To Pimp a Butterfly
Kendrick Lamar
Released: 2015
Runtime: 1:18:51 / 16 Tracks
Genre: Experimental Hip Hop, G-funk, Jazz Rap
My Thoughts:
I think its important to hear other perspectives so to kick off Black History month I have chosen to highlight To Pimp a Butterfly by Kendrick Lamar. Regardless of musical tastes it is easy to say that Kendrick Lamar is the voice of a generation, especially for those without a voice. TPAB is a concept album following the narrative arc of Kendrick’s self-discovery and duality. Finding fame and success as a black person in a society filled with police brutality, gang violence and systemic racism. This album is best enjoyed with the volume turned up.
Track Highlights:
King Kunta
Institutionalized
How Much a Dollar Cost
About the Artist:
Kendrick Lamar is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer who rose to prominence in the early 2010s. Born on June 17, 1987, in Compton, California, as Kendrick Lamar Duckworth, he grew up in a tough neighborhood but found solace and inspiration in music.
Following the success of “good kid, m.A.A.d city,” Lamar released “To Pimp a Butterfly” in 2015, which further elevated his status in the music industry. The album received widespread critical acclaim and won numerous awards, including the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album.
This album features George Clinton, Thundercat and Snoop Dogg.
Acknowledged Influences:
- Miles Davis
- Herbie Hancock
- George Clinton
- Tupac Shakur
- Nas
- Dr. Dre
- Curtis Mayfield
Lyric Annotations:
Week 6: 2/5/2024