The song "Up or Down" by E-40 featuring DJ Fresh is about E-40's success and constant upward progression in his career and personal life. The lyrics portray E-40's determination to always move forward, never settling for less, and always striving for more success and financial stability. The song starts with DJ Fresh asking, "You goin' up or down?" and E-40 confidently responding, "I'm goin' up." This exchange sets the tone for the rest of the song. E-40 goes on to mention his upbringing in a neighborhood known for crime and drugs, referencing terms like "eleven-five" (street slang for crack cocaine) and "dogfood" (street slang for heroin). Despite the challenges he faced growing up, E-40 has managed to rise above his circumstances and succeed in the music industry. He mentions his ability to make money and his ambition to continue accumulating wealth. He then boasts about his luxurious lifestyle, mentioning designer brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci. E-40 is proud of his accomplishments and expresses his ability to buy expensive things like Range Rovers. E-40 continues to assert his dominance in the rap game, stating that he doesn't need local fame because he has his own lane and is internationally recognized. He also challenges anyone who doubts his success or tries to bring him down, stating that he won't engage with negativity. Throughout the song, E-40 emphasizes his constant hustle and entrepreneurial spirit. He talks about his monetary success, his ability to maintain relevance in the industry, and his dismissal of haters and doubters. E-40's overall message is that he is always moving upward, never content with where he is, and always striving for more.
