Table:
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lay Bop | Blockwork | Blockwork | E.B.S | October 14, 2022 | Rap | Shomiibeats, prodbywar |
Lay Bop is a response to Notti Bop, a diss track released by Notti Osama, a former gang associate of Blockwork. Blockwork, a former member of the OY gang, was expelled from the group and decided to associate with 41. In retaliation, Notti Osama targeted both 41 and Blockwork in his diss track “41k.” This led to Kyle Richh creating Notti Bop as a response to Notti Osama’s track. Unfortunately, Notti Osama passed away in July 2022.
In response to the situation, Blockwork released his own diss track against 41, also titled “41k.” The track Lay Bop serves as Blockwork’s personal response to the situation, expressing his remorse for Notti Osama’s death and his decision to distance himself from the 41 group.
The song also pays tribute to Lay, a 15-year-old Choo member who had close connections with some members of the 41 group, including Kyle Rich and Jenn Carter. Tragically, Lay lost his life when he was fatally stabbed in a laundromat.
According to the lyrics, Lay Bop reflects the raw emotions and experiences of Blockwork. The lyrics speak about violence and the harsh realities of street life. Blockwork mentions the use of firearms and confrontations with rivals. The song’s intense and aggressive nature captures the intense energy and emotions associated with the situation.
The track’s hook, “Up it, hit a nigga where he stands, Fuck it, turn a nigga to a strand” portrays a violent and ruthless mindset, while the line “Dump it, make a nigga do a dance” captures the power dynamics and dominance-play often associated with gang culture.
As a listener, the song Lay Bop evokes a mix of emotions. The aggressive and intense nature of the track can be unsettling. It serves as a reminder of the harsh realities faced by many individuals in certain communities, where violence and conflict are ever-present.
However, it is essential to recognize that this song is a reflection of Blockwork’s personal experiences and the environment he comes from. It provides insight into a world that many of us may not fully comprehend or experience firsthand.
Lay Bop also showcases the influence of drill music and New York rap, with its gritty beats and powerful lyrical delivery. The use of samples from “Pump It” by the Black Eyed Peas adds a juxtaposition of mainstream appeal and underground street culture.
In conclusion, Lay Bop by Blockwork is a song that delves into the harsh realities of street life, violence, and conflicts within gang culture. It serves as Blockwork’s personal response to a series of diss tracks and pays tribute to the life of Lay, a young member who tragically lost his life. While the song’s aggressive nature may be unsettling, it provides insight into a world that exists outside the realms of our everyday experiences.
