ANALYSIS OF ALRIGHT BY KENDRICK LAMAR MOVIE

As Pharrell repeats the line “We gon’ be alright” in the chorus, it seems as though the song has transitioned almost entirely from a description of the hardships of black people in the past to a hopeful and positive energy towards the future. The production of the beat is incredibly modern, and captures the “trap” hip-hop sound that is currently so popular in rap music (medium tempo, 808 electronic kicks, simple electronic hi-hats, electronic snare and clap sounds). Then, as Lamar’s lyrics transition from reflective and sad to hopeful and determined in the first chorus, “But if god got us, then we gon’ be alright,” the beat comes in. Lamar’s lyrics in the beginning of the song that discuss his hardships and struggles connect to those of black people for centuries, and the instrumentation pays homage to black music that has been a key part of black culture and identity throughout those struggles. A few beats into his rap, a jazzy saxophone appears on the song, which adds a very musical and almost virtuosic element to the rather simple choir melody.

ANALYSIS OF ALRIGHT BY KENDRICK LAMAR MOVIE

Then, Lamar comes in with his first line, “Alls my life I has to fight,” a reference to Oprah Winfrey’s line in the movie “The Color Purple.” The movie illustrates the struggles of black women in the South during the 1930s, and Lamar appears to be referencing his struggles to those of his ancestors many years ago. The way in which it is chopped gives it a very contemporary hip-hop sound, but the choir itself is reminiscent of old gospel. The song begins with what appears to be a chopped up sample of a choir or group of male singers. “Alright’s” instrumental track is a fantastic mix of electronic sounds and real instruments. Its captivating musical and lyrical components make it not only a hit song, but a powerful message about materialistic temptations that can lead to immoral actions, and the idea that even though being black in America requires overcoming a great deal of adversity, thriving is still possible and can happen by believing in oneself. Though I could probably discuss his entire album, I’m going to focus on an in-depth analysis of “Alright,” one of Lamar’s most popular songs off of it.

Lamar’s lyrics explore a wide variety of themes, but focus mainly on what it means to him to be a black American, as well as his attempts to handle and rationalize the money and level of success that he has achieved. Its complex rhythms and references to jazz, funk, soul, and old-hip hop, along with its phenomenally produced beats, make it a stunning mix of both old-school and contemporary hip-hop. Kendrick Lamar’s “To Pimp a Butterfly” is a musical and lyrical masterpiece.

Analysis of alright by kendrick lamar