ma bust your shit

[Hook: Dj Premier]
Bust your shit
[Verse 3]
Now when you see me on the set you know I may unleash
A lyric like a mad dog barking through the speaker
Step off unless you wanna get torn up
Your raps worn out burned out fucked up
You lucked up or maybe you lucked out
'Cause at the battle last time you snuck out
But now I'm rolling over you full blast
I'm here to let you know no longer will the bull last
MC's telling lies and poppin' all those myths
Keep on fakin' moves and I'ma...

If you're a fan of both music and gaming, you may be familiar with the song "B.Y.S." by Gang Starr. This iconic track was featured in the popular 2004 video game Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, where it could be heard on the fictional radio station Playback FM. But there's so much more to this song than its virtual gaming fame.

About B.Y.S.

Released in 1992, "B.Y.S." stands for "Bust Your S**t" and is a prime example of Gang Starr's signature East Coast hip-hop sound. The duo, consisting of the late MC Guru (real name Keith Elam) and DJ Premier (real name Christopher Martin), established themselves as one of the most influential acts in the genre during the '90s.

B.Y.S. is a hard-hitting track that showcases Gang Starr's distinct style. With its catchy beats, aggressive lyrics, and gritty production, it's no wonder the song has stood the test of time. From the moment the track starts, you're immediately captivated by its energetic rhythm and Guru's commanding delivery.

Guru's lyrics, as always, offer profound insights into societal issues and personal introspection. With his smooth yet authoritative flow, he delivers impactful rhymes that tackle topics ranging from self-confidence and perseverance to the struggles of life in the inner city. Guru's unique ability to blend social commentary with personal experiences is what sets Gang Starr apart from their contemporaries.

B.Y.S. is a prime example of Gang Starr's ability to create compelling narratives through their music. The song tells a story of a man determined to overcome the obstacles thrown his way. It serves as both an anthem of empowerment and a call to action for listeners to overcome adversity and strive for greatness.

The production on B.Y.S. is the work of DJ Premier, known for his signature sample-based beats and intricate scratching. Premier's genius lies in his ability to blend classic jazz and soul samples with hard-hitting drum patterns, creating a seamless fusion of old-school and contemporary hip-hop. His production on B.Y.S. provides the perfect backdrop for Guru's lyrical prowess and elevates the song to another level.

What makes B.Y.S. truly special is its impact on the world of gaming. The inclusion of the track in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas exposed a whole new generation of gamers to Gang Starr's music. The game's fictional radio station, Playback FM, became a beloved feature among players, and the inclusion of B.Y.S. only added to its appeal.

The song's placement within the game's soundtrack also highlights the influence of hip-hop on popular culture. By featuring Gang Starr, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas not only provided players with an incredible gaming experience, but it also recognized the importance of hip-hop as a cultural phenomenon.

Even years after its release, B.Y.S. remains a standout track in Gang Starr's discography. Its raw energy, thought-provoking lyrics, and impeccable production continue to resonate with fans old and new. Whether you first heard it in the virtual streets of San Andreas or stumbled upon it while exploring the world of hip-hop, B.Y.S. is a song that demands attention and respect.

• Release Date: May 5, 1992
• Artist: Gang Starr