Introduction
“How Do You Want It” is a song by Tupac Shakur, also known as 2Pac. It was released in 1996 and features guest vocals from K-Ci & JoJo. The song was a commercial success, peaking at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The lyrics are known for their explicit sexual content and provocative nature. In this article, we will take a closer look at the lyrics to “How Do You Want It”.
Verse 1
The first verse of the song begins with Tupac rapping, “How do you want it? / How does it feel? / Comin’ up as a nigga in the cash game / Livin’ in the fast lane, I’m for real”. The lyrics are a reflection on Tupac’s own life and experiences, particularly his rise to fame and fortune as a rapper. He talks about the challenges he faced as a black man in a predominantly white industry, and his determination to succeed despite the odds.
Chorus
The chorus of the song is sung by K-Ci & JoJo, and goes, “How do you want it? / How do you feel? / Comin’ up as a woman in the cash game / Livin’ in the fast lane, I’m for real”. The lyrics are a response to Tupac’s verses, and speak to the experiences of women in the music industry. The chorus is a catchy and memorable hook that helped to make the song a hit.
Verse 2
In the second verse of the song, Tupac raps, “I’m a straight baller, havin’ money, ain’t a thang / I’m makin’ records, sellin’ millions, I’m doin’ my thang”. The lyrics are a boastful declaration of Tupac’s success and wealth. He talks about his ability to make money and sell records, and how he is living the life he always dreamed of. The lyrics are a reflection of the materialistic culture of the 90s, and the emphasis on money and success.
Chorus
The chorus is repeated again after the second verse, with K-Ci & JoJo singing, “How do you want it? / How do you feel? / Comin’ up as a woman in the cash game / Livin’ in the fast lane, I’m for real”. The repetition of the chorus helps to reinforce the song’s themes of success and empowerment, while also providing a memorable hook that listeners can sing along to.
Verse 3
The third and final verse of the song sees Tupac returning to more personal themes, rapping, “I see you jockin’ me / Tryin’ to get my dough / So you can buy yourself some clothes / I see you switched to my foes”. The lyrics are a commentary on the people who try to take advantage of Tupac’s success and wealth, and how he is aware of their true motives. The lyrics are a reminder that fame and fortune can come at a cost, and that Tupac was always aware of the dangers that came with his success.
Conclusion
“How Do You Want It” is a classic song by Tupac Shakur, featuring provocative lyrics and a catchy chorus. The song deals with themes of success, empowerment, and the materialistic culture of the 90s. The lyrics are a reflection of Tupac’s own life and experiences, as well as a commentary on the wider world of the music industry. Despite its controversial nature, “How Do You Want It” remains a beloved and influential song in hip-hop history.
