Break Yourself

Xzibit's 'Break Yourself' is a raw and unfiltered portrayal of street life, power dynamics, and the ruthless nature of survival in a hostile environment. The song opens with a reference to 'The Art of War,' a classic text on strategy and combat, setting the tone for a narrative that is both aggressive and strategic. Xzibit positions himself as a master tactician, ready to dismantle his enemies with precision and brutality. The imagery of being 'snatched off, put in a frame, and hanged' evokes a sense of finality and dominance, emphasizing the artist's control over his adversaries.

The hook of the song reinforces this theme of dominance and control, with Xzibit commanding his listeners to 'break yourself right now.' This phrase is a colloquial way of demanding submission, often used in contexts where one party is asserting their power over another. The references to 'trading six and pancake ya loan' and 'shaking ya Crys' suggest a world where material wealth and status are both coveted and easily taken away. The imagery of an 'open bar' and 'free drinks' juxtaposes the violent undertones with a veneer of celebration, highlighting the duality of pleasure and pain in this lifestyle.

In the second verse, Xzibit delves deeper into the consequences of crossing him. He describes a life where 'bitches die, cry, and lust for us,' painting a picture of a world where loyalty is fleeting and betrayal is met with swift retribution. The line 'don't pop the Crys I pop the clutch' serves as a metaphor for action over indulgence, emphasizing the artist's focus on survival and success. The verse ends with a chilling reminder of the stakes involved, as Xzibit declares that those who oppose him will be 'left holding the bag like John Forte,' a reference to the rapper who was famously arrested for drug trafficking.

The final verse continues this narrative of dominance and retribution, with Xzibit describing scenarios where his enemies are left incapacitated or worse. The line 'hospital bed you vegetable' is a stark reminder of the physical consequences of this violent lifestyle. The verse also touches on themes of loyalty and betrayal, as Xzibit recounts encounters with women who are quick to switch allegiances. The song concludes with a repetition of the hook, reinforcing the message that in Xzibit's world, power and control are paramount, and those who fail to recognize this will be swiftly dealt with.