Mobb Deep's Animal Instinct: A Raw Hip Hop Classic Explores the Darker Side of Street Life
What makes Mobb Deep's music so captivating? The answer lies in their unique style and unparalleled lyricism. One of their most iconic songs, Animal Instinct, is a prime example of their raw talent.
The opening lines of the track immediately grab your attention: Thug life, we still living it / through all the bullshit, we still relevant. These words perfectly capture the essence of Mobb Deep's music - they speak to the struggles and perseverance of those living in difficult circumstances.
As the song progresses, we are taken on a journey through the streets of New York City. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the harsh realities faced by those living in poverty, with lines like Grew up on the crime side, where the New York Times side / stayin' alive was no jive.
What sets Animal Instinct apart from other songs in the genre is its intricate rhyme schemes and wordplay. Mobb Deep's Prodigy and Havoc both deliver flawless verses that showcase their mastery of the craft.
But the song isn't just about flexing their lyrical muscles - it also addresses important social issues. In one particularly poignant line, Prodigy raps, Our brothers locked down, we can't get 'em out / they caged in like animals and treated like trout.
The track's haunting beat, produced by Havoc himself, only adds to its impact. Its slow, ominous melody perfectly complements the dark subject matter and adds an extra layer of intensity to the lyrics.
Animal Instinct is not just a song - it's an experience. Listening to it is like taking a trip through the gritty streets of Queensbridge and seeing the world through the eyes of those who live there.
So why do we keep coming back to this song, even decades after its release? Perhaps it's because its message still resonates with us today. Despite the progress we've made as a society, poverty and inequality still exist, especially in urban areas.
Or maybe it's simply because Animal Instinct is just that good. Its combination of powerful lyrics, haunting beat, and unparalleled talent make it a timeless classic.
Whatever the reason may be, there's no denying the impact that Mobb Deep and Animal Instinct have had on hip-hop culture. Their music continues to inspire and influence listeners all around the world.
If you haven't listened to Animal Instinct yet, do yourself a favor and give it a listen. You won't regret it.
"Mobb Deep Animal Instinct" ~ bbaz
When it comes to classic hip-hop duos, Mobb Deep is undoubtedly one of the most revered. Comprised of Prodigy and Havoc, the group emerged from Queensbridge, New York in the early 90s with a gritty, raw sound that quickly garnered them a devoted following. In 1995, they released their second studio album, The Infamous, which featured arguably their most popular track to date: Shook Ones Pt. II.
Animal Instinct
While Shook Ones Pt. II is undoubtedly a standout track on The Infamous, there are plenty of other gems to discover on the album. One of these lesser-known tracks is Animal Instinct. Released as the second single off the album, Animal Instinct is a haunting, atmospheric track that showcases Mobb Deep's storytelling and lyrical prowess.
The Intro
The song opens with a sampled monologue from the 1983 film Scarface, in which Al Pacino's character delivers the now-iconic line, You need people like me so you can point your f*cking fingers and say, 'That's the bad guy.' This sets the tone for the rest of the track, as Prodigy and Havoc delve into the criminal underworld and the violence that comes with it.
Verse One: Prodigy
Prodigy's verse paints a vivid picture of the streets he grew up on, where killers and criminals are friends and murders happen all the time. He emphasizes the importance of having a cold, unfeeling demeanor in order to survive in this world, saying, Everybody's a snake, so I trust no one / Only way you ever gonna learn is if you get burnt.
Verse Two: Havoc
Havoc's verse is just as bleak as Prodigy's, but he takes a slightly different perspective. He talks about the pressures of trying to make money in the drug game, saying, Got to get it how you live, 'cause you can't starve / So you rob and you steal and take things by force. He also touches on the paranoia that comes with this lifestyle, saying, I gotta watch my back 'cause there's wolves out here / They'll take your life for a small share.
The Chorus
The chorus of Animal Instinct features a haunting vocal sample that repeats the phrase, It's just an animal / It's just an animal / Instinct, animal / It's just an animal. This reinforces the idea that in this world, you need to have a cold, animalistic demeanor in order to survive.
Verse Three: Prodigy
In Prodigy's second verse, he talks about the consequences of getting caught up in this lifestyle. He mentions friends who have been killed or imprisoned, saying, It hurt me but at the same time showed me you gotta play the game right. He also emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself, saying, I ain't never fake, always come with something real / If it ain't about the cash then what's the f*ck's the deal?
Verse Four: Havoc
Havoc's second verse brings the song to a close on a poignant note. He talks about the sacrifices he's made in order to survive, saying, Sometimes I wonder if it's worth it / The price you pay for living in this dog-eat-dog world. He also touches on the toll that this lifestyle can take on one's mental health, saying, I'm trying to keep sane in this crazy life of mine / Sometimes I feel like I'm living in a warzone.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Animal Instinct is a standout track on an already-stellar album. It showcases Mobb Deep's ability to paint vivid pictures with their lyrics and create haunting soundscapes with their production. While the subject matter may be bleak, it's a reminder of the harsh realities faced by those who grow up in poverty and turn to crime in order to survive.
Comparison: Mobb Deep's Animal Instinct
Introduction
Hip-hop has always been a music of storytelling, allowing artists to express their experiences and perspectives through vivid lyrics and tight beats. Few groups have done this more effectively than Mobb Deep, the Queensbridge-based duo of Havoc and Prodigy. Their fifth studio album, Infamy, released in 2001, featured one of the standout tracks of their career: Animal Instinct. This article will explore the song's production, lyrics and themes, and compare it to other notable hip-hop songs that deal with similar subjects.The Production
Animal Instinct features a haunting piano loop that sets an ominous tone for the track. The beat was produced by Havoc himself, who was famous for his gritty, sample-heavy production style. The drums on the track are punchy and prominent, serving as the backbone of the rhythm. There are also several vocal samples peppered throughout the track, including a pitched-down voice that says animal repeatedly. All of these elements combine to create a sparse, menacing soundscape that perfectly complements Prodigy's stark rhymes.The Lyrics
The lyrics to Animal Instinct are some of the most vivid and violent of Mobb Deep's catalog. Prodigy's opening lines set the stage:I'm tryna warn youWe not the same, mortal, stay in your laneYou just a pawn in this game, we warriorsFrom there, Prodigy delves into tales of drug dealing, gang activity, and violent retribution. He raps about how he'll chop you up fine, with razorblades in your face, which is about as graphic as it gets. But amidst all the bloodshed, there are moments of introspection and vulnerability, particularly in the chorus:It's an animal worldYou can be a lamb or you can be a wolf, gotta make your moveThis line acknowledges the brutal nature of the world Mobb Deep inhabits, but also leaves open the possibility for hope and self-improvement.The Themes
Animal Instinct is primarily a song about survival. Havoc and Prodigy grew up in one of the most violent and impoverished neighborhoods in New York City, and their music reflects that reality. The track touches on themes of power, respect, and loyalty, all of which are central to the street culture that Mobb Deep came up in. But at its core, Animal Instinct is about the fight for self-preservation in a world that often feels like it's trying to destroy you. This theme has been explored in countless other hip-hop songs, some of which we'll examine in the next section.Comparison to Other Hip-Hop Songs
There are many other hip-hop songs that deal with similar subject matter as Animal Instinct. Here are a few notable examples:- Survival of the Fittest by Mobb Deep: This song, from Mobb Deep's classic album The Infamous, touches on many of the same themes as Animal Instinct, albeit in a more abstract and poetic way. The beat, produced by Havoc, is one of his best.- Lifestylez ov da Poor & Dangerous by Big L: Another New York rapper known for his vivid lyrics and grim subject matter, Big L rapped about the harsh realities of life in the ghetto on this track. The beat, produced by Buckwild, is a classic example of mid-'90s boom-bap.- C.R.E.A.M. by Wu-Tang Clan: This iconic song from the Wu-Tang Clan's debut album Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) tells the story of young men who turn to drug dealing in order to escape poverty. The beat, produced by RZA, features a soulful sample that has become one of the most recognizable in hip-hop history.- Brenda's Got a Baby by Tupac: Known for his socially conscious lyrics and powerful storytelling, Tupac explored the devastating effects of poverty and violence on young people in this track. The beat, produced by The Underground Railroad, is mournful and haunting.The Verdict
Animal Instinct is a standout track from one of hip-hop's most iconic duos. The production, lyrics, and themes all work together to create a powerful and moving picture of life in the Queensbridge projects. While there are certainly other hip-hop songs that deal with similar subject matter, few match the intensity and specificity of Mobb Deep's work. Animal Instinct is a testament to the enduring power of hip-hop as a vehicle for storytelling and expression.Tips and Tutorial: Understanding Mobb Deep’s Animal Instinct
Introduction:
Mobb Deep’s Animal Instinct is an iconic song in the hip hop community. It was released in 1995 and featured on their album, The Infamous. This song is considered a classic due to its raw and gritty delivery that captured the essence of New York City streets. The success of this song can be attributed to many factors - powerful lyrics, catchy chorus, and captivating beat. In this article, we will break down the elements of this song to help you understand why it has remained relevant over the years.The Lyrics:
The lyrics of Animal Instinct are powerful and evoke vivid imagery of street life in New York. The song opens with a chilling verse, Endeavor to persevere, to a severe extent/ We rockin' over ill beats, the ones that kill streets. These lines set the tone for the rest of the song, establishing a sense of danger and intensity.As the song progress, the lyrics are uncompromising in their descriptions of gangster lifestyle, such as Streets full of cesspools... and We livin' a stressed life/ Thuggin' wit' our last breath.Tips:
To fully appreciate the lyrics of this song, you need to understand the context. In the mid-90s, gang violence was rampant in New York City, and Mobb Deep’s music reflected the brutal realities of the streets. Listening to the lyrics with this in mind will give you a deeper appreciation for the artistry in their storytelling.The Chorus:
The chorus of Animal Instinct is catchy and straightforward. It features a sample from the Al Green song Love and Happiness, which is looped throughout the song. This sample is so hypnotic that it has become an iconic staple of the song. It makes you feel like you are part of a protest or rally, with its repeated plea for peace.Tips:
Mobb Deep’s use of sampling is a significant aspect of their sound. They often use recognizable samples and reimagine them in new and innovative ways. Paying attention to the samples they use in their songs can help you appreciate the creativity of their work.The Production:
The production on Animal Instinct is top-notch. The beat was produced by Mobb Deep themselves and is characterized by its gritty, eerie sound. The song is built around haunting piano loops, heavy bass lines, and menacing synths. The production helps the lyrics pop, and the beat captures the raw intensity of the streets.Tips:
Paying attention to the way a beat is constructed can help you understand why a song may be considered a classic. The production is just as important as the lyrics and can make or break a song.The Flow:
The flow of Animal Instinct is nothing short of impressive. Prodigy and Havoc’s delivery is smooth and effortless, punctuated with well-timed pauses that add to the tension in the song. The two rappers play off each other effortlessly, delivering lines with precision and skill.Tips:
Analyzing a rapper's flow can help you appreciate the nuances in their delivery. It can also help you understand how important timing is in rap music.The Message:
Animal Instinct explores themes of violence, desperation, and survival. The message of the song is clear - life on the streets is tough, and only the strong survive. The song also makes a call for unity and peaceful resolution to conflicts.Tips:
Looking beyond the lyrics of a song and understanding the message it’s trying to send is crucial. Music is art, but it also has meaning that can resonate with people on a deep level.The Legacy:
Animal Instinct has stood the test of time and has become a classic in the hip hop community. The song has been sampled by numerous artists and continues to inspire new generations of artists. The legacy of this song is a testament to the talent and artistry of Mobb Deep.Tips:
To fully appreciate the impact a song can have on a genre, you need to understand its role in shaping the landscape. Animal Instinct has influenced countless artists and is an important part of the history of hip hop.In Conclusion:
Mobb Deep’s Animal Instinct is a classic song that has earned its place in the hip hop hall of fame. The lyrics, chorus, production, flow and message of the song are all excellent examples of what makes a classic hip hop track. By understanding these elements, we can appreciate the talent and artistry behind Mobb Deep’s music. If you haven’t already, take a moment to listen to Animal Instinct with these tips in mind, and experience the magic of this exceptional song.Mobb Deep Animal Instinct: A Raw and Powerful Album
Welcome, music lovers! Today, we're going to take a deep dive into one of the most iconic albums of the hip-hop genre. We’re talking about Animal Instinct, released in 1995 by the legendary Mobb Deep.
Mobb Deep is an American hip-hop duo from Queens, New York, consisting of Havoc and Prodigy. They are widely recognized as one of the most influential groups of the 90s. The duo started its career in 1993 and has been making hit after hit ever since. Today, we will discuss their second album, Animal Instinct, which continues to be a powerful representation of the East Coast rap scene.
The album starts with the title track Animal Instincts, an explosive and intense song with menacing lyrics and a haunting piano melody that sets the tone for the rest of the album. The song speaks about the gritty life of the streets of New York City, with lyrics like “A child of the corn, remembered through out his whole life / To be something like, the neighborhood murderer type.”
In Drop a Gem on 'Em, Mobb Deep pays tribute to the late rapper Tupac Shakur, who had recently been gunned down. The song is a call to arms, with explosive rhymes and bold lyrics targeting Tupac's enemies. It's a raw and emotional track that reflects the turmoil of the times.
Survival of the Fittest is one of the most famous tracks on Animal Instinct. It features a hard-hitting beat that highlights Havoc's and Prodigy's gritty and gripping storytelling abilities. The lyrics explore themes of violence, poverty, and survival skill that resonate with many hip-hop fans.
The fourth track on the album, Extortion, brings a change of pace with its slow and melodic beat. The song features Method Man, another legendary rap artist who hails from Staten Island, New York. Both Method Man and Mobb Deep are known for their unique lyrical styles, so it was a natural collaboration that produced one of the highlights of the album.
Man Down is another standout track on Animal Instinct. A grim and unflinching look at street crime, the lyrics detail the life of a criminal who lives by the gun and ultimately dies by it. The dark beat and haunting melody make it even more impactful.
Another highlight on the album is G.O.D., Pt. III, where Mobb Deep showcases their storytelling mastery, painting vivid pictures of life in Queensbridge. The track shows off Havoc’s lyrical ability, and features witty lines like “MCs ain't got a shot / I'm like an AIDS patient, nobody's taking me out.”
The album closes with Hell on Earth (Front Lines), an explosive finale that is the perfect ending to this powerhouse album. The final track is another example of Mobb Deep’s excellent production and lyricism. The song concludes with a sample from Scarface, reinforcing the brutal and violent nature of the subject matter.
The impact of Animal Instinct dominated the hip-hop scene in 1995 and continues to influence artists today. It is considered a classic of the genre, representing the authentic sound and style of the East Coast. If you are a fan of raw, unfiltered hip-hop that takes no prisoners, this album is definitely worth a listen.
Thank you for reading our in-depth analysis of Animal Instinct by Mobb Deep. We hope you enjoyed it and gained a deeper appreciation for the album. Make sure to add it to your playlist, and let us know your thoughts on the album in the comments section below.
Until next time, keep listening. Mobb Deep has left an indelible mark on the world of hip-hop, and we are all better for it.
People Also Ask About Mobb Deep Animal Instinct
1. What is Mobb Deep Animal Instinct?
Mobb Deep Animal Instinct is the sixth studio album by American hip hop duo Mobb Deep, released on May 14, 1996. The album features guest appearances from Wu-Tang Clan members Ghostface Killah and Raekwon, as well as Big Noyd and others.
2. What are some popular songs from Mobb Deep Animal Instinct?
Some of the popular songs from Mobb Deep Animal Instinct include:
- Animal Instinct
- Drop a Gem on 'Em
- Bloodsport
- Man Down
3. What is the significance of Mobb Deep Animal Instinct in hip hop culture?
Mobb Deep Animal Instinct is considered an important album in the history of east coast hip hop. It is regarded as one of the best albums of 1996, and is noted for its gritty, street-oriented lyrics and production.
4. Who produced Mobb Deep Animal Instinct?
The album was produced by Mobb Deep themselves, along with additional production by The Abstract (Q-Tip), Skeff Anselm, DJ Premier, and others.
5. How did Mobb Deep's career progress after releasing Animal Instinct?
Mobb Deep continued to release successful albums throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, including The Infamous, Hell On Earth, and Murda Muzik. The group also collaborated with other hip hop artists such as Nas, Method Man, and Tupac Shakur.