Album Review: “good kid, m.A.A.d. city”

By Colin Udall

Kendrick Lamar’s 2012 album “good kid, m.A.A.d. city” has become one of the most influential pieces of hip-hop in America. To truly understand the impact of this collection of songs, the storyline involved in the record must be understood. The story Kendrick writes of in “good kid, m.A.A.D. city” is that of his own trials and tribulations as a young black American growing up in the streets of Compton. While Kendrick tells a personal narrative, the themes highlighted through his story connect with a broader audience. 

“Sherane a.k.a Master Splinter's Daughter” opens the album as a personal account about a girl with which Kendrick is involved. It sets up an exposition, as well as the setting to the listener.

“Backseat Freestyle” is the third track into the record. This aggressive and violently toned track reveals one of the most impactful themes in good kid: the influence of chasing money and status is something that Kendrick struggles with. 

“The Art of Peer Pressure” acts as a sequel. The track is more driven by a narrative, giving the listener a look into how a violent influence can affect young communities.

Kendrick gets caught up in a series of back and forths with Sherane, which results in a series of run-ups, violent encounters and a shootout where one of Kendrick’s friends is shot and killed.

“Sing About Me, I’m Dying Of Thirst” is divided into sections all with their unique themes and perspectives. It is arguably the most vital song on the album, as it shows Kendrick’s prevailing perspective on his escape from the harsh life in Compton. 

The musical composition of the record varies between track to track, with the tone matching that of the lyrics. The album set precedence for other records covering the subject matter, including Kendrick Lamar’s following album, “To Pimp A Butterfly”.

Further, the musical composition of the record varies between track to track, with the tone matching that of the lyrics. The album set precedence for other records covering the subject matter, including Kendrick Lamar’s following album, To Pimp A Butterfly. good kid m.A.A.d. city is an introspective look on Kendrick Lamar’s own life growing up in the rough of Compton, filled to its brim with themes applicable to many young black Americans. Kendrick seamlessly parallels his album as a personal narrative to big picture ideas that transcend his own life. The tone and rhythm of each track encapsulates the anger, tragedy, and hardship faced by Kendrick and other victims of ruthless upbringing in systemically impoverished areas of America.