The song "I Was Only Kidding" by Esham is a rap track that showcases the artist's aggressive and confrontational style. The lyrics primarily revolve around expressing disdain for authority figures, particularly the police, and exhibiting a sense of power and self-reliance. The song starts off with a direct insult, saying "Hey, fuck you, man!" This sets the tone for the rest of the track, which is filled with explicit language and rebellious themes. Esham asserts his dominance by claiming superiority over those who talk negatively about him, implying that he has the means to physically harm them. Esham also tackles political issues, calling out politicians and expressing his frustration with the world's absurdity. He voices his distrust towards the government, stating that he trusts only himself and nobody else. This sentiment is further emphasized by his description of owning guns and shooting someone who knew martial arts in front of others. The lyrics fluctuate between boasting about material possessions and vocalizing a disregard for societal norms. Esham mentions waking up in a new Bugatti and encountering a drone plane, portraying a lavish lifestyle. Simultaneously, he refers to himself as a "black panther" and a "suicide bomber," expressing an overwhelming presence and implying a readiness for violence if needed. Towards the end of the song, there is a spoken exchange between Esham and someone named Frank. This dialogue seems to involve a disagreement regarding a police officer's integrity. Esham asserts that Frank cannot shoot a cop, suggesting that he cannot handle himself in such a situation. Overall, "I Was Only Kidding" reflects Esham's aggressive and rebellious persona, voicing his distaste for authority figures and showcasing a self-reliant and confrontational attitude. The lyrics touch upon social and political themes, and the explicit language adds to the intensity of the track.
