Released: 2015
“Norf Norf” by Vince Staples is a raw, gritty chronicle of the rapper’s life and experiences in the Northside of Long Beach, California. Staples uses vivid imagery and distinct vernacular to paint a picture of the realities of gang life and social issues that define his hood.
Opening with a dismissive taunt, “Bitch you thirsty, please grab a Sprite,” Staples sets the scene of constant tension in his neighborhood where his Crip associates are on high alert, ready for conflict. The fast-paced life is contrasted with a yearning for simple pleasures, like dancing with a girl, but cautioning against moving too rapidly in such a turbulent environment.
“Man down, down the ave and get shaded” refers to someone getting shot in the neighborhood, while Staples suggests he can distract himself with a sexual escapade. Staples is unapologetically gang-affiliated, putting that on his Yankee cap – a staple of street fashion and a symbol of Americana.
The line, “Bandana brown like the dope daddy shootin’ in the kitchen,” conveys harsh realities of drug addiction and domestic environments in his community. Staples emphasizes his authenticity as a “Real Norfside nigga” distinguishing himself from those who attended popular high schools like Poly, Wilson, or Cabrillo.
Repeating the refrain, “I ain’t never ran from nothin’ but the police,” recalls the fear and harassment inflicted by law enforcement. The image of the “skinny carry strong heat” underscores the dire circumstances where even the physically weak must arm themselves in the dangerous landscape of “Norfside, Long Beach.”
Staples addresses materialism, societal expectations, and his desire for privacy in the lines: “Folks need Porsches, hoes need abortions / I just need y’all out of my business.” He shows his determination to stay out of trouble, play no games, and deal with the situations life throws at him – “No face, no case, been wit’ the shit.”
In the verse “Know when change gon’ come like Obama would say,” Staples references the iconic Obama slogan, combining it with the harsh realities of frequent shootings around his family. His response, to arm even the most vulnerable, illustrates the grim coping strategies formed in such a threatening environment.
The concluding verses feature shout-outs to notable figures like Nate Dogg, a fellow Long Beach rapper who remains a vital part of the culture. Staples also references the classic film “Boyz n the Hood” with “Ridin’ ’round with the same shotgun that shot Ricky.”
Overall, “Norf Norf” serves as a robust narrative of Vince Staples’ reality, exposing listeners to the harsh world of Northside Long Beach and the enduring spirit required to navigate it. Using explicit language and raw storytelling, Staples underlines how deeply he’s rooted in his environment and how it shaped him, providing a stark and vivid portrait of life on the streets.
