On December 18, 2023, NPR Music’s acclaimed “Tiny Desk Concert” series welcomed Scarface and his longtime collaborator, Mike Dean, for a soulful and intimate performance. The Houston legend took the audience on a musical journey, revisiting classics like “On My Block,” “Mary Jane,” “Smile,” and the iconic Geto Boys track, “Mind Playing Tricks on Me.”
Amidst the captivating set, Scarface paused to share the poignant backstory of one of his most powerful creations, “I Seen a Man Die.” With Mike Dean by his side, Scarface recounted the birth of the song, tracing back to a late-night session in the studio. “That’s how it came about. So we made the record the night before [and] we come to the studio the next day,” he explained, his fingers gracefully playing the haunting bassline on a keyboard.
The atmosphere turned somber as Scarface revealed the personal connection to the track. “My cousin Jamal’s going, ‘Oh, I don’t know, dawg. I’m just gonna take it one day at a time, you know what I’m saying?’” he shared, paying tribute to his late cousin and conveying the emotional depth of the performance.
Describing the recording experience, Scarface provided a vivid snapshot of that moment in time: “It was really cold in the studio, and I was really, really high, and it was really, really dark… I ain’t know how I was gonna deliver it, but I was f**cking stoned. Like white guy stoned. But I know when I said those words, my eyes got as big as those camera lenses.”
“I Seen a Man Die” stands as a testament to Scarface’s storytelling prowess, a standout track from his acclaimed 1994 album, The Diary. The song delves into the complexities of freedom and redemption, resonating with fans and critics alike.
For those seeking a deeper connection to Scarface’s emotional journey, the full “Tiny Desk Concert” set, including the soul-stirring performance of “I Seen a Man Die,” is available online for an immersive experience.
