Section 80 Review

“I spent 23 years on this Earth, searching for answers, ‘til one day I realized I had to come up with my own,”-Kendrick Lamar.

Who is Kendrick Lamar? Formally known as K.Dot and newly proclaimed the king of LA rap, 23 year old Kendrick Lamar, a new star out of Compton, California just released his fourth body of work July 2, 2011 called Section 80. Section 80 is an album that takes more than one listening for the true meaning to become clear and concise. The lyrical prowess on this tape and the direct and indirect messages behind all of his songs are disparate. Lamar recently validated himself as being the voice behind this generations hip-hop. What a bold statement, indeed. But instead of expressing bewilderment and dissent, I agreed with acquiesce. 

  

Lamar does not rap just to rap. He raps to express different social and moral standpoints that our youth can relate to. Above all, this project glorifies discernment.

If there are any songs in particular that need to be signified, they would be “HiiiPower,” “Poe Mans Dreams (His Vice),” “A.D.H.D.,” and “F#$% Your Ethnicity.” HiiiPower was previously released before this album dropped. It was proclaimed to be more of a lifestyle and movement than just a song. HiiiPower is a way of thinking with higher expectations, and achieving richness in body and mind. Nothing less, nothing more. Poe Mans Dreams (His Vice) ft. GLC speaks on how he’s willing to start from nothing to build something great while reflecting on the environment around him. A.D.H.D talks about our generation today and the actions us young people are now taking part in that were once seen as abnormal. “My generation sippin’ cough syrup like its water. Never no pancakes in the kitchen.” Fuck Your Ethnicity is the first song on the tape. Lamar has said that he notices his fans are of all races and backgrounds. He welcomes anyone that can relate to him and understand his story, regardless of color. He is trying to do away with race as a common division between people. He also centers around the idea that informs listeners and individuals that we all go through everyday struggles, but somehow in the end, we always rise above them.

Kendrick Lamar’s motive is to allow his listeners to become aware of the world and struggles around them. Would I recommend anyone actually buy this tape? Absolutely. It’s an instant classic. Easily, I would say this album is one of the best albums of the year from a direct lyrical, emotional, and mental standpoint. This work will leave you pondering upon the question, “Is there any possible way he can outdo himself after this?” I assure you he will. This album has fulfilled and surpassed all of my expectations. I hope that it will do the same for you.

Osa Ogbebor

(@rosaparkks)