Throwback Thursday - Three 6 Mafia - Stay Fly
"Stay Fly" is a classic hip-hop track that showcases Three 6 Mafia's signature sound- a blend of tongue-twisting flows, haunting melodies, and beats that evoke a sense of the macabre, set them apart. Hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, Three 6 Mafia carved an enduring legacy in the rap world.
The group's pioneering style not only resonated with fans but also laid the groundwork for several subgenres that dominate hip-hop today.
Their innovative use of the "triplet flow", a rhythmic pattern that has become synonymous with Southern rap, and their exploration of dark, atmospheric themes, proved influential in the development of subgenres like Crunk, Phonk, and Trap.
The group's influence transcends subgenres, reaching the mainstream as well. Artists like A$AP Rocky, Megan The Stallion, and the Migos have incorporated the triplet flow into their music.
"Stay Fly" was a major hit, reaching number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. It remains one of Three 6 Mafia's most successful and recognizable songs. And it still goes off in the club today.
The song features guest verses from fellow Memphis rappers 8Ball & MJG, as well as Young Buck, who was a member of 50 Cent's G-Unit at the time. (Poor Young Buck)
The repeated "Gotta stay fly" chant in the chorus has become iconic and is often quoted or parodied.
There was a big rumor back in the day that the sampled vocals in the background were saying "Lucifer, you're my king," which fueled speculation about the group's alleged Satanic connections. In reality, the lyrics are "You're my pride, you're my king, you're my darling."
The song prominently samples Willie Hutch's 1973 soul song "Tell Me Why Has Our Love Turned Cold". This sample is what gives the song its distinctive, laid-back groove.
"Stay Fly" has been referenced and sampled numerous times in popular culture. It even appeared in the 2006 comedy film "Jackass Number Two." (I looked everywhere and couldn't find the clip online).
Three 6 Mafia also won an Oscar in 2006 for their track "It's Hard out Here for a Pimp" from the movie Hustle & Flow.
The boys all got together and performed "Stay Fly" again 2 years ago for Verzuz.
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And they're actually doing shows again. Most notably, one in Brooklyn with Project Pat at our friends' spot The Mirage.
Really hoping to fly in for this one and cover it for Backstage.