"Certified Steppers" by JoeyAK is a Dutch rap song that showcases the artist's lifestyle and mindset as a member of a criminal organization. The lyrics depict a gritty and fast-paced world filled with violence, drugs, and street culture. Here is a breakdown of the meaning and story behind the song: The song starts with JoeyAK asserting that he is not talking about fictional or exaggerated situations (cap shit). He claims that his shooter (someone he works with) has shot at someone three times, achieving a hattrick. Initially, this person was willing to engage in violent activities, but now he refuses, similar to how Kendrick Lamar said he'd "let it pass" in a song. JoeyAK boasts about the power and influence of his team, referring to them as the "seize" (which possibly refers to Section 6, a well-known area in Amsterdam). He warns that messing with them will lead to consequences, with their associates, known as "Mocro's" (colloquial term for Moroccans), warning their enemies to surrender. JoeyAK criticizes a person who invests too much time and attention in relationships, referring to them as acting like a woman. He mocks them for giving time and attention to potential romantic partners and then offering them sex, along with his military background and possession of high-powered guns equipped with lasers. He acknowledges that his crew engages in criminal activities but asserts that it is not a formal gang. They operate in a way that resembles a dentist pulling teeth, with keys, likely referring to drugs, being distributed. He references a person who is aggressive and has an attitude, contrasting them with his own associate who stays silent (muting them). JoeyAK mentions being on the run, alluding to his involvement in illegal activities. He brags about pushing large quantities of drugs and having an arsenal comparable to famous soccer manager Arsène Wenger. He gives a shoutout to his associate C, who is a "banger" or someone known for their violent tendencies. JoeyAK questions who is scarier, implying that even though his associates may appear physically smaller, they are more dangerous due to their access to firearms. The song then transitions to a section featuring another rapper named Press. Press uses the metaphor of someone being "pressed like a button" to describe exerting pressure or intimidation over others. He warns against trying to race or compete with him, claiming that he will stop them. Press refers to oppboys (opposition boys) who will become targets if they pose a threat. He mentions having a trigger finger, which means being ready to use a firearm at any moment. Press emphasizes that his crew treats weaponry with care and precision. JoeyAK continues his verse, boasting about the special treatment his crew gives with their guns (thirty-eight caliber). He asserts that they will even find weapons for their associates when they are difficult to acquire. He mentions his own proficiency with a "magic stick" (a metaphor for a gun), declaring his mastery. He displays disdain for certain individuals, stating that he would prefer not to associate with them. He claims to have sent two individuals to confront them, suggesting that physical violence is a means of asserting power and dominance. He dismisses their significance, calling them "lil nigga's" and warns of impending consequences for anyone who challenges him. JoeyAK concludes by noting that some people have been successful, but he believes he is better. He compares his crew to the Los Angeles Lakers, famous for their basketball prowess. The song finishes with a mention of acquiring and using large quantities of drugs (liters). Overall, "Certified Steppers" portrays a world of violence, crime, and dominance. It showcases JoeyAK's confidence, the ruthlessness of his crew, and their ability to control their environment through intimidation and violence.
