Joe Budden's song "Calm Down" is a deeply personal and introspective track in which he reflects on his troubled past and the impact it had on his relationship with his mother. The song delves into Joe's struggles with drug addiction, violence, and how he ultimately found redemption and healing. In the song, Joe acknowledges that his mother, despite her own struggles with addiction, tried to guide him and tell him to calm down and make better choices. He recalls feeling lost and wanting to fit in with something or someone, leading him down a destructive path. Joe also addresses the blame he placed on his mother for his own mistakes, believing that if she and his father hadn't used drugs, he would have turned out differently. He confronts the anger he felt towards his mother, including the times she chased him with a knife, but also acknowledges that he was just like his father. As the song progresses, Joe describes the turning point in his life when he realized he needed to change. He talks about how his mother's prayers and support eventually paid off, leading him to turn his life around and find peace and sobriety. He expresses gratitude for his mother's love and guidance and acknowledges that he couldn't have made it without her. Overall, "Calm Down" is a song that explores Joe Budden's journey from a troubled past to a place of healing and redemption. It serves as a tribute to his mother and a reminder of the power of love and support in overcoming life's challenges.
