The lyrics describe the narrator's upbringing in the ozarks, where his grandfather taught him the family tradition of moonshining and how to protect their operation with guns and ammunition. When a sheriff tries to shut down their operation, the narrator takes matters into his own hands.

Meaning of "Runnin' Shine" by Zeke

The lyrics of "Runnin' Shine" tell a story of generational tradition and the lengths one will go to protect it. The narrator is born into a lifestyle of moonshining, learning the trade from his grandfather and inheriting the responsibility to carry it on. The use of guns and ammunition in the lyrics speaks to the dangerous nature of this illegal activity and the lengths to which the family is willing to go to protect their livelihood. The confrontation with Sheriff Coltrane represents the clash between the law and those who operate outside of it, highlighting themes of rebellion and defiance. Ultimately, the lyrics paint a picture of a life lived on the edge, where survival depends on loyalty to family and a willingness to do whatever it takes to protect their way of life.