The song "Earning My $" by Esham is a gritty and dark rap song that explores themes of drug trafficking, violence, and survival in the streets of Detroit. Esham, a rapper from Detroit himself, uses vivid and explicit lyrics to depict the harsh realities and hustle of his hometown. The song begins with Esham riding the metaphorical waves of life like a surfer on a surfboard. He declares his affiliation with drug lords from Detroit, suggesting that he comes from a dangerous and criminal environment. Esham references his upbringing in the ghetto, where he and his friends used to play with guns ("heavy metal toys"). He also mentions going through difficult times, comparing his experiences to the devil, indicating that he has faced and overcome many challenges. The lyrics further highlight Esham's association with drugs and violence. He boasts about his reputation as a respected and known figure ("Esham's dope, ho, take a sniff or, Shoot it in your veins, dead body stiff, boy"). He claims that he raps "wicket," which means he focuses on dark and taboo subjects, as it is a characteristic of his style. Throughout the song, Esham displays his street smarts and toughness. He references his neighborhood, Seven Mile, and proclaims that nothing scares him. He also alludes to his skills with firearms and his willingness to use them when necessary. Esham continues to assert his dominance as a rapper and a figure in the underground hip-hop scene. He criticizes other rappers, accusing them of being fake and lacking authenticity. He acknowledges his reputation for being aggressive and willing to confront others ("Umpire of the underground calling foul"). The second half of the song focuses on a specific incident where Esham is involved in a violent confrontation. He describes a scenario where someone named Rick comes to his door, but Esham ends up shooting him in the face. This action leads to the police surrounding his place, and he finds himself on the run from the law. The chorus of the song, "Sittin' down in a crack house, earning my pay," implies that Esham is involved in the drug trade and is willing to do whatever it takes to make money and survive in his environment. Overall, "Earning My $" paints a vivid picture of the harsh realities and struggles of life in Detroit, particularly in relation to drugs, violence, and survival. It reflects Esham's personal experiences and portrays a dark and gritty narrative.
