Discover the story of the song > Why We Thugs – Ice Cube

This song talks about how people in poor neighborhoods are given guns and drugs but then blamed and targeted when they turn to "thug" behavior. The protagonist explains how growing up in a gang-infested area has led to him feeling like he has to be violent to survive, and even when he gets caught by police, the justice system only seems interested in punishing him rather than helping him. The song ultimately calls for understanding and support for those living in impoverished neighborhoods.