In the song "Overkill" by Joe Budden, the lyrics depict the artist's determination and ambition to succeed in the music industry. He expresses his passion for rapping and his confident attitude towards his abilities. The song begins with Joe Budden declaring that he is fully dedicated to his craft and is constantly working hard to achieve greatness. He refers to himself as "this kid on his grind" and asserts that he is the one to find if greatness is what the listener is seeking. Joe Budden describes his lyrical skills, comparing rap to fishing without a hook. He claims that his raps are like tackling a big fish, demonstrating his ability to capture the attention of his audience. He confidently states that his written lyrics sound like he is fishing for a massive whale, emphasizing his superiority as a rapper. The artist mentions his determination to excel and sell his music, contrasting himself with those who are not as successful in the industry. He critiques other rappers who prioritize popularity and chasing trends, rather than focusing on their own skills and creativity. Joe Budden then asserts his unique style by combining elements of karate and gunplay, implying that he is not afraid to confront and overpower his opponents both mentally and physically. He dismisses those who conform to the norms of the music industry, claiming to be one of the few remaining artists from his hometown of Jersey City who still embodies the raw energy and intensity of rapping. In the second verse, Joe Budden reflects on his come-up in the music industry, recalling his past struggles and the choices he had to make. He mentions the allure of financial gain and the dangers of getting involved in illegal activities like drug dealing. Despite all the temptations, he states that he remained sober and focused on his goals, occasionally resorting to self-medication. Joe Budden acknowledges that he is not well-liked by other rappers, but he takes pride in being different. He implies that his distinct style and authenticity make him a target for envy and resentment. He also criticizes the fixed nature of the music industry, comparing it to a rigged game and referencing Tim Donaghy, a former NBA referee involved in a betting scandal. The artist describes his extravagant lifestyle, but he acknowledges the hardships and challenges that come with success. He asserts his superiority over his peers by emphasizing that he continues to thrive while others are struggling or have hit rock bottom. Toward the end of the song, Joe Budden describes himself as a strong and resilient individual, willing to confront any obstacles. He references the late comedian George Carlin, suggesting that things can quickly turn serious and no longer be a laughing matter. Joe Budden expresses his desire for financial success, stating that he only wants a fair portion of the wealth generated by his work. He questions why he would consider other rappers legitimate when their primary focus is recording music without achieving significant success. Lastly, he concludes the song by confidently asserting his status as the king of New Jersey, emphasizing his dedication, talent, and influence in the rap game.
