Single: i
Artist: Kendrick Lamar
Released: September 23, 2014
After releasing single artwork for “i” about a week ago (no Bobby Shmurda), Kendrick Lamar drops the greatly anticipated single showcasing a anthem for love of self.
The Rahki produced single samples the Isley Brothers “Who’s that Lady”, giving the track a nice acoustic, uplifting, funky feel. “i” begins with a pastor preaching about the young Compton lyricist in highest regards:
“We got a young brother to stand for something! We got a young brother that believe in the all of us! Brother Kendrick Lamar! He’s not a rapper, he’s a writer, he’s an author! And if you read between the lines, we’ll learn how to love one another! But you can’t do that…I said, you can’t do that—without loving yourself first.”
K.Dot subtly opens up about trials and tribulations, among them, mentioning going to war with himself and battling depression. Although Kendrick depicts a war outside no one is safe from, he still takes a optimistic stand- “The strong in me, I still smile.”
“i” is an empowering testimonial track from the TDE conglomerate, who’s message to the world is to love thyself, one another, and that your life is too precious to throw to waste (in all the different aspects of this phrase).
The cover art of the single had me predicting that this track would be about peace on the streets, but seems as though Kendrick is seeing the world through different eyes and is now thinking global not local.
I see this track going viral to great level like Pharrell’s “Happy”, by the sound and content on the track it seems as though that is the intent- to touch the masses, but I guess we just have to sit back and watch how much of an impact the 27 year old makes with this one.
Make sure you guys take a listen to “i” up above. Enjoy!
– Stace Fresh
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