Gangsta Paradise Lyrics

Gangsta Paradise Lyrics Meaning & Facts by (Singles). you can watch this video on youtube
while the lyrics are written by Doug Rasheed.The music track was released Date : Aug. 8, 1995.

“Gangsta Paradise” is a powerful and introspective rap song by Coolio, released in 1995 as part of the soundtrack for the film “Dangerous Minds.” The song was a massive hit, showcasing Coolio’s distinctive style and narrative skills. It presents a raw portrayal of the struggles, challenges, and the grim reality of life in the inner city, addressing themes of adversity, disillusionment, and the quest for survival.

[Verse 1: Coolio]
As I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
I take a look at my life and realize there’s nothin’ left
‘Cause I’ve been blastin’ and laughin’ so long that
Even my momma thinks that my mind is gone
But I ain’t never crossed a man that didn’t deserve it
Me be treated like a punk, you know that’s unheard of
You better watch how ya talkin’ and where you walkin’
Or you and your homies might be lined in chalk
I really hate to trip, but I gotta loc
As they croak, I see myself in the pistol smoke, fool
I’m the kinda G the little homies wanna be like
On my knees in the night, sayin’ prayers in the streetlight

(Explanation Of Verse 1)

The song’s opening verse immediately sets a somber tone, referencing the haunting idea of walking through the metaphorical “valley of the shadow of death.” Coolio reflects on his life and the emptiness he perceives, a feeling exacerbated by the cycle of violence and negativity that surrounds him. He acknowledges that even his own mother questions his mental state due to the life he leads. Coolio emphasizes his code of honor, never crossing those who haven’t wronged him, but warning others not to provoke him. The verse portrays a sense of frustration and the harsh realities of a life filled with violence and uncertainty.

[Verse 2: Coolio]
Look at the situation they got me facin’
I can’t live a normal life, I was raised by the state
So I gotta be down with the hood team
Too much television watchin’ got me chasin’ dreams
I’m a educated fool with money on my mind
Got my ten in my hand and a gleam in my eye
I’m a loc’d out gangsta, set trippin’ banger
And my homies is down, so don’t arouse my anger, fool
Death ain’t nothin’ but a heartbeat away
I’m livin’ life do-or-die, what can I say?
I’m 23 now, but will I live to see 24?
The way things is goin’, I don’t know

(Explanation Of Verse 2)

In the second verse, Coolio delves deeper into his background and the circumstances that shaped him. He describes being raised in an environment that didn’t offer a typical or “normal” life. Having been influenced by the streets and limited opportunities, he feels an obligation to align himself with his neighborhood and its code. The lyrics convey the struggle of an individual trying to navigate his aspirations, being both educated and money-driven, yet restricted by the environment and expectations surrounding him. Coolio questions the very essence of life, expressing doubts about his future and whether he’ll even make it to the age of 24.

Complete Lyrics Of The Track

[Verse 1: Coolio]
As I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
I take a look at my life and realize there’s nothin’ left
‘Cause I’ve been blastin’ and laughin’ so long that
Even my momma thinks that my mind is gone
But I ain’t never crossed a man that didn’t deserve it
Me be treated like a punk, you know that’s unheard of
You better watch how ya talkin’ and where you walkin’
Or you and your homies might be lined in chalk
I really hate to trip, but I gotta loc
As they croak, I see myself in the pistol smoke, fool
I’m the kinda G the little homies wanna be like
On my knees in the night, sayin’ prayers in the streetlight

[Chorus: LV]
We’ve been spendin’ most their lives livin’ in the gangsta’s paradise
We’ve been spendin’ most their lives livin’ in the gangsta’s paradise
We keep spendin’ most our lives livin’ in the gangsta’s paradise
We keep spendin’ most our lives livin’ in the gangsta’s paradise

[Verse 2: Coolio]
Look at the situation they got me facin’
I can’t live a normal life, I was raised by the state
So I gotta be down with the hood team
Too much television watchin’ got me chasin’ dreams
I’m a educated fool with money on my mind
Got my ten in my hand and a gleam in my eye
I’m a loc’d out gangsta, set trippin’ banger
And my homies is down, so don’t arouse my anger, fool
Death ain’t nothin’ but a heartbeat away
I’m livin’ life do-or-die, what can I say?
I’m 23 now, but will I live to see 24?
The way things is goin’, I don’t know