Kendrick Lamar’s albums should be made into plays

-Unknown

I agree.

After Section.80 and good kid, m.A.A.d city, we were pretty much itching for a new album from Kendrick Lamar. And he solemnly delivered.

Kendrick popped onto the scene in 2011 with Section.80. With songs like “Hiiipower” and “ADHD,” Kendrick topped the charts with his introspective story-telling rap.

Kendrick’s 3rd album gives a profound look into black life in America, racism, and every day struggles while chronicling his own personal ones.

With songs like “For Free?,” “Alright,” “Complexion (A Zulu Love),”and “The Blacker the Berry” Lamar touches on pressing issues in the black community.

Songs that focus on lighter themes like “King Kunta,” “These Walls,” and “You Ain’t Gotta Lie (Momma Said)” brings a fun nostalgia that reminds me of good kid, m.A.A.d city.

Lamar also dives into his own personal battles with songs like “u”, and “For Sale (Interlude).”

Throughout the album a big theme is Lucy; Lucy is a presence that haunts Kendrick throughout his youth, drawing him in with promises of money and happiness. Infer what you will.

Kendrick ends the album with “Mortal Man,” a song that contains an interview with Tupac where he asks the questions. And he finishes the poem that’s been present at the end of most of the songs.

“I remember you was conflicted

Misusing your influence

Sometimes I did the same

Abusing my power, full of resentment

Resentment that turned into a deep depression

Found myself screaming in the hotel room

I didn’t wanna self destruct

The evils of Lucy was all around me

So I went running for answers

Until I came home…”

It’s a refreshing and inspiring album.

9/10