This is one of the finest hip hop songs ever penned. The lyrics and flow are on point, and the production is awe inspiringly brilliant.
Raekwon is one of the key components of the winning Wu Tang Clan formula. The dynamic flow is delivered slower here, bouncing off Ghostface Killah fluidly.
The production is a web of gossamer thin organ and rhodes, an intricate dance of keys balancing on a slow but extremely groovy drum loop.
Backing vocals are provided by Blue Raspberry, adding another layer of complexity and soul to the track.
Lyrically, the song moves from the typical gangsta hood story to a more philosophical take, saying that the idea of hell is meaningless to anyone living a miserable life full of pain and fear already.
The song was released in 1994 as the lead single from 1995’s seminal golden age hip hop album, Only Built 4 Cuban Linx –Raekwon’s debut.