Paws Lyrics - Tyrese

About “Paws”

Paws by Tyrese is a hard-hitting track from the 1992 (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack), released on August 30, 2024. Featuring iconic West Coast rappers Snoop Dogg and Tha Dogg Pound (Kurupt and Daz Dillinger), the song blends the gritty, confrontational energy of gangsta rap with the distinctive laid-back style of West Coast hip-hop. Tyrese, under his rap alias "Black Ty," delivers a raw performance alongside the rap veterans, making this track a reflection on dominance, loyalty, and street survival. The aggressive, swagger-filled verses are underscored by the repeated command to "paws," signaling a warning to haters and rivals alike.

• Featuring: Snoop Dogg & Tha Dogg Pound


• Writers: Tyrese, Snoop Dogg, Kurupt, & Daz Dillinger


• Album: 1992 (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)


• Release Date: August 30, 2024


• Genre: West Coast Hip-Hop, Gangsta Rap

Song Meanings Explained.

At its core, Paws is a boastful anthem rooted in street bravado and West Coast pride. The recurring hook “paws” serves as a direct challenge to detractors, signaling a halt to anyone attempting to interfere with their success. The song’s focus is on power, dominance, and respect within the streets, drawing on imagery of wealth, violence, and gang life.

[Intro]

The intro sets an aggressive tone, with Snoop Dogg introducing the Dogg Pound and Tyrese's alter ego, "Black Ty." It establishes the crew as untouchable and ready for any challenge. The Dogg Pound’s presence adds weight to the song’s credibility, as they are longstanding figures in West Coast rap.

[Verse 1: Tyrese]

Tyrese, as "Black Ty," kicks off the track with a mixture of luxury and street imagery. He references expensive items like Benihana's in his backyard, juxtaposing it with his gritty past and connections to gang life. The verse touches on his rise from humble beginnings to fame, mentioning figures like Robert De Niro and O.J. Simpson’s lawyer, Robert Shapiro, to emphasize his new-found elite status. The verse ends with a clear statement of control over Los Angeles, likening his dominance to that of Lakers’ owner Jerry Buss.

[Chorus]

The chorus acts as a warning to haters, demanding them to "paws" or stop in their tracks. The repetition underscores the crew’s position of power and wealth in the streets, making it clear that they won’t tolerate any disrespect.

[Verse 2: Kurupt]

Kurupt continues the aggressive tone, calling out those who envy or oppose him. His verse is filled with violent imagery, indicating his readiness to defend his status. He talks about teaching younger generations how to navigate street life while reflecting on his ability to "levitate" above the economic challenges others face. His lyrics convey a sense of untouchability and mastery over his environment.

[Verse 3: Snoop Dogg]

Snoop Dogg’s verse embodies his trademark laid-back yet authoritative style. He speaks from the perspective of a veteran in the game, stacking money and maintaining his status as a top player. He references his wealth, his influence in both music and the streets, and his ability to outmaneuver rivals. The imagery of “Black Ty” and Snoop collaborating underscores their collective dominance in both the entertainment industry and the streets.

[Verse 4: Daz Dillinger]

Daz Dillinger’s verse closes the song with a sharp focus on West Coast identity. He mentions classic cultural elements like the Raiders and "C-walking," symbols of West Coast gang culture. His verse reflects the no-nonsense attitude of a veteran who has navigated the perils of street life, further emphasizing the song’s theme of survival and loyalty.

Song Theme.

The central theme of Paws is about maintaining power and status in the streets. The term “paws” symbolizes a command to stop or bow down, warning anyone who dares to oppose the rappers' dominance. The song celebrates wealth, street credibility, and loyalty, while warning enemies and detractors to fall back. Each verse reinforces the crew's untouchability, with references to gang life, material success, and the harsh realities of the streets.

Technical Analysis.

The production of Paws features a heavy, bass-driven beat typical of West Coast hip-hop. The instrumental creates a menacing, almost ominous backdrop that matches the aggressive tone of the lyrics. The use of slow, steady rhythms complements the rappers’ delivery, giving each verse space to breathe and allowing the weight of their words to sink in.

Lyrically, the song is packed with metaphors and references to luxury, violence, and power. Tyrese, Kurupt, Snoop Dogg, and Daz Dillinger each bring their distinctive styles to the track, blending wordplay with braggadocio. The repetitive hook of “paws” serves as both a thematic anchor and a musical break between verses, emphasizing the song's confrontational message.

In conclusion, Paws is a high-energy, assertive track that blends gangsta rap bravado with West Coast pride. Tyrese's "Black Ty" persona shines alongside rap legends Snoop Dogg and Tha Dogg Pound, making this track a standout on the 1992 (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack).