The song "My Criminal Record" by Jimmy Barnes is a deeply personal reflection on the artist's troubled family history and his own struggles. The lyrics paint a picture of a broken home, with a mother who had a broken heart and a father who had an addiction to alcohol. Barnes acknowledges that his family has a long history of problems and a record filled with troubles and mistakes. He expresses a desire to keep this record hidden, locked away in a cellar that represents his youth. This criminal record metaphorically represents the emotional baggage and challenges he has faced throughout his life. The song touches upon the feeling of being trapped by his family's history, as if having this record tied around his neck is weighing him down. He also acknowledges the inevitability of his own downfall, wondering when he will hit rock bottom, much like his father did. The lyrics suggest that despite his efforts to distance himself from his family's troubled past, the writing is on the wall and he may not be able to escape it completely. He feels marked by his family's record, always fearing that one day he will drown in its consequences. The song also includes a sense of defiance and resilience. Barnes faces accusations and judgment from others, being made to feel like a criminal or an outcast. But he refuses to let this define him or dictate his future. He openly confronts his family's flaws, but also acknowledges the love and strength that he still carries within him. Overall, "My Criminal Record" is a song that reflects Jimmy Barnes' personal journey of grappling with his family's troubled past, the weight of their mistakes, and his own struggles. It serves as a reminder of his resilience and determination to rise above his circumstances and create a brighter future for himself.
