Meaning of "This Is Why We Ride" by Body Count

"This Is Why We Ride" delves into the underlying reasons for senseless violence in the hood and the perpetual cycle of revenge. The lyrics speak from a first-person perspective, providing a raw and honest account of the artist's personal experiences and observations. The song opens with a declaration that people always ask about the reasons for such violence, setting the stage for an explanation to follow.

The artist reflects on their own survival, stating that they should have been dead long ago but have somehow managed to survive. Through mentions of involvement in the crack game and gang activity, they explain the desperation and hopelessness that drive individuals towards a life of violence. The lyrics also emphasize the inevitability of death, with the streets painted red from bullets and the police powerless to bring justice.

As the song progresses, the artist mentions their escape from the hood and the relative safety they have found. However, they lament the fact that the violence continues to claim lives every night, leaving grieving mothers behind. The lyrics point to deep-rooted issues in impoverished communities, such as the prevalence of drugs and the absence of hope, which drive people to engage in self-destructive behaviors.

The concept of revenge plays a significant role in the lyrics, representing the desire for justice and the need to settle scores. The artist highlights how the removal of hope and the cycle of poverty contribute to the fierce loyalty experienced within gangs, providing a form of unity that is otherwise absent from their lives. The intense emotions associated with losing loved ones lead to a refusal to rely on law enforcement, instead seeking personal vengeance.

In the spoken word section towards the end of the song, the artist further emphasizes the destructive consequences of street violence. They express the intense pain and anger that comes from losing someone, asserting that their last words would be a cry for revenge rather than peace. The song concludes with a dedication to all those who have lost someone to street violence, reminding listeners that this is why the cycle of violence persists.