Kendrick Lamar - tv off Lyrics
Kendrick Lamar - tv off Lyrics
All I ever wanted was a Black Grand National
Fuck being rational, give 'em what they ask for
It's not enough (Ayy)
Few solid niggas left, but it's not enough
Few bitches that'll really step, but it's not enough
Say you bigger than myself, but it's not enough (Huh)
I get on they ass, yeah, somebody gotta do it
I'll make them niggas mad, yeah, somebody gotta do it
I'll take the G-pass, shit, watch a nigga do it
Huh, we survived outside, all from the music, nigga, what?
They like, "What he on?"
It's the Alpha and Omega, bitch, welcome home
This is not a song
This a revelation, how to get a nigga gone
You need you a man, baby, I don't understand, baby
Pay your bill and make you feel protected like I can, baby
Teach you somethin' if you need correction, that's the plan, baby
Don't put your life in these weird niggas' hands, baby (Woah)
It's not enough (Ayy)
Few solid niggas left, but it's not enough
Few bitches that'll really step, but it's not enough
Say you bigger than myself, but it's not enough (Huh)
I get on they ass, yeah, somebody gotta do it
I'll make them niggas mad, yeah, somebody gotta do it
I'll take the G-pass, shit, watch a nigga do it
Huh, we survived outside, all from the music, nigga, what?
Hey, turn this TV off
Ain't with my type activities? Then don't you get involved
Hey, what, huh, how many should I send? Send 'em all
Take a risk or take a trip, you know I'm trippin' for my dog
Who you with? Couple sergeants and lieutenants for the get back
This revolution been televised, I fell through with the knick-knacks
Hey, young nigga, get your chili up, yeah, I meant that
Hey, black out if they act out, yeah, I did that
Hey, what's up, though?
I hate a bitch that's hatin' on a bitch and they both hoes
I hate a nigga hatin' on them niggas and they both broke
If you ain't coming for no chili, what you come for?
Nigga feel like he entitled 'cause he knew me since a kid
Bitch, I cut my granny off if she don't see it how I see it, hm
Got a big mouth but he lack big ideas
Send him to the moon, that's just how I feel, yellin'
It's not enough (Ayy)
Few solid niggas left, but it's not enough
Few bitches that'll really step, but it's not enough
Say you bigger than myself, but it's not enough
Huh
Huh, huh
Hey
Hey (Mustard on the beat, ho)
Mustard
Niggas actin' bad, but somebody gotta do it
Got my foot up on the gas, but somebody gotta do it
Huh, turn this TV off, turn this TV off
Huh, turn this TV off, turn this TV off
Huh, turn this TV off, turn this TV off
Huh, turn this TV off, turn this TV off
Ain't no other king in this rap thing, like siblings
Nothing but my children, one shot, they disappearin'
I'm in a city with a flag, be gettin' thrown like it was pass interference
Padlock around the building
Crash, pullin' up in unmarked truck just to play freeze tag
With a bone to pick like it was sea bass
So when I made it out, I made about fifty K from a show
Tryna show niggas the ropes before they hung from a rope
I'm prophetic, they only talk about it how I get it
Only good for saving face, seen the cosmetics
How many heads I gotta take to level my aesthetics?
Hurry up and get your muscle up, we out the plyometric
Nicarana by the lux, soon as I up the highest metric
The city just made it sweet, you could die, I bet it
They mouth get full of deceit, let these cowards tell it
Walk in New Orleans with the etiquette of L.A., yellin'
Mustard (Ah, man)
Niggas actin' bad, but somebody gotta do it
Got my foot up on the gas, but somebody gotta do it
Huh, turn this TV off, turn this TV off
Huh, turn this TV off, turn this TV off
Huh, turn this TV off, turn this TV off
Huh, turn this TV off, turn this TV off
Shit gets crazy, scary, spooky, hilarious
Crazy, scary, spooky, hilarious
Shit gets crazy, scary, spooky, hilarious
Crazy, scary, spooky, hilarious
Shit gets crazy, scary, spooky, hilarious
Crazy, scary, spooky, hilarious
Shit gets crazy, scary, spooky, hilarious
Crazy, scary, spooky, hilarious
Kendrick Lamar – "TV Off" Lyrics Analysis:
1. Song Themes and Topics:
The song "TV Off" by Kendrick Lamar tackles several interrelated themes:
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Self-empowerment: Kendrick explores themes of strength, resilience, and the need for individuals to take control of their lives and situations. He speaks about his role in influencing others, both musically and socially, emphasizing the importance of leadership and personal responsibility.
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Rebellion and resistance: Lamar's lyrics convey a sense of rebellion against societal norms, false narratives, and media manipulation. The phrase "Turn this TV off" is a rejection of external influence, particularly from the media, urging listeners to think critically and resist distractions.
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Survival in tough environments: The song highlights the struggles and challenges that come with growing up in difficult environments. Lamar references how survival comes through grit, music, and making tough decisions.
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Social and Economic Inequality: The song addresses systemic issues, such as the unequal distribution of power and wealth. Lamar speaks about people who "act entitled" but haven't earned their place, suggesting a critique of social hierarchies.
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Distrust of others: Lamar alludes to broken relationships and personal betrayal, implying that trust is rare, and loyalty is hard to find. The idea of not putting one’s life in the hands of others, especially those who are dishonest or self-serving, is present throughout the song.
2. Emotional Journey Map:
The emotional journey in the song can be divided into three primary phases:
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Phase 1: Frustration and Discontent
The initial verses reflect a feeling of frustration with the state of the world and the people around Lamar. He conveys dissatisfaction with the lack of solid, trustworthy individuals and the superficiality of fame and success. -
Phase 2: Defiance and Confidence
Lamar shifts from frustration to defiance, expressing his belief in the importance of standing firm and asserting his place in the world. He makes it clear that he’s unapologetic and unafraid of confrontation, both with society and those who challenge him. -
Phase 3: Empowerment and Resolution
The final phase brings a sense of empowerment. Lamar reaffirms his position and his approach to life, making it clear that he is doing things on his own terms. There is also a sense of closing off external distractions ("Turn this TV off") and focusing on what really matters.
3. Language and Word Choice Analysis:
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Vivid and direct language: Kendrick uses straightforward language and slang that speaks directly to his audience. This includes phrases like "somebody gotta do it" and "turn this TV off," which feel like direct commands or self-affirmations.
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Metaphors and symbolism: The song features metaphors like "a Black Grand National," symbolizing a desire for material success and power. "TV off" becomes a symbol for rejecting external influence and distractions, focusing inward instead.
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Street vernacular: Lamar’s use of street vernacular and colloquial expressions connects with his roots and the audience he addresses, portraying an authenticity and rawness in his lyrics.
4. Sectional Structure Analysis:
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Intro (Mustard’s Production): The repetitive nature of the intro, with its references to "turn this TV off," creates a rhythmic and hypnotic start that sets the tone for the rest of the song. It highlights the idea of rejection and removal of distractions.
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Verses: The verses are where Kendrick delivers most of his content, providing both introspective and observational commentary on his life, the world, and those around him. The repetition of certain lines like "It's not enough" reinforces the themes of dissatisfaction.
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Chorus: The chorus, which repeats the line "It's not enough," serves to underline the central feeling of frustration. It acts as a thematic anchor, reminding the listener of the ongoing struggle and the desire for more.
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Outro: The outro contains a mix of both motivational and contemplative statements, leaving the listener with a sense of empowerment and resolve, even in the face of external chaos.
5. Key Terms (TDK Definitions):
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"Revelation": In TDK, revelation is defined as an "event where something is made known or clear," often implying a dramatic realization. In the song, this refers to Kendrick's sudden realizations about his life and the world, sharing deep insights.
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"Chili": In TDK, chili refers to a spicy pepper, but in the song, it metaphorically represents money, influence, or power. "Get your chili up" means to improve your financial or social standing.
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"Knick-knacks": Small items or trinkets. In the song, "knick-knacks" may represent distractions or minor things in life that don't matter in the grand scheme of survival or success.
6. Notable Lines:
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"Few solid niggas left, but it's not enough": This line expresses a deep frustration with the lack of reliable people in Kendrick’s life or society at large.
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"Turn this TV off": A call for disengagement from the external distractions of the world, especially the media.
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"Got a big mouth but he lack big ideas": A criticism of people who talk a lot but don't have meaningful actions or plans, calling attention to empty rhetoric in society.
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"I hate a bitch that's hatin' on a bitch and they both hoes": A direct line targeting jealousy and petty rivalries, particularly among women, highlighting the absurdity of competition based on superficial things.
7. Overall Message and Conclusion:
"TV Off" by Kendrick Lamar conveys a message of self-reliance, empowerment, and resistance against societal pressures. Through his direct and rebellious lyrics, Kendrick addresses the challenges of navigating a world full of deceit, envy, and distractions. He encourages his listeners to focus on their own goals, reject external influences, and stay true to their principles.
The song also critiques the falsehoods perpetuated by the media and emphasizes the importance of being discerning in one’s associations, whether in personal relationships or professional ventures. Overall, the song encapsulates a journey of frustration, defiance, and eventual empowerment. Kendrick’s refusal to be bogged down by negativity and his commitment to his own path reflect a broader message of resilience in the face of adversity.
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