Kendrick Lamar's track “PRIDE” from the critically acclaimed DAMN album is a deep introspective journey that explores the complex battle between his personal ideals and his actions. The song opens with a slow, haunting beat that immediately sets a reflective tone, complemented by Kendrick’s use of vocal effects that alternate between high and low pitches. This manipulation of his voice is a deliberate choice, emphasizing the duality and internal conflict that the track is built upon. The slow, warbling introduction paired with these effects sets a contemplative mood that persists throughout the song, signaling that this is not a track of braggadocio but rather one of self-examination.
Themes of Pride and Humility
Lyrically, “PRIDE” delves into the religious and moral themes that run through DAMN., as Kendrick contemplates the concept of pride—often regarded as the most dangerous of the seven deadly sins. He reflects on his own pride, which manifests in his desire for worldly success and recognition as one of the greatest rappers alive, and how this pride conflicts with his aspirations to live humbly. Kendrick cleverly intersperses biblical references, like Proverbs 11:2 (“When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom”), to anchor the song’s exploration of his inner turmoil. The contrast between humility and pride becomes a focal point, drawing the listener into Kendrick's moral dilemma.
Contrast with "HUMBLE."
The instrumental backing of "PRIDE" is soft-spoken, almost dreamlike, serving as a sharp contrast to the booming, assertive beat of its counterpart, “HUMBLE.” While "HUMBLE." champions self-assertion and outward confidence, "PRIDE" is about self-awareness and internal conflict. This contrast between the two tracks reflects the paradox within Kendrick's psyche—on one hand, he understands the value of humility, but on the other, he grapples with the pride that comes with his success. The beats of both tracks serve as metaphors for their respective themes, showcasing Kendrick's ability to use every element of a song to support his narrative.
Introspection and Self-Awareness
The lyrics themselves are filled with introspection as Kendrick questions his motivations and actions, admitting that he often prioritizes his pride over love and empathy. In his first verse, Kendrick expresses the difficulty in choosing between "happiness or flashiness" and acknowledges the emotional detachment he feels as a result of his own pride. This self-awareness, however, doesn’t necessarily lead to change, as he admits he may still continue to make the same mistakes. The chorus, with Steve Lacy's soulful contribution, echoes Kendrick's internal struggle—he wasn't taught to share or to care, but he acknowledges the desire to do so in another life, showcasing the regret and tension that underscore the song.
Kendirck Lamar Pride Review
In “PRIDE,” Kendrick Lamar offers a nuanced portrayal of human imperfection, particularly in the form of pride, and how it affects not only his personal relationships but also his ability to fully embrace humility. The track’s haunting soundscape, combined with its layered lyrical content, invites listeners to reflect on their own moral dilemmas and the internal battles they face. It is a standout track on DAMN., not for its aggressiveness, but for its vulnerability, further solidifying Kendrick's reputation as one of the most introspective and thought-provoking artists of his generation.
Listen to Kendrick Lamar Pride
Kendrick Lamar Pride Lyrics Meaning Explained
The meaning of PRIDE by Kendrick Lamar is a profound exploration of the internal battle between love and pride, two forces that shape human behavior and relationships. Through introspective lyrics and emotional delivery, Kendrick delves into the destructive nature of pride, portraying it as a force that can overshadow genuine love and empathy, ultimately leading to self-doubt, isolation, and pain. The song reflects on personal flaws, societal pressures, and the struggle to balance ambition with vulnerability, illustrating how pride can both empower and trap individuals in their own egos. In this track, Kendrick invites listeners to confront their own contradictions and the impact of pride on their lives.
Introduction
The song begins with the haunting refrain of Bēkon, setting the tone for the track: "Love's gonna get you killed, but pride's gonna be the death of you and you and me." These lines introduce the central theme of the song, contrasting love and pride. While love may lead to danger and loss, Kendrick suggests that pride is even more destructive, cutting deeper into one's spirit and relationships.
The Internal Conflict
In the chorus, Steve Lacy and Kendrick Lamar sing, "Me, I wasn't taught to share, but care / In another life, I surely was there." Here, Kendrick reflects on the emotional conflict he feels—while he may have not learned to be selfless and share love, there is a deep care within him that contrasts with his upbringing. The idea of "another life" suggests that in a different world, Kendrick might have been more nurturing and open to love and vulnerability.
Materialism and Self-Reflection
The first verse delves deeper into Kendrick's internal struggles. He describes a "hell-raising" persona that chases material possessions and temporary thrills, as he questions, "Happiness or flashiness? How do you serve the question?" This reflects Kendrick's battle between seeking happiness and indulging in outward appearances, questioning what truly matters in life. He continues, "In a perfect world, I would be perfect, world," acknowledging his imperfections and his inability to fully trust people, thus placing his faith in his music and lyrics. The line "I put my faith in these lyrics, hoping I make a band" reveals his desire to succeed through his art, rather than through superficial validation.
Emotional Detachment
Kendrick admits, "I understand I ain't perfect, I probably won't come around," signaling a sense of resignation and awareness of his flaws. He further acknowledges his past behavior, saying, "Last time I ain't give a fuck, I still feel the same now," indicating his persistent detachment and coldness, perhaps due to pride or emotional numbness. This is reinforced with, "My feelings might go numb, you're dealin' with cold thumb," a metaphor for his emotional detachment. He expresses a willingness to sacrifice his comfort to show empathy, "I'm willing to give up a leg and arm to show empathy from."
Questioning His Past Actions
In the post-chorus, Kendrick reflects, "Maybe I wasn't there," as he questions his past actions and presence in the lives of others. This refrain suggests self-doubt, possibly examining moments where he might have been absent or failed to offer support when needed.
The Desire for Perfection and Coldness
The second verse touches on a deeper exploration of Kendrick's thoughts on a "perfect world." He envisions a scenario where he is less insensitive, stating, "Now, in a perfect world, I probably won't be insensitive," while also acknowledging the coldness of his current state, "Cold as December but never remember what winter did." This further illustrates his internal conflict and emotional disconnect. He speaks of the human tendency to blame others for mistakes, as seen in, "I wouldn't blame you for mistakes I made or the bed I laid." Kendrick admits that he often points fingers, using criticism as a form of self-justification, "Seems like I point the finger just to make a point nowadays."
Contradictions in Relationships
Kendrick describes the environment around him, saying, "Smiles and cold stares, the temperature goes there," highlighting the contradictions and tensions that exist within human relationships. He also reflects on his identity and cultural heritage, stating, "Indigenous disposition, feel like we belong here." This line signifies Kendrick's pride in his roots and his belief that he has a rightful place in the world despite the obstacles he faces.
Societal Struggles and Isolation
Kendrick then reflects on societal issues, saying, "I know the walls, they can listen, I wish they could talk back," referencing the barriers and racial divisions that exist. He expresses a sense of isolation and frustration with these societal structures, as well as the recurring cycle of hurt, "The hurt becomes repetition, the love almost lost that." The "walls" may symbolize the systemic discrimination and struggles faced by marginalized communities, particularly in the context of race.
The Destructive Nature of Pride
Continuing with the theme of pride, Kendrick states, "Sick venom in men and women overcome with pride." This line points to how pride manifests in both men and women, infecting their hearts and minds. He acknowledges that a perfect world would be free from such corruption, yet, he concludes, "A perfect world is never perfect, only filled with lies." This reflects his understanding that human nature is flawed, and perfection is an illusion.
Vision of a Better World
Kendrick further critiques the world by expressing how societal barriers, such as race, perpetuate inequality: "Race barriers make inferior of you and I." This highlights the structural issues that continue to divide people and create feelings of inferiority. However, he dreams of a better world, saying, "In a perfect world, I'll choose faith over riches / I'll choose work over bitches, I'll make schools out of prison." These lines reveal Kendrick's desire for a world where spiritual values, hard work, and education are prioritized over material wealth and superficial pursuits. He even envisions uniting religions, "I'll take all the religions and put 'em all in one service," aiming to show the commonality in all faiths and challenge the divisions created by them.
Outro and Ending
The song ends with the repetition of the chorus, reinforcing Kendrick’s personal reflection on care, sharing, and the emotional struggles of his life. His journey through the lyrics paints a picture of a man torn between pride and love, internal conflict, and the aspiration for a perfect world that is constantly thwarted by the imperfections of human nature.
"Pride" by Kendrick Lamar is a complex exploration of human contradictions—between love and pride, perfection and imperfection, faith and materialism. The song invites listeners to reflect on their own struggles with these themes and consider how pride, while seemingly empowering, can ultimately be the death of one’s spirit.
Kendrick Lamar Pride Lyrics
[Intro: Bēkon]
Love's gonna get you killed
But pride's gonna be the death of you and you and me
And you and you and you and me
And you and you and you and me
And you and you and you and me and—
[Chorus: Steve Lacy & Kendrick Lamar]
Me, I wasn't taught to share, but care
In another life, I surely was there
Me, I wasn't taught to share, but care
I care, I care
[Verse 1: Kendrick Lamar]
Hell-raising, wheel-chasing, new worldly possessions
Flesh-making, spirit-breaking, which one would you lessen?
The better part, the human heart, you love 'em or dissect 'em
Happiness or flashiness? How do you serve the question?
See, in a perfect world, I would be perfect, world
I don't trust people enough beyond they surface, world
I don't love people enough to put my faith in man
I put my faith in these lyrics, hoping I make a band
I understand I ain't perfect, I probably won't come around
This time I might put you down
Last time I ain't give a fuck, I still feel the same now
My feelings might go numb, you're dealin' with cold thumb
I'm willin' to give up a leg and arm to show empathy from
Pity parties and functions of you and yours
A perfect world, you probably live another 24
I can't fake humble just 'cause your ass is insecure
I can't fake humble just 'cause your ass is insecure
[Chorus: Steve Lacy & Kendrick Lamar]
Me, I wasn't taught to share, but care
In another life, I surely was there
Me, I wasn't taught to share, but care
I care, I care
[Post-Chorus: Kendrick Lamar & Anna Wise]
Maybe I wasn't there (We saw you first)
Maybe I wasn't there (I saw you first)
Maybe I wasn't there (I saw you first)
Maybe I wasn't there
[Verse 2: Kendrick Lamar]
Now, in a perfect world, I probably won't be insensitive
Cold as December but never remember what winter did
I wouldn't blame you for mistakes I made or the bed I laid
Seems like I point the finger just to make a point nowadays
Smiles and cold stares, the temperature goes there
Indigenous disposition, feel like we belong here
I know the walls, they can listen, I wish they could talk back
The hurt becomes repetition, the love almost lost that
Sick venom in men and women overcome with pride
A perfect world is never perfect, only filled with lies
Promises are broken and more resentment come alive
Race barriers make inferior of you and I
See, in a perfect world, I'll choose faith over riches
I'll choose work over bitches, I'll make schools out of prison
I'll take all the religions and put 'em all in one service
Just to tell 'em we ain't shit, but He's been perfect, world
[Chorus: Steve Lacy & Kendrick Lamar]
Me, I wasn't taught to share, but care
In another life, I surely was there
Me, I wasn't taught to share, but care
I care, I care
[Post-Chorus: Kendrick Lamar & Anna Wise]
Maybe I wasn't there (We saw you first)
Maybe I wasn't there (I saw you first)
Maybe I wasn't there (I saw you first)
Maybe I wasn't there