"I Wanna Know" is a song by Joe Budden featuring Stacy Barthe. In this song, Joe Budden reflects on his past relationships and the expectations he had for his life. The lyrics depict his desire to understand the true meaning of life and love. In the first verse, Joe describes how he pictured his life would be in the future. He envisioned having a stable career, successful businesses, and a supportive relationship where both partners would put aside their differences. However, he admits that he made mistakes by getting involved with women who had no self-worth. He regrets not valuing the good girls in his life and instead choosing to be with women who were not suitable for him. He acknowledges his own faults and the impact his actions had on his relationships. Additionally, Joe expresses his frustration with his own self-destructive behavior and his inability to rely on himself to find happiness. The chorus sung by Stacy Barthe expresses her own desire to understand the true nature of life and love. She is searching for answers and longing to experience a deep and meaningful connection. In the second verse, Joe reflects on the consequences of his actions and how they affected his relationship with his child. He admits that he was absent for a significant portion of his child's life and acknowledges the importance of being present and actively involved as a father. He shares his desire to teach his child about life and relationships, even though he knows his child's mother may have different views and won't necessarily agree with his teachings. Joe sees himself and his child as having a strong bond and shares the responsibility of teaching and guiding his child as a father figure. He realizes that this newfound relationship with his child has brought him fulfillment and has filled a void that he previously felt in his life. The song concludes with Joe recognizing that the love and connection he has with his child are far greater than anything he had ever imagined. He views it as something beyond himself and emphasizes its significance. The song ends with Joe acknowledging his son and expressing his love and pride in the relationship they have established. Overall, "I Wanna Know" is a reflective and introspective song by Joe Budden, exploring themes of personal growth, love, and fatherhood. It showcases Joe's journey of learning from his mistakes and finding happiness and fulfillment in unexpected places.