Drag-On’s New Track “Black Ops” Revives His Ruff Ryders Energy
Former Ruff Ryders artist Drag-On is making his presence known with his new release, “Black Ops.” The track not only brings back his fiery flow but also showcases his lyrical creativity as he raps over an Eminem beat. With references to Osama Bin Laden, Def Jam, and a possible connection with Shady Records, Drag-On demonstrates that he’s still a formidable force in the rap game.
Drag-On’s Journey Back to the Spotlight
Known for his rapid-fire delivery and gritty street tales, Drag-On rose to fame as a core member of Ruff Ryders in the late 1990s. His contributions to the label’s compilation albums and his solo projects helped solidify his reputation as a skilled lyricist. Despite stepping away from the mainstream spotlight in recent years, Drag-On has been steadily grinding. As a result, releasing music independently through his Hood Environment label and mixtape series, The Crazies.
“Black Ops,” featured on his upcoming mixtape The Crazies 3, marks a significant step in Drag-On’s comeback. With DJ Self hosting the mixtape, Drag-On appears determined to reignite the buzz around his music. Therefore, using “Black Ops” as a bold statement of intent.
A Lyrical Assault on “Black Ops”
On “Black Ops,” Drag-On wastes no time diving into hard-hitting bars that reflect his streetwise persona. Opening with the line, “Call of Duty, F shot, got them looking like a horror movie,” he sets the tone for a track packed with sharp metaphors and vivid imagery. Drag-On’s wordplay is relentless as he touches on themes of resilience, survival, and his place in the ever-evolving hip-hop landscape.
His mention of Osama Bin Laden—“I don’t believe [it] until they bring me back his head”—adds a controversial edge to the track, showing that Drag-On isn’t afraid to take risks lyrically. The reference underscores the boldness of his delivery and reflects the raw, unfiltered energy that has always been a hallmark of his style.
A Nod to Def Jam and Shady Records
Drag-On also uses “Black Ops” to reflect on his career trajectory and explore his future prospects. A standout moment in the song is when he raps, “G*dd*mn good looking Def Jam, I’m all right, so I’ma sign this with my left hand.” This line can be interpreted as both a reflection on his past ties to the industry and his readiness to re-establish himself as a major player.
Even more intriguing is his shout-out to Shady Records, saying, “They say I need to be on Shady. I don’t give a [bleep] as long as Dre pay me.” Over an Eminem beat, this line carries extra weight, hinting at a potential collaboration or even aspirations to align with Dr. Dre’s iconic label. Drag-On’s admiration for Eminem and Dre adds a layer of excitement for fans, who are eager to see where his music takes him next.
The Hood Environment Movement
As he reclaims his position in the rap game, Drag-On continues to push his independent Hood Environment label. Known for its gritty, no-frills approach, the label represents Drag-On’s dedication to staying true to his roots. “Black Ops” is the perfect embodiment of the Hood Environment ethos, blending street narratives with sharp lyricism and a sense of authenticity that’s often missing in today’s rap scene.
With The Crazies 3 set to drop on September 14, Drag-On is proving that he hasn’t lost his hunger. The mixtape is expected to include features and collaborations that highlight both emerging talent and veteran voices, further cementing Hood Environment’s reputation as a platform for raw, unfiltered hip-hop.
A Return to Ruff Ryders Energy
While Drag-On has carved out his independent path, his legacy with Ruff Ryders remains a significant part of his story. Fans of the label’s heyday will recognize the raw energy and aggression in “Black Ops” as reminiscent of Ruff Ryders’ early days. Tracks like “Down Bottom” and his verses on the Ryde or Die compilations showcased Drag-On’s knack for delivering head-turning bars, a skill he hasn’t lost.
Ruff Ryders’ recent efforts to relaunch their brand, including the announcement of a compilation album featuring DMX, Eve, and other original members, demonstrate that the crew’s legacy is still alive. Drag-On’s continued relevance, even as an independent artist, is a testament to the impact of Ruff Ryders on hip-hop culture.
What “Black Ops” Means for Drag-On’s Future
“Black Ops” isn’t just another track—it’s a declaration. Drag-On is making it clear that he’s here to compete, whether it’s through his Hood Environment movement or potential major-label partnerships. His willingness to experiment with beats and topics shows growth, while his hard-hitting delivery remains intact.
The line “I’m back in the game, it was destined” encapsulates his journey. Drag-On’s return isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about proving he still has what it takes to stand out in a crowded industry. With the release of The Crazies 3, fans can expect more tracks that showcase his lyrical prowess and commitment to authentic hip-hop.
Conclusion: Drag-On Is Just Getting Started
As “Black Ops” makes its rounds, Drag-On is reminding fans why he was such a pivotal figure during Ruff Ryders’ reign. His ability to blend introspection, street storytelling, and biting wordplay sets him apart in today’s rap landscape. With his mixtape on the horizon and his name buzzing once again, Drag-On’s future looks bright.
For fans of raw, unfiltered hip-hop, “Black Ops” is a must-listen. It’s not just a track; it’s a mission statement from an artist who refuses to fade into the background. As Drag-On himself says, “Take a seat, fall back, just watch me.”
After years of working independently and nurturing his Hood Environment movement, Drag-On is proving that his passion and talent remain unshaken. His decision to rap over an Eminem beat while referencing industry giants like Def Jam and Shady Records reflects his desire to evolve as an artist while staying rooted in his raw, unfiltered style.
As The Crazies 3 mixtape drops tomorrow, fans can expect Drag-On to continue pushing the boundaries of his craft. His ability to blend sharp lyricism with industry commentary ensures he stands out in today’s competitive rap landscape. For hip-hop enthusiasts, “Black Ops” is a bold reminder that Drag-On is still here, still hungry, and still ready to claim his space.
