The
word "retainer" used in rap vernacular often is referring to keeping a
thug on hand that is willing to do dirt. The celebrity retains this person'
s services thru cash payment, or other bartering options such as
weed or pussy in the event that a punch needs to be thrown (or otherwise) and the celebrity would be open to a potential costly lawsuit, whereas the retainer does not have enough money worth be sued for, etc.