The song "Nothing" by Esham explores themes of violence, loss, and disillusionment in the music industry. The lyrics depict a dark and chaotic world, where death and destruction surround the narrator. The opening lines reflect on the consequences of ignorance and not knowing one's fate. The line "Another nigga dead 'cause he didn't know his fate" suggests that a lack of awareness can lead to fatal outcomes. The repetition of the phrase "Knock, knock, knock, knockin', I'm still knockin' on Heaven's gates" implies that the narrator is constantly faced with mortality and the afterlife. The line "Hell on Earth, wait, is it too late?" expresses the idea of a world filled with suffering and questions if redemption or change is still possible. Sitting in church and seeing the collection plate being passed around symbolizes the hypocrisy and disconnection between religious institutions and the reality of violence and injustice. The lyrics then transition to the narrator reflecting on their own actions and moral ambiguity. They refer to themselves as a sinner and reveal that they have associated with killers, even feeding them dinner. This suggests a deep involvement in criminal activities and a disregard for the consequences. The lines "Another bullet blast, and the bodies will drop, Who shot Biggie Smalls? Who shot Tupac? Who shot two cops?" allude to real-life incidents of violence and unsolved murders in the hip-hop industry. The lyrics convey a sense of fear and unease, with the phrase "No snitchin', neighborhood watch" portraying a code of silence and mistrust in the community. The chorus expresses the personal toll the narrator has faced as a result of their involvement in the music industry. They have lost everything, their belief in the fun of rapping and the love and support they once expected. The line "Once you get in it, nothing will be the same" suggests that fame and success come at a high cost. The final lines of the song reference the underlying violent nature of society and the need to choose a burial spot in the cemetery. This stark imagery highlights the dark reality faced by many individuals living in dangerous environments. Overall, "Nothing" by Esham delves into the themes of violence, disillusionment, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of success in the music industry. It paints a grim picture of a world consumed by darkness and reflects on the personal toll taken by those involved.
