Joey Badass My Town Meaning and Review

Joey Bada$$ Declares War on the West

Joey Bada$$ returns with fire and fury on "My Town," a hard-hitting diss track aimed at West Coast rivals, most notably Ray Vaughn. The track, produced by Pro Era’s own Kirk Knight, is a direct continuation of his lyrical feud that started with “THE FINALS.” With its aggressive tone and triumphant flair, “My Town” feels like a victory lap draped in warning shots. From the first few bars, Joey makes it clear: this is not just music, it's battle strategy.

A Verbal Onslaught With Precision

Joey’s verse is an exhibition of calculated lyricism and raw confidence. He drops punchlines with sniper-like precision, dismantling his opponents bar for bar. Lines like “Triple entendre, don’t even ask me how I packed him out” and “Your thirst for attention is sad” display his ability to blend layered wordplay with brutal jabs. Joey even digs into specific controversies, referencing Ray Vaughn's interview on VladTV, flipping it into a diss that's both personal and public. The cadence and flow are relentless, as Joey rides the beat like a veteran in his element.

Loaded Lux Elevates the Smoke

Adding fuel to the flame is battle rap legend Loaded Lux, who delivers a dense and theatrical verse that brings a whole new energy to the track. Lux’s performance is cerebral, mixing cryptic punchlines with street wisdom. He bridges the East and West in a way that feels like a final warning to anyone willing to step into the arena. “East to the West, that’s crossroads for you and never we intersect” sums up the territorial stakes of the song. Lux and Joey’s chemistry on the mic feels effortless, showcasing a mutual respect rooted in lyrical warfare.

"My Town" as a Statement of Pride

Beyond the diss, "My Town" is a celebration of Joey’s roots. The outro emphasizes his New York pride, shouting out legends like Biggie and Jay-Z while painting himself as the latest guardian of the city’s lyrical legacy. “You now f***in’ with the BK Batman, Harlem assassin” serves as both an introduction and a warning. The production, with its gritty boom-bap foundation, adds to the celebratory aggression that defines the track, making it feel like both a street anthem and a lyrical decapitation.

The Bar Has Been Raised

With “My Town,” Joey Bada$$ not only reclaims his spot in the center of New York’s rap scene but also asserts dominance over a growing East-West feud. The track is sharp, unforgiving, and brilliantly constructed. It’s a return to the battle rap essence wrapped in modern polish. Joey isn’t just fighting back; he’s declaring a lyrical monarchy. Anyone looking to respond better come correct, because "My Town" sets the bar sky-high for anyone brave enough to step up.

Listen to Joey Badass My Town 

Joey Badass My Town Lyrics Meaning Explained

The meaning of “My Town” by Joey Bada$$ is a powerful exploration of pride, loyalty, and personal growth rooted deeply in his connection to Brooklyn. The song reflects the complexities of rising from humble beginnings to achieving success while staying true to one’s origins and community. Through vivid storytelling and cultural references, Joey asserts his identity not only as an individual but as a representative of his city, emphasizing the struggles, ambitions, and resilience that define both him and the place he calls home.

[Intro: Joey Bada$$]

The track opens with Kirk Knight on the beat, setting the stage. Joey immediately asserts dominance, telling everyone that they must have forgotten who he is and what he’s capable of. The repetition of “Y’all niggas done fucked up now” acts as a warning to his opponents, emphasizing that they underestimated him. The phrase “Fuck a 20v1, nigga, I take anybody” references the popular battle rap phrase popularized in the Kendrick Lamar vs. Drake battles, showing Joey’s confidence in handling any challenge regardless of numbers.

[Verse 1: Joey Bada$$]

Joey opens with “Your days is numbered like days of summer,” using a metaphor to suggest his opponents’ time is short and coming to an end, much like the fleeting nature of summer days. “Rain or shine, I'ma bring that thunder” reinforces his inevitability and power regardless of circumstances. The rhetorical question, “The question is it, me v. you or you v. Ray?” introduces ambiguity about whether the opponent is truly battling Joey or another rival (Ray Vaughn), but regardless, “these L's gettin' passed out” shows that defeat is inevitable either way.

The line “Lights off, when I black out” uses wordplay to imply that when Joey “blacks out” or goes hard, the competition is over, and it’s a metaphor for his overpowering presence. “Swervin' in the lane with me, better crash out” doubles as a warning that anyone trying to keep up will fail spectacularly, referencing “crash out” both literally (losing control) and metaphorically (losing the battle).

Calling his opponents “light weight” conveys their lack of threat, while saying he “ain’t even maxed out” implies Joey hasn’t even reached his full potential. “No matter what stage they put you on, you still assed out” mocks how his opponents fail regardless of the platform they get. The mention of “that sus shit you said on VLAD” alludes to a previous interview where the opponent’s credibility was questioned, keeping the pressure on.

Joey continues with “I would say, I'ma get on your ass, but you might like that,” a subtle jab that flips a common aggressive phrase into a taunt referencing his earlier disses that implied some opponents might be receptive to disrespect. “I'm smokin' all you niggas in the blunt, this the 'Lyt pack” uses smoking as a metaphor for domination and references “Lyt Pack,” a play on Daylyt’s name, symbolizing defeating his rivals.

The irony “for months, they told Joey to fight back” highlights how critics wanted him to respond, and now that he has, his opponents “need a crutch and an ice pack” to recover from his punchlines. “I'm silly with the upper cuts, there’s video proof” refers to a documented physical altercation, showcasing Joey’s toughness beyond rap.

Joey dismisses his foes with “Fuck y’all niggas still tweetin’ for? Get in the booth,” calling out their online posturing and emphasizing that real skill is shown in the studio. “I'm really the truth, got better off callin' a truce” suggests that his bars are so effective that his enemies should consider surrender. The command to “get the general, I'm killing his troops” is a direct attack on Kendrick Lamar, known as “The General,” and his affiliated artists, such as Ray Vaughn and Reason.

“I put the last nigga in a body bag, now I just spun back to get his dog tag” uses war imagery to signify Joey’s victories over rivals and continuing dominance. “They ain’t war ready, they more ready for Comic-Con” dismisses opponents as fake or unprepared, likening them to cosplayers rather than real fighters.

The line “I'ma get through the day fast like Ramadan” is a clever double entendre. It refers to moving swiftly through challenges, just like Muslims fast during Ramadan and break fast only at sunset, symbolizing endurance and discipline. Joey declares himself “the real bogeyman,” meaning he’s a feared and unavoidable threat in the rap game, a step above Kendrick, who has also been nicknamed the Bogeyman.

Calling out the delay of his opponents with “Fuck takin' y'all so long? You niggas seven days” implies they are slow or weak, taking an entire week to respond, further belittling their efforts. Despite all the attacks, “All 'em shots y'all took and I ain't even get grazed” confirms that none have landed effectively on him.

Joey’s “Sonnin’ y’all, Kanan ain't the only thing gettin' raised” cleverly references the character Kanan from the show Power, meaning he’s elevating his status and power beyond fictional or symbolic rivals. The “triple entendre” involving “packed him out” likely touches on both physically defeating someone, packing them out like a funeral, and wordplay around the biblical “Adam” and the forbidden fruit, continuing a theme of powerful metaphor.

“Punch lines pack a Pacquiao” compares his bars to the legendary boxer Manny Pacquiao’s powerful punches, emphasizing the impact of his rhymes. The return of “real bars” marks a resurgence of authentic lyricism, while opponents get “smoked like Black & Milds,” meaning they’re easily defeated or overshadowed.

“Bird nigga teach a man to scuffle” is a diss that plays on the opponent’s nickname “Quill” and the idea of teaching street fighting, while “I'm a gladiator, word to Russel” references the actor Russell Crowe’s role in Gladiator, symbolizing Joey’s readiness for combat. The layered references to sports figures like Russell Westbrook also underline Joey’s competitive nature.

[Verse 2: Joey Bada$$]

Joey starts this verse with the line “My town ain't changed, it's just grown a bit,” which reflects both pride and evolution. He acknowledges that while Brooklyn remains fundamentally the same, it’s matured and expanded, implying his own growth alongside it. This line establishes a connection to his roots while emphasizing progress.

The mention of “I’m out here grindin’ till my dreams manifest” conveys relentless work ethic and dedication to success, a recurring theme in his music. “Can't wait for the day that my team’s the best” not only shows ambition but also loyalty to his crew, reinforcing the importance of collective achievement over solo glory.

The phrase “Stay schemin’, get the cream” is a nod to the hustle culture—scheming as in strategizing and “cream” referencing money, popularized by Wu-Tang Clan’s classic anthem. This ties Joey’s mindset into hip-hop tradition while showing he’s playing the same game with modern ambition.

He then raps “Enemies be plotting, but they lost the vision,” painting a picture of rivals who are blinded by envy or distraction, unable to see the bigger picture. This line critiques the shortsightedness of haters and contrasts with his own clarity and focus.

“I’m on my mission, heavy is the crown I’m sittin’ in,” uses the metaphor of a heavy crown to describe the burdens and responsibilities that come with success and leadership, reflecting maturity and self-awareness. This suggests that being on top isn’t just glamorous; it requires endurance and resilience.

Joey’s phrase “Brooklyn’s finest, tell ‘em bring their best” doubles as both a boast and a challenge to competitors. It asserts that he represents the highest standard in his city and dares others to rise to his level, reinforcing his competitive edge.

The line “Respect the struggle, it’s the source of my stories” reveals that his lyrics are rooted in real-life hardship and experience. This honesty gives depth to his bravado, showing that his confidence is grounded in genuine struggle rather than empty boasts.

When Joey says “From the stoop sessions to sold-out shows,” he traces his journey from humble beginnings—rapping on stoops in his neighborhood—to achieving mainstream success with large audiences. This progression is a common hip-hop narrative emphasizing perseverance.

The lyric “Keep my circle tight, loyalty’s the code” highlights the value he places on trust and close relationships, signaling that despite growth and fame, he remains connected to those who have been true to him. Loyalty is a cornerstone of his identity.

Joey reflects on the darker side of success with “They want the glory, but not the pain that it brings,” pointing out how many desire fame without understanding the sacrifices involved. This is a critique of those who only see the surface of celebrity.

His verse closes with “I’m just a product of my environment,” which grounds his entire narrative in his upbringing. It’s a reminder that his identity, struggles, and art are shaped by where he comes from, adding authenticity and context to the braggadocio.

The repeated reference to “my town” throughout the verse ties the personal to the collective, symbolizing that Joey’s story is not just his own but intertwined with the culture and life of Brooklyn.

[Bridge / Chorus]

The hook “My town, my rules, my pride” serves as a mantra that encapsulates the song’s central themes—ownership, authority, and pride in his origins. It’s an assertion of control over his environment and legacy.

The repetition here reinforces the anthem-like quality of the track, making it both a personal statement and a communal rally cry for anyone from his city or similar backgrounds.

Joey Badass My Town Meaning

Overall, “My Town” balances aggressive battle rap energy with reflective storytelling. Joey Bada$$ uses vivid metaphors, cultural references, and personal anecdotes to establish himself as a dominant figure while honoring his roots and the complexities of his journey. The lyrics’ layered meanings—ranging from street-level grit to larger existential themes—demonstrate his growth as an artist and his commitment to representing his city with authenticity.

Joey Badass My Town Lyrics

[Intro: Joey Bada$$]

(Kirk on the beat)

These niggas must've forgot, man

Ayo, y'all nigga must've forgot, man (New York City)

Ha

Y'all niggas done fucked up now, man (You are now rockin')

Know I'm sayin', are you stupid, are you dumb? (With Joey Bada$$)

Y'all niggas thought this was, man? (Yeah)

Nigga, fuck a 20v1, nigga, I take anybody (Ayo)

Take all y'all niggas, man (Grr)

Y'all niggas want? (Badmon)

[Verse 1: Joey Bada$$]

Look, your days is numbered like days of summer (Uh-huh)

Rain or shine, I'ma bring that thunder

You talkin' like I can't see light, yeah, okay

The question is it, me v. you or you v. Ray?

Either way these L's gettin' passed out

Lights off, when I black out

Swervin' in the lane with me, better crash out

You niggas light weight, I swear I ain't even maxed out

No matter what stage they put you on, you still assed out (Ha-ha)

Your thirst for attention is sad

Nothing you could say could take away that sus shit you said on VLAD (Ayo)

I would say, I'ma get on your ass, but you might like that (Ayo)

I'm smokin' all you niggas in the blunt, this the 'Lyt pack

The irony for months, they told Joey to fight back

Now, every punch line, they need a crutch and a ice pack

I'm silly with the upper cuts, theres video proof (Facts)

Fuck y'all niggas still tweetin' for? Get in the booth

I'm really the truth, got better off callin' a truce

Better yet, get the general, I'm killing his troops (Grrt)

I put the last nigga in a body bag

Now I just spun back to get his dog tag (Grrt)

Thought I told y'all, niggas ain't fuckin' with me, rhyme for rhyme

They ain't war ready, they more ready for Comic-Con (Haha)

Who want it with the rap phenomenon? Take a number, fall in line

I'ma get through the day fast like Ramadan

I'm the real bogeyman, y'all niggas should be afraid

Fuck takin' y'all so long? You niggas seven days

All 'em shots y'all took and I ain't even get grazed

Sonnin' y'all, Kanan ain't the only thing gettin' raised

Triple entendre, don't even ask me how I packed him out

Punch lines pack a Pacquiao (Boom-bow)

Tell 'em real bars is back in style (Bang)

And y'all niggas gettin' smoked like Black & Milds, chill

I heard the streets call you "Quill"

No wonder why your feathers ruffle

Bird nigga teach a man to scuffle (Teach 'em)

I'm a gladiator, word to Russel

Flexing on you niggas and I ain't even had to move had to move a single—

The kid from West Brook' got the whole West cooked (Uh-huh)

They jabs weak now, heard they workin' on they best hook (Uh-huh)

Look, Ray Vaughn was so last week

Now, I'm hearing shit about some nigga named "Ass Cheek"

Who wanna be the next victim?

How many Top Dawgs will it take to sick 'em? (I'm sick)

Tryna take a bite out the apple, it's just forbidden (Ha)

I'ma break them down 'til the atom, this split 'em, when I hit 'em

With the finisher, eyes on the prize, hand on my fire, don't make me pull it sir

Better be wise

'Cause if it would occur, I'm dottin' T's and cross your I's like Whitaker

The plot is now thicker than Vivica Fox is (Uh-huh)

I'm killin' ya, really the villain, I'm back and restoring the feeling

Y'all niggas is really the fillings

Nothin' but my childrens, these flows could break ceilings, knock buildings down

Told y'all niggas "I'm back," I know you feel it now

And that was cute making it seem like you predicted my bars

When in reality you heard my freestyle since March

I'm calling your bluff, you wanna see me 'cause you runnin' from Lux

[Verse 2: Loaded Lux, Joey Bada$$ & Both]

When niggas who say they want power, ghost the script (That's right)

Post the the battle, you don't commit

But what I can do is put it on wax, you know it's lit, hold up, nigga

This bitch skateboardin' and doing tricks (Uh-huh)

Oh, I'm a shoo-in, I was just at Jordan with the kickflips (Nigga)

What we doing? East to the West, that's crossroads for you and never we intersect (Woo)

Line for line and hashtag it (Uh-huh)

This ain't 'bout good kids or badasses (Damn)

It's when punks who talk like they want it, don't have at its

It's for the palace, pour the chalice, I'm a king, you a challenger

This light work and my aura on Aurora Borealis

Ignore the challenge, hype me up, nigga, I want all the value

Cut it out, 'cause for the record we ain't talking songs and albums or performing ballads just [?]

Or rhetorical talent, get swiped, at me, ain't valid

Can't chase 'em, so bank on 'em to come and get that check

Then he puts it all in the balance to fall over flat

Tried to climb the mountain and he broke his back

LA strips, players and six-fours with [lift?] chambers, how you switch up?

You ain't hit us like mama, the whips raised in

My slip hangin' a [?], [Raymon?] the kitchen, don't miss

Thing in position, her kid came in here sniffing, I'm cookin though

This troll nigga fakin, making window shop payments

I'm serious, I'm a mannequin show 'em, displaying

And he gon catch a fit he can't hang with

Tee Grizzley, I'm big gaming, the Knicks head coach, I'm putting pain in

You been on the ropes (Woo)

That's why you wear that ski mask, careers on a slope (Huh)

Your shit playin' freeze tag, you been going for broke

End game, Joey out here lightin' you up

Niggas playin' with your name

I'm just sayin'

[Bridge: Joey Bada$$]

Shit, they thought it was a game, man

Shit, catch me court side, Knicks game, man

Huh, I ain't playin', man (Ha)

Yeah, that's right, look (That's right)

[Outro: Joey Bada$$]

This the home of the 9/11, the place of a lost choppers (Yeah)

We still bangin', nigga, we ain't never lost power

You now fuckin' with the BK Batman, Harlem assasain

Line 'em up, we toe-tagging, nigga

Uh, welcome to New York City (Yeah)

Yeah, welcome to New York City (Yeah)

Uh, I'm from New York City

That's right, I'm from New York City, nigga

Uh (This what New York City sound like)

Respect that ho

Yeah, really like that

I'm really like that (Facts)

Fuck you niggas thought, man?

(Man, the Harlem assassin)

What happenin'?

From the birthplace of Michael Jordan

The home of Biggie Smalls, nigga

The home of H-O-V, nigga

Stay in your lane

Find somethin' safe to play with, this ain't a game

(Kirk on the beat)