"To Whom This May Concern" by E-40 is a rap song that serves as a letter to the music industry and other rappers. E-40 addresses various topics such as the fickleness of the industry, the struggle for recognition, and his own unique approach to his career. In the song, E-40 starts by telling anyone who fits the description to wear it and not care about others' opinions. He uses profanity to emphasize his boldness and disregard for criticism. The chorus repeats the message that the industry is constantly looking for new artists and trends, implying that today's popular rapper might be forgotten next year. In the first verse, E-40 acknowledges that success in the music industry is often not based on talent but rather on politics and hype. He mentions how some artists receive fame but struggle financially due to record sales, unrecouped expenses, and video budgets. He boasts about his own experience and longevity in the game, highlighting that he doesn't need to explain himself or prove his skills. E-40 then references other artists' achievements, like being on the Billboard charts or receiving an MTV Award. However, he also challenges their attitudes, questioning why they might refuse to shake his hand or distance themselves from their roots. E-40 emphasizes the temporary nature of success, as it's only a matter of time before someone new takes the spotlight. In the second verse, E-40 criticizes program directors who don't support Bay Area rappers, claiming they prefer mainstream and commercial sounds. He refuses to conform to these expectations and mentions his dedication to networking and connecting with his fans. E-40 asserts his confidence in his independent approach and mentions achieving success through the underground scene. In the third verse, E-40 addresses the lack of recognition he receives compared to other artists who are often featured in The Source's "Hip-Hop Quotable" section. He suggests that people might not fully grasp his lyrics because they are not listening closely enough. He mentions his extensive discography and the need to prove himself, highlighting that he earned his deal based on his skills rather than a short verse. E-40 also references the late rapper Tupac Shakur and wonders what he would do in his current situation. He questions the ethics of journalists who often portray rappers negatively. E-40 mentions his ranking on a list but dismisses its importance, stating his allegiance to a magazine named Murder Dog rather than Blaze. Overall, "To Whom This May Concern" is a lyrical tirade against the fickleness of the music industry, the struggle for recognition, and E-40's determination to stay true to himself.
