Lecture Notes on Kendrick Lamar's "Prayer"

Introduction

• Many great songs are leaks or unreleased tracks.
• Example: Kendrick Lamar's song "Prayer."

Kendrick Lamar's Background

• Known for teasing unreleased music.
• Fifth studio album: Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers.
• Five-year hiatus after the album Damn.
• Personal struggles influenced his music during the hiatus.

The Leak of "Prayer"

• Leaked tracks in 2020 included "Prayer," which is just under six minutes long.
• Features three verses over an Alchemist beat.
• Each verse rapped from different perspectives.

Kendrick's Mindset

• Concerns about being portrayed as the "hip-hop savior."
• References to fear of falling from grace, akin to other artists.
• Influenced the writing of "Prayer" and "The Heart Part 5."

Analysis of "Prayer"

Verse 1: Perspective of ABC (The Jackson 5) and Michael Jackson

• Opens with the date of the release of ABC: February 24, 1970.
• Discusses Michael Jackson's rise to fame and legacy.
• Highlights the conflict between Michael's stardom and personal struggles (abuse from Joe Jackson).
• Questions the impact of allegations on Michael's art and legacy.
• Closing line reflects the loss of audience connection post-Michael’s death.

Verse 2: Perspective of Martin Luther King Jr.

• Opens with the date: August 28, 1963 (I Have a Dream speech).
• Contrasts King's heroic contributions with allegations of his personal misconduct.
• Explores the duality of public figures—can we separate their contributions from personal flaws?
• Suggests public scrutiny can overshadow impactful art.

Verse 3: Kendrick's Perspective

• Shortest verse focusing on paranoia as an artist.
• Emphasizes separating an artist's body of work from their personal life.
• References historical figures (Daniel Hale Williams, Carl Benz) to question the value of their contributions despite personal flaws.
• Closing line: "sincerely yours" signals a personal touch.

Conclusion

• "Prayer" is significant for its depth and perspectives.
• Potential for future official release unclear; Kendrick's concerns about legacy and art validity remain prominent.
• Final thoughts reflect on the importance of an artist's work surviving beyond their personal missteps.

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