You'd be hard-pressed to find a hip-hop head who doesn't recognize Royce Da 5'9's sophomore studio album Death Is Certain to be a classic. Largely seen as the darkest body of work of Nickle's career, the 2004 album also remains one of his most beloved. Of course, the man behind it has since moved on, finding peace in sobriety, reforged friendships, and familial unity. Yet that hasn't dulled the album's impact, and thanks to underground vibes like the incendiary "Throw Back," there remains plenty of reason to revisit Death Is Certain to this day.
The third track of fifteen, "Throw Back" is brought to life by a simmering Ty Fyffe instrumental, the likes of which brings back memories of the Grand Theft Auto III radio circuit. Royce makes quick work of the beat, matching its intensity with confident energy and formidable bars. "I'm from the city of Gators, haters I dealt with them dudes, if you don't like me then likely I'll make a belt with ya shoes," he warns, finding a pocket over the pounding strings. "Put a hole in ya soul, it trickles badder than good, flow is sold, before any nickel bag in your hood."
If you haven't yet checked out Royce Da 5'9's Death Is Certain, be sure to give that a thorough listen at your convenience. It's one of the many reasons fans hold Royce in such high regard, with some even placing the Detroit lyricist comfortably within their top ten. Where do you stand?
QUOTABLE LYRICS
Your type is simply a bitch, and fightin' with me's a risk
I might empty my clip if the hype will get me my niche
I'm out in front of ya, guns out
Bout to knock ya fronts out, boxing about to drop without Columbia
I spit this venom myself, my independence is felt
Finished with Slim and his help, long as he winning I'm good