In 2022, 5 years removed from his last studio album Kendrick released titled “DAMN”, fans were put on hiatus and somewhat left in the dark on whether Kendrick will drop or not. Suddenly on the 26th of May in 2022, he released the much anticipated “The Heart Part 5” which shook fans to the core. The song was a 5 minute preview to his upcoming album “Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers”. At this point Kendrick Lamar had built a reputation for being one of the best artists and the best storyteller of this generation. Being able to convey specific messages in a accessible way for everyone to digest is what made him stand out from the rest of the field of artists. The song along with the video shared themes of generational trauma, what people stand for, and what personal healing can be done to right your wrongs. The video shows references to Kobe Bryant, Kanye West, O.J. Simpson, Nipsey Hussle, and Jussie Smollet. Each verse referencing and parallels to the lives these famous black celebrities lived. A central theme throughout the album and song is the idea of a “savior complex” that plagues not only Kendrick but other celebrities which begs the question: How can we look to someone for guidance and counsel when the person we look to needs saving?
“Kendrick made you think about it, but he is not your savior”
Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers is a vulnerable album that makes the listener look at Kendrick different. Themes ranging from generational trauma to abuse as well as reflecting on who you are and protecting your peace. Mother I sober, Father Time, and United In Grief are records that stand out when playing this album from front to back. As the album starts early on there’s faint tap dancing along with a narration between tracks gives the feeling as if we’re in the middle of a disturbing and heavy therapy session. On the disc 2, is where album stamps it’s greatness in quality and hammers home the themes of album. Challenging himself as an artist to push boundaries to explore new ways to express himself musically and tell new stories to audience as they have patiently waited for 5 years. Multiple tracks on this disc redefines himself as a rapper/artist like Savior, Mother I Sober, and Mirror. He reiterates the point that he is not savior a couple of times on this disc and that he’s focusing on his peace rather than to bend the knee to fans and please them. Referring to the people he’s talking to as the “culture”. People wonder if Kendrick will speak up for them but what people fail to realize is that he himself is tired and seeking answers to help himself. Mirror is a great send off to close the album and reflect on what we just listened to. It’s him choosing peace and living in solace after what he has given the fans over the years, while also leaving the door open for more music to come in the coming years.
“I choose me, I’m sorry”
Oooph! Such a great point "How can we look to someone for guidance and counsel when the person we look to needs saving?" Love the messaging behind it and I'm glad he chose himself...just wish he wasn't sorry about it! Sometimes ya gotta choose yourself, improve, focus in on what ya gotta do and figure out what you need...and that'll be the catalyst.
I like the intention and thought behind your analysis of the music and keep on it!