Rick Ross’ “BMF (Blowin’ Money Fast)” Music Video Brings Street Cred to the Spotlight
Rick Ross is no stranger to crafting anthems that resonate with the streets, but “BMF (Blowin’ Money Fast)” takes that reputation to a new level. Released as the second single from his fourth studio album, Teflon Don, this track has become a defining moment in hip-hop culture. Featuring Styles P and produced by Lex Luger, the record fuses aggressive beats and powerful lyrics to create a raw, high-energy anthem.
On July 19, 2010, Rick Ross dropped the official music video for “BMF,” directed by Parris. The release was met with excitement from fans, thanks to its star-studded cameos and its homage to street legends like Big Meech and Larry Hoover. Shot with a gritty aesthetic, the video blends raw visuals with an undeniable swagger, reinforcing Ross’s standing as a force in hip-hop.
A Tribute to Legends: Big Meech and Larry Hoover
The title of the song, “BMF,” directly references the Black Mafia Family, a Detroit-based drug trafficking organization founded by Demetrius “Big Meech” Flenory. The lyrics “I think I’m Big Meech, Larry Hoover” pay homage to two larger-than-life figures in street history. Larry Hoover was the leader of the Black Gangster Disciple Nation, while Big Meech remains an enduring icon of street culture.
Ross’s decision to name-check these figures stirred controversy and admiration in equal measure. However, any doubt about the authenticity of the record was erased when Big Meech himself gave his seal of approval. On June 24, 2010, DJ Nasty tweeted on behalf of Big Meech:
“I LUV THE RICKROSS SONG! I HEARD IT & THAT NIG WENT HARD 4 ME SO LET HIM KNOW I APPRECIATE IT.”
Rick Ross also shared the news on his Twitter, writing:
“Big Meech sent a message today… he embrace’s my joint and movement.. salute!”
This validation from Big Meech added an unmatched level of authenticity to the track, cementing it as an anthem for the streets.
The Star-Studded Music Video
The “BMF” music video is as bold as the track itself, featuring appearances by hip-hop heavyweights and cultural icons. Diddy, Jadakiss, DJ Khaled, Fat Joe, Triple C’s, and Lex Luger are just a few of the notable names who make cameos. Their presence emphasizes the widespread respect Ross commands in the industry.
Shot with a raw, street-inspired aesthetic, the video features luxury cars, extravagant displays of wealth, and powerful imagery of solidarity. Ross’s imposing presence is front and center as he delivers his verses with unmatched intensity. The video also pays subtle homage to the larger-than-life figures referenced in the song, further blurring the line between music and the realities of street culture.
Controversy and Rivalry: The Young Jeezy Remix
Adding to the buzz around “BMF,” Young Jeezy released a remix titled “Death B4 Dishonor” on his 1,000 Grams mixtape. Some fans interpreted the remix as a subliminal diss toward Rick Ross, sparking rumors of a brewing feud between the two artists. However, Ross downplayed any tension in an interview with DJ Self:
“I think Jeezy got my number; he knows where I’m at. We blow money fast over here.”
While Jeezy’s remix added fuel to the conversation, it ultimately underscored the cultural impact of “BMF.” Few tracks can inspire such passionate responses from both fans and fellow artists.
Breaking Down the Lyrics of “BMF”
Rick Ross’s lyrics in “BMF” are both anthemic and provocative. The chorus, “I think I’m Big Meech, Larry Hoover, whippin’ work, hallelujah,” serves as a bold declaration of power and influence. Throughout the song, Ross uses vivid imagery to paint a picture of success, ambition, and resilience. Lines like “My Rolls Royce triple-black, I’m Geechee, ho” and “Cocaine runnin’ in my big veins” reinforce the gritty themes that have become synonymous with Ross’s brand.
Styles P’s verse adds another layer of intensity, referencing everything from the video game Red Dead Redemption to the harsh realities of life on the streets. Together, Ross and Styles P create a dynamic narrative that resonates with audiences across the hip-hop spectrum.
Rick Ross Addresses the Streets
In a recent promotional stop in Chicago, Rick Ross paid tribute to the figures he referenced in “BMF.” During his performance, Ross said:
“I want to salute Chicago. I want to salute Mr. Larry Hoover. I want to salute Big Meech. We real n****s; tell the streets they can think what they want.”
Ross also met with Larry Hoover Jr., the son of Larry Hoover, during his time in Chicago. A photo of the two embracing dispelled rumors that Hoover Jr. had “checked” Ross over the song’s references to his father. This meeting highlighted the respect Ross extends to the real-life figures who inspire his music.
The Cultural Impact of “BMF”
“BMF” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural statement. The track’s hard-hitting beats and unapologetic lyrics capture the essence of street life, making it a standout moment in Ross’s career. Its release further solidified Ross’s position as one of hip-hop’s most influential artists, while the music video’s high-profile cameos demonstrated his widespread respect in the industry.
The song also sparked conversations about authenticity in hip-hop, with Ross facing both praise and criticism for his portrayal of street culture. However, the endorsement from Big Meech himself silenced most critics, proving that “BMF” is not only a tribute but also a testament to Ross’s ability to connect with the streets.
“BMF” is a very hard-hitting follow-up to Rick Ross’ lighter lead single, “Super High.” The Ne-Yo-assisted record is a smooth track and also boasts a cameo from Stacey Dash.
Conclusion: A Legacy Cemented
With “BMF (Blowin’ Money Fast),” Rick Ross delivered a track that transcends music, becoming a cultural anthem. The song’s raw energy, combined with its powerful lyrics and high-profile endorsements, ensures its place in hip-hop history. As Ross continues to rise, “BMF” remains a defining moment in his journey, showcasing his ability to balance street authenticity with mainstream success.
For fans of hip-hop, “BMF” is more than just a song—it’s a reminder of the power of music to inspire, provoke, and unite.
