In everyday language, this statement means that the speaker never engaged with or participated in activities associated with gangs. It conveys a sense of personal integrity and adherence to principles that steer clear from involvement in criminal or dangerous groups.
Beyond its surface meaning, the quote can also be interpreted as an assertion of individuality and self-respect. By distancing oneself from negative influences like gangs, the speaker might be emphasizing their commitment to maintaining personal values and avoiding potentially harmful associations. This perspective resonates with a broader theme in many cultures: choosing paths that align with one's moral compass rather than succumbing to peer pressure or societal expectations that may lead down darker roads.
The quote is attributed to MC Ren, whose real name is Lorenzo Needham Jr., an American rapper best known as a member of the influential hip-hop group N.W.A. He contributed significantly to the gangsta rap genre during its formative years in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Despite his fame associated with this subculture, MC Ren's statement highlights his personal stance on avoiding direct involvement with gangs, a message that carries weight given his visibility within an environment often characterized by such influences.
