"Kill or be Killed" by Esham is a song that delves into the gritty world of drug dealing, violence, and survival in the streets. The lyrics depict the experiences and mindset of someone involved in the drug trade during the late 1980s. The song starts off by mentioning a conspiracy investigation that led to the arrests of eleven individuals aged 19 to 45. The investigation lasted for six months and involved mid- to upper-level drug dealers. The drugs were allegedly being sent through UPS or transported by vehicles from Los Angeles to Detroit and Columbus, Ohio. The intended purpose was to cut powdered cocaine into crack cocaine for distribution. In the first verse, Esham reminisces about his own involvement in the drug trade. He mentions pushing dimes (selling gram quantities) out of crack houses in order to make money. He also talks about committing violent acts, such as murdering someone who tried to inform on him. He carried a .357 Magnum chrome pistol and was consumed by a criminal lifestyle. Esham then describes how he expanded his drug operation and established connections with a powerful Colombian drug cartel. Despite making significant amounts of money, he emphasizes that trust is dangerous and no one can truly win in this world. He mentions losing a friend who was shot and killed on 7 Mile Road in broad daylight, causing him to fear for his own life. The chorus, repeated four times, conveys a message of toughness and survival in the face of danger, suggesting that in such a violent environment, it's either kill or be killed. The second verse highlights the constant threats Esham faces from both rival drug dealers and law enforcement. He mentions police trying to arrest him and alludes to possible accusations of child molestation. Frustrated with the situation, he opens fire on a car that he suspects belongs to his friend's murderer. The car contains a woman and a baby, yet Esham shows no remorse as he views them as collateral damage in his pursuit of revenge. Realizing that he is now a target for the police, Esham tries to escape but is eventually surrounded. In a moment that reflects his refusal to go down without a fight, he ignores their demands to surrender and continues to resist. The song concludes with a chilling realization that Esham has no choice but to use violence to protect himself. In his hands, he holds the murder weapon, ready to do whatever is necessary to survive. Overall, "Kill or be Killed" encapsulates the harsh realities of the drug trade, the violence it breeds, and the desperation individuals face when their lives become intertwined in criminal activities. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world where trust is scarce, violence is common, and survival is paramount.
