2 Pac is a legendary rapper who left a significant impact on the music industry. He was known for his unique flow, conscious lyrics, and his ability to speak truth to power. One of his lesser-known songs is “Never Had a Friend Like Me,” which was released in 1996. The song is an ode to his close friends and how they have always been there for him. In this article, we will take a closer look at the lyrics of “Never Had a Friend Like Me” and what they mean.
Verse 1
The song begins with 2 Pac reminiscing about his childhood and how his friends were always there for him. He acknowledges that he had a tough upbringing and that his friends were the ones who helped him get through it. He raps, “I had no friends, it’s just me and my AK.” This line is a reference to the violence and gang culture that was prevalent in his neighborhood. The AK-47 is a common weapon used by gang members in the US.
Chorus
The chorus of the song is catchy and features a sample from the Disney movie “Aladdin.” It goes, “Never had a friend like me, never had a friend like me, all these motherfuckers wanna be, like me, never had a friend like me.” The chorus is a testament to the strength of 2 Pac’s friendships and how no one can replace them. He also acknowledges that many people want to be like him but can never be his true friends.
Verse 2
In the second verse, 2 Pac talks about the struggles of being a celebrity and how his friends are the only ones who understand him. He says, “I’m down for you so ride with me, my enemies your enemies.” This line highlights the loyalty that he shares with his friends. He also talks about how he has been betrayed by people in the past and how his friends are the only ones he can trust.
Chorus
The chorus is repeated again, emphasizing the importance of 2 Pac’s friendships.
Verse 3
In the third verse, 2 Pac talks about his rise to fame and how his friends have stayed by his side. He raps, “I got a house on the hills, chasin’ dollar bills, and all my homies down to die for real.” This line shows the contrast between his current life of luxury and his humble beginnings. He also talks about how his friends are willing to risk their lives for him.
Chorus
The chorus is repeated again, emphasizing the importance of 2 Pac’s friendships.
Verse 4
In the final verse, 2 Pac talks about his loyalty to his friends and how he will always be there for them. He raps, “And when we ride, we ride, it’s ’til the day we die.” This line shows the depth of his friendship and how it will never fade away. He also talks about how he will never forget his roots and where he came from.
Conclusion
“Never Had a Friend Like Me” is a powerful song that showcases 2 Pac’s loyalty to his friends. The lyrics are a testament to the strength of his friendships and how they have helped him throughout his life. The catchy chorus and memorable verses make this song a classic in 2 Pac’s discography.
