Kendrick Lamar recently published an interesting video titled “Kendrick Lamar – The Heart Part 5” on Youtube. As most people know, Lamar is recognized for his rap songs that show a wide range of emotions based on issues in the black community and global issues that surface. However, in some eyes, people were not entirely satisfied with how Kendrick took this approach in his album. 

When we look at Lamar’s work in the video he recently released, we can see a clear message. Lamar is attempting to depict how Black men in America have been treated over time. If you watch the video, you’ll notice some familiar faces, including OJ Simpson, who was on trial for the murder of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, Kobe Bryant, a well-known basketball player who died in a plane crash on January 26, 2020, Will Smith, who recently received backlash for slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars, and Kanye West, a well-known rapper. All of these men are linked in some way, either positively or negatively.

Consider the scenarios of Will Smith and Oj Simpson. Because both of their situations had a role/played in politics, Lamar related these two together. It got people talking about their situations, whether they were justified or not. This demonstrates how America treats Black people in general, and Black men in particular. This video depicts the impact of these people’s actions on the black community, both positively and negatively.

However, many people, in particular, are more interested in the beats and sounds of songs than in the message. It’s not only about that; music is about expression, and that should be the priority. Consider Childish Gambino’s song “This Is America.” The beats, rhythm, and tone may appear pleasant, but Gambino sent a powerful message, much like Kendrick is attempting to do.