Esham：Meaning of 24s On A '84 Songmeaning

The song "24s on a '84" by Esham is a gritty and graphic depiction of the underground lifestyle and experiences of the artist and his companions. The lyrics describe their involvement in crime, violence, and the pursuit of money. The title "24s on a '84" refers to the 24-inch wheels found on a 1984 Buick Regal, a symbol of status and material wealth in some communities. This car is often associated with the hip-hop culture and is commonly used to showcase success and prosperity. Esham starts off by reflecting on the violence he has witnessed, the various shades of blood he has seen shed, and the idea that engaging in criminal activities can lead to financial gain. He mentions riding sideways to emphasize his reckless behavior and disregard for the law. He then switches to boasting about his ability to avoid getting shot while engaging in criminal acts and his skill with a shank (a homemade knife) to take down his enemies. Esham continues with his description of cruising through dangerous neighborhoods, armed with two Desert Eagle guns, ready to protect himself and save the underground music genre like the protagonist Neo does in the movie "The Matrix." TNT, another artist featured in the song, follows Esham's theme of violence, claiming to be the real deal and warning his enemies that they will get their "wig split," meaning they will be severely beaten or killed. He boasts about his flashy lifestyle, with clean rims, women who perform sexual acts, and a drug dealing operation. Shaggy 2 Dope adds his own perspective, sharing his experiences cruising the streets in his 1984 Regal with 24-inch spinner wheels. He mentions encounters with the police and his nonchalant attitude towards their presence. Shaggy 2 Dope also expresses his frustration towards people who criticize his extravagance, defending his choice to showcase his success and dismissing their opinions. Overall, the song portrays a violent and dangerous lifestyle in the underground music scene. It focuses on material possessions, criminal activities, and an unapologetic attitude towards law enforcement.