10 Songs Defined Kendrick Lamar in the 2010s
We’re looking at the legendary status of a hip-hop rhyme savior.
Kendrick Lamar emerged as an unparalleled lyrical craftsman in the 2010s, embodying the epitome of a “rapper’s rapper” who thrives on complexity and nuance. From his early days, marked by the release of Overly Dedicated, he signaled a hunger as a force in hip-hop. His lyrical talent soon caught the eyes and ears of critics and peers alike, hinting at the transformative influence he would soon exert on hip-hop.
Kendrick’s reputation for layered storytelling and profound social commentary grew with each subsequent project. Section.80, good kid, m.A.A.d city, and To Pimp a Butterfly were cohesive narratives that explored personal and societal issues. These projects showcased a young artist adept at merging entertainment and thought-provoking art, positioning him as a touchstone for a new generation of rappers.
By the time DAMN. dropped, Kendrick had solidified his place in hip-hop and broader cultural conversations, culminating in a Pulitzer Prize for Music. This recognition attested to his uncanny ability to encapsulate the complexities of human emotion, social strife, and existential questioning into rap form. As a phare in a constantly evolving industry, his work from Overly Dedicated to DAMN. traces an arc of unyielding commitment to artistic and thematic integrity.
“The Heart, Pt. 2 (feat. Dash Snow)”
In the sprawling mosaic of Kendrick Lamar’s discography, “The Heart, Pt. 2” operates as a cornerstone, setting the thematic tone for the coming decade. A raw, unfiltered dialogue with himself and the world, the track teeters on the edge of confessional and confrontational. It’s an early indicator of Kendrick’s capacity to distill complex emotions and societal critiques into a singular musical experience. Laced with an instrumental from The Roots, the auditory experience mimics the urgency of life’s fleeting moments. Historically, the song marks the inception of the “The Heart” series, a recurring motif punctuating Kendrick’s evolving viewpoints. Its unvarnished quality remains its most striking characteristic, a glimpse into an artist’s formative years on the brink of reshaping hip-hop.
“Ignorance Is Bliss”
The song that got the Dr. Dre co-sign. Navigating through a minefield of ethical dilemmas and moral ambiguity, “Ignorance Is Bliss” turns conventional wisdom on its head. The song wrestles with the paradox of knowledge and ignorance, challenging the listener to question their presumptions. The track dissects the allures and pitfalls of life in Compton. Musically, the song leans into a mellow, almost somber instrumental, offering a counterpoint to its weighty lyrical content. The track can be viewed as a precursor to the conceptual complexity that would become a hallmark of Kendrick’s career.
“Rigamortis”
High-octane and relentless, “Rigamortis” is a cyclone of intricate rhymes and rapid-fire delivery. The jazz-infused instrumentation allows Kendrick’s lyrical acrobatics to shine. In the grand scheme of hip-hop, the track is a nod to the genre’s roots, particularly the symbiotic relationship between rap and jazz. The song also became an unapologetic claim of lyrical supremacy, a theme Kendrick would revisit across his career. From a cultural standpoint, “Rigamortis” echoes the improvisational spirit of jazz. Its audacity cements its place as an indomitable force in Kendrick’s catalog.
“Swimming Pools (Drank)”
A radio hit with deceptive depth, “Swimming Pools (Drank)” dives into the convoluted relationship between intoxication and social pressures. At first glance, the song appears to be a hedonistic anthem; however, the undertones of melancholy and introspection rise to the surface upon closer listening. In doing so, Kendrick flips the script on glorifying alcohol in popular culture. Its chart-topping success underscores the public’s appetite for complexity, even within the confines of mainstream hip-hop. This surface-level interpretation overlooks the intricacies woven into its composition.
“Money Trees (feat. Jay Rock)”
A siren song for the modern age, “Money Trees,” explores the dichotomy of ambition and ethical compromise. Its dream-like production contrasts sharply with its gritty narrative, reflecting the discord between aspiration and reality. The track dissects capitalism’s seductive allure, particularly within marginalized communities. Moreover, it introduces the refrain “Ya bish,” a colloquial term emblematic of the often complicated relationships described in Kendrick’s storytelling. In the pantheon of Kendrick’s works, “Money Trees” holds its ground as an analytical yet soul-stirring piece.
“Sing About Me, I’m Dying of Thirst”
An epic in its own right, “Sing About Me, I’m Dying of Thirst” is a magnum opus of narrative storytelling. The song is segmented into multiple perspectives, each providing a unique lens through which to view life, death, and legacy. This multifaceted approach allows Kendrick to explore many issues, from gang violence to the struggles of sex workers. Musically, the sparse instrumentation lends gravity to the lyrics, allowing them to breathe and resonate. From a sociopolitical perspective, the song elevates the voices of those often silenced, providing a platform for stories seldom heard in mainstream media. While the length and complexity of the track might deter casual listeners, its ambitious scope serves as its greatest asset.
“The Blacker the Berry”
A scathing indictment of internal and external racism, “The Blacker the Berry” is an incendiary work of protest art. Kendrick employs an aggressive tone, forcing the listener to confront uncomfortable truths about systemic discrimination. The song amplifies the rage and sorrow felt by countless individuals, acting as a sonic rallying cry. Musically, the cacophonous beat and aggressive delivery add urgency to the message. The song has garnered acclaim and criticism for its unflinching look at racial dynamics, especially within the African-American community.
“Alright”
An anthem of hope amid despair, “Alright” became a soundtrack for activism and social justice movements. The song’s optimistic chorus provided solace during civil unrest, especially in the wake of police brutality incidents. Despite its buoyant musicality, the track doesn’t hesitate to address the harsh realities that necessitate its message of hope becoming an anthem for the Black Lives Matter movement. The song’s rise to cultural prominence demonstrates the power of music to galvanize communities and catalyze change.
“DNA.”
An unyielding examination of identity, “DNA.” tackled complexities of heritage, nature, and nurture. The two-part structure of the song allows Kendrick to juxtapose personal reflection with societal observation. By interrogating his genetic makeup, Kendrick broadens the scope to comment on the African-American experience. The piece incorporates a sample from FOX News, turning criticism into a narrative component.
“FEAR.”
A triptych of anxieties across different life stages, “FEAR.” is a poignant finale to this curated list. The song meticulously outlines fears from childhood, adolescence, and adulthood, painting a haunting yet relatable picture of human vulnerability. Its introspective tone departs from the extroverted bravado commonly associated with hip-hop. From a historical standpoint, “FEAR.” taps into a lineage of African-American literature and music that grapples with existential dread. The unfiltered honesty remains its most compelling attribute.