HUMBLE – Kendrick Lamar
Released on March 30, 2017, Kendrick Lamar’s “HUMBLE.” quickly became a cultural phenomenon, showcasing the rapper’s unparalleled lyrical prowess and his ability to merge personal introspection with broader social commentary. The track, produced by Mike Will Made-It, has not only earned critical acclaim but also cemented Lamar’s reputation as one of the most influential artists of his generation. “HUMBLE.” is a testament to Lamar’s artistic vision and his commitment to addressing contemporary issues through his music.
Musical Composition and Production
“HUMBLE.” is a masterclass in modern hip-hop production, blending minimalist beats with powerful, introspective lyrics. The track’s production, spearheaded by Mike Will Made-It, features a sparse, yet dynamic beat that contrasts sharply with the lush soundscapes typical of mainstream hip-hop. The instrumental is anchored by a deep, resonant bassline and a driving, syncopated rhythm that creates a compelling backdrop for Lamar’s vocals.
The song opens with a distinctive piano riff that sets a reflective tone before transitioning into a trap-influenced beat. The use of vocal chops and distorted effects adds a layer of complexity to the track, creating a sound that is both contemporary and innovative. The production’s minimalism allows Lamar’s lyrics to take center stage, highlighting his vocal delivery and lyrical dexterity.
Lyrical Content and Themes
The lyrics of “HUMBLE.” are a striking blend of self-assertion and self-awareness. Kendrick Lamar uses the song to explore themes of humility, authenticity, and the contradictions within the hip-hop industry. The chorus, with its repeated declaration of “Be humble,” serves as both a directive to himself and a critique of the arrogance often displayed by other artists.
Lamar’s verses delve into a range of topics, including his rise to fame, the pressures of success, and the expectations placed upon him by fans and critics. The line “I’m so fuckin’ sick and tired of the Photoshop” critiques the artificiality and inauthenticity that can pervade the media and entertainment industries. This sentiment is further explored in the verse “I’m so fuckin’ sick and tired of the Photoshop / Show me somethin’ natural like Afro on Richard Pryor,” where Lamar contrasts the artificial with the genuine, advocating for authenticity over superficiality.
The song also addresses Lamar’s own status and influence within the industry. The line “I’m the realest one after all” reflects his confidence in his own artistry and his commitment to staying true to himself, despite the pressures to conform. This duality of humility and self-assurance is a central theme of the track, showcasing Lamar’s ability to balance introspection with a strong sense of identity.
Music Video and Visuals
The music video for “HUMBLE.,” directed by Dave Meyers and the Little Homies, is a visually striking and thought-provoking piece that complements the song’s themes. The video features a series of vivid and symbolic imagery that explores concepts of power, humility, and materialism.
The video opens with a scene of Lamar sitting in a church, dressed in priestly robes, which immediately sets a tone of reverence and introspection. Throughout the video, Lamar is depicted in various settings, including a confessional booth and a series of surreal, high-fashion scenarios. The visuals are characterized by their bold use of color and striking contrasts, which enhance the song’s message and create a memorable visual experience.
One of the most notable scenes features Lamar and a group of women dressed in identical outfits, which mirrors the song’s critique of conformity and artificiality. The video also includes references to religious iconography and cultural symbols, adding layers of meaning to the song’s exploration of humility and authenticity.
Reception and Impact
Upon its release, “HUMBLE.” was met with widespread acclaim from both critics and fans. The song’s innovative production, compelling lyrics, and powerful delivery earned it a prominent place in the hip-hop landscape. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was praised for its ability to combine introspective content with mainstream appeal.
The track’s impact extends beyond its commercial success. “HUMBLE.” has been widely regarded as a significant statement on the state of contemporary hip-hop and the pressures faced by artists in the industry. The song’s exploration of themes such as authenticity, self-awareness, and the critique of materialism has resonated with listeners and sparked discussions about the values and priorities within the music industry.
Kendrick Lamar’s performance of “HUMBLE.” at the 2018 Grammy Awards further cemented the song’s status as a cultural touchstone. The live performance was praised for its energy and creativity, showcasing Lamar’s ability to deliver powerful and impactful messages through his music.
Legacy and Influence
“HUMBLE.” remains a defining track in Kendrick Lamar’s discography and a testament to his artistic vision. The song’s innovative production, incisive lyrics, and striking visuals have left a lasting impression on the music industry and continue to influence contemporary artists.
Lamar’s ability to blend personal introspection with broader social commentary has set a new standard for hip-hop and has solidified his position as one of the genre’s leading voices. “HUMBLE.” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity and self-awareness in an industry often driven by superficiality and materialism.
In conclusion, Kendrick Lamar’s “HUMBLE.” is a modern classic that showcases the artist’s lyrical prowess and his commitment to addressing important themes through his music. The song’s innovative production, thought-provoking lyrics, and impactful visuals have made it a standout track in the hip-hop genre and a significant contribution to contemporary music. “HUMBLE.” continues to resonate with listeners and remains a powerful statement on the values and challenges of the modern era.
Nobody pray for me
It been that day for me
Way
Yeah, yeah!
Ayy, I remember syrup sandwiches and crime allowances
Finesse on ’em with some counterfeits, but now I’m countin’ this
Parmesan where my accountant lives, in fact, I’m downin’ this
D’USSÉ with my boo bae tastes like Kool-Aid for the analysts
Girl, I can buy yo’ ass the world with my paystub
I know that it’s good, won’t you sit it on my taste bluds?
I get way too petty once you let me do the extras
Pull up on your block, then break it down, we playin’ Tetris
A.m. to the p.m., p.m. to the a.m., funk
Eat up your per diem, you just gotta hate ’em, funk
If I quit your BM, I still ride Mercedes, funk
If I quit this season, I still be the greatest, funk
My left stroke just went viral
Right stroke put lil’ baby in a spiral
Soprano C, we like to keep it on a high note
It’s levels to it, you and I know
Tell ’em, be humble (hol’ up)
Sit down (hol’ up, hol’ up, lil’, hol’ up)
Be humble (hol’ up)
Sit down (hol’ up, sit down, lil’, sit down, lil’)
Be humble (hol’ up, hol’ up)
Sit down (hol’ up, hol’ up, lil’, hol’ up)
Be humble (hol’ up)
Sit down (hol’ up, hol’ up, hol’ up)
Be humble (hol’ up, hol’ up)
Sit down (hol’ up, hol’ up, lil’, hol’ up, lil’)
Be humble (hol’ up)
Sit down (hol’ up, sit down, lil’, sit down, lil’)
Be humble (hol’ up, hol’ up)
Sit down (hol’ up, hol’ up, lil’, hol’ up)
Be humble (hol’ up)
Sit down (hol’ up, hol’ up, hol’ up, hol’ up)
Who dat -a thinkin’ that he frontin’ on Man-Man? (Man-Man)
Get the f- off my stage, I’m the Sandman (Sandman)
Get the f- off my (ayy), that ain’t right
I make a play blowing up your whole life
I’m so, so sick and tired of the Photoshop
Show me somethin’ natural like afro on Richard Pryor
Show me somethin’ natural, I wanna feel some stretch marks
Still I take you down right on your mama couch in Polo socks
Ayy, this shit way too crazy, ayy, you do not amaze me, ayy
I blew cool from AC, ayy, Obama just paged me, ayy
I don’t fabricate it, ayy, most of y’all be fakin’, ayy
I stay modest ’bout it, ayy, she elaborate it, ayy
This that Grey Poupon, that Evian, that TED Talk, ayy
Watch my soul speak, you let the meds talk, ayy
If I kill a, uhm, it won’t be the alcohol, ayy
I’m the realest, uhm, after all
Tell ’em, be humble (hol’ up)
Sit down (hol’ up, hol’ up, lil’)
Be humble (hol’ up)
Sit down (hol’ up, sit down, lil’, sit down, lil’)
Tell ’em sit down (hol’ up, hol’ up, lil’ hol’ up)
Be humble (hol’ up)
Sit down (hol’ up, hol’ up, hol’ up, hol’ up)
Be humble (hol’ up, hol’ up)
Sit down (hol’ up, hol’ up, lil’ hol’ up, lil’)
Be humble (hol’ up)
Sit down (hol’ up, sit down, lil’, sit down, lil’)
Be humble (hol’ up, hol’ up)
Sit down (hol’ up, hol’ up, lil’ hol’ up)
Be humble (hol’ up, hol’ up)
Sit down (hol’ up, hol’ up, hol’ up)