"Hard Times" by Esham is a rap song that discusses the struggles and hardships faced by the artist and others in their daily lives. The lyrics depict a gritty and harsh reality, with themes of violence, poverty, and personal struggles. The song begins by addressing those who hate the artist, emphasizing their readiness to defend themselves and their awareness of the deceitful nature of others. The mention of the location "Three-one-three, D-E-T, 7 M-I-L-E" refers to the artist's hometown of Detroit, Michigan. They also mention their firearm and its readiness for self-defense. Esham then references his own identity and style of music, distinguishing himself from others. He talks about the tough streets and the challenges he faces, using explicit language to convey the rawness of his experiences. The mention of Biggie Smalls and Tupac Shakur pays homage to these iconic rappers and acknowledges their impact on the genre. Violent J, a member of Insane Clown Posse, is featured in the song, sharing his own personal experiences of hard times. He recounts discovering a dead body, the abusive relationship with his father, and witnessing domestic violence. These experiences have shaped his outlook on life, reflecting the intense and brutal nature of his surroundings. Shaggy 2 Dope, another member of Insane Clown Posse, provides his perspective on hard times from behind bars. He references being in jail, listing various possible reasons for his incarceration, including stalking, murder, and unauthorized possession of firearms. The lyrics also touch upon sexual content, but it should be noted that these lyrics may be offensive to some listeners. Overall, "Hard Times" reflects the struggles and adversities faced in urban environments, painting a picture of a grim reality. The song is an outlet for expressing the hardships the artists and others have encountered, emphasizing the brutality and tough nature of their lives.
