The song "Dream On" by Joell Ortiz is a rap track where the artist expresses his love for rapping and his determination to succeed in the industry. The lyrics showcase his lyrical skills and his confidence in his abilities. In the first verse, Joell Ortiz talks about how some people consider his rapping as a casual hobby ("shit backpacking") while he sees it as his passion. He mentions his talent for wordplay and his ability to captivate listeners with his skillful delivery. Joell emphasizes his dedication to his craft and his willingness to push boundaries and experiment with different styles. He contrasts himself with mainstream rappers, stating that he is more like the Fat Boys and Heavy D, referring to old-school hip-hop artists who were known for their unique styles and larger physiques. Joell recalls his early days of freestyling in parks and showcases his patience and commitment to creating his album as a means of making a statement. The chorus samples various statements about Joell Ortiz's return and his skill as an emcee. The samples highlight his talent, reputation, and his commitment to delivering impactful performances through his music. In the second verse, Joell Ortiz addresses other rappers who try to avoid confrontation with him and compares them to ballerinas tip-toeing around him. He asserts that he is not one to be messed with and illustrates his prowess by describing imaginary scenarios where he easily defeats numerous opponents. The reference to "Dalmatians" implies that they would be scattered around the area after encountering him. The second chorus reiterates the return and talent of Joell Ortiz, emphasizing his unique presence in the New York rap scene. In the third verse, Joell Ortiz boasts about his lyrical ability and his ability to captivate listeners. He mentions delivering powerful performances that can be felt through speakers, similar to the energy of a club. He references his attire, sweatpants and sneakers, to reflect his casual demeanor and dedication to his craft rather than conforming to mainstream trends. Joell also asserts his cleverness as a lyricist, noting that his true intentions and strategies remain hidden from others. He describes himself as a leader in the rap game, continuously improving his skills and delivering better flows. Overall, "Dream On" serves as a declaration of Joell Ortiz's dedication and talent as a rapper. The song showcases his confidence, determination, and his refusal to conform to mainstream expectations, highlighting his unique style and artistic vision.
