Throwback Thursday – Three 6 Mafia – Keep Flying

“Stay Fly” is a classic hip-hop track that showcases Three 6 Mafia’s signature sound: a mix of tongue-twisting flows, haunting melodies, and beats that evoke a sense of the macabre that sets them apart. Hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, Three 6 Mafia have created a lasting legacy in the rap world.

The group’s groundbreaking style not only caught on with fans, but also laid the foundation 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 such as Crunk, Phonk and Trap.

The group’s influence transcends subgenres and reaches the mainstream. Artists like A$AP Rocky, Megan The Stallion, and the Migos have incorporated the triplet flow into their music.

“Stay Fly” was a huge hit, reaching number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. It remains one of Three 6 Mafia’s most successful and recognizable songs, and it’s still played in the club.

The song features guest verses from Memphis rappers 8Ball & MJG, as well as Young Buck, who was then a member of 50 Cent’s G-Unit. (Poor Young Buck)

The repeated phrase “Gotta stay fly” in the chorus has become iconic and is often quoted or parodied.

There was a big rumor at the time that the sampled background vocals were saying “Lucifer, you’re my king,” fueling 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 signature, laid-back groove.

“Stay Fly” has been referenced and sampled countless times in popular culture, even appearing in the 2006 comedy film “Jackass Number Two.” (I searched everywhere but couldn’t find the clip online.)

Three 6 Mafia also won an Oscar in 2006 for their song “It’s Hard out Here for a Pimp” from the film Bustle and flow.

The boys all got together and performed “Stay Fly” again for Verzuz 2 years ago.

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And they’re actually doing shows again. Most notably one in Brooklyn with Project Pat at our friends’ tent, The Mirage.

I really hope I can fly here and report for Backstage.