Criminal

Song Meaning

The lyrics to "Criminal" immediately establish a defiant stance, with the speaker declaring an end to past tolerance. There's a clear shift from passively accepting "shit before" to an assertive "No more." This newfound resolve is rooted in a sense of growth, as the speaker notes being "older now, a little wiser now." The central tension arises from this pivot: a past of perceived submission versus a present commitment to authenticity and self-direction. The speaker encourages living "life free, do what makes you happy," directly contrasting with external pressures or expectations. This push for autonomy is a core emotional driver, rejecting anyone who would "tell you what to do." The most striking craft element is the redefinition of the word "criminal" itself. The speaker declares, "if caring is a crime then I'm a Criminal and my mind is a cell." This ingenious twist flips the negative connotation, transforming a term of condemnation into a badge of honor for genuine emotion. The "mind is a cell" then becomes less about confinement and more about a protected space for these valued, perhaps rebellious, thoughts. These lyrics are effective because they blend personal empowerment with a savvy, almost strategic rebellion. The lines about "broke thugs getting major label love" and questioning if it's "selling out if we just use them for their funds" reveal a cynical yet practical approach to navigating a system. Coupled with the repeated, almost militaristic call to "distract them and I will attack them," the song paints a picture of a speaker not just resisting, but actively outmaneuvering perceived adversaries with intelligence and unwavering self-belief.