Kendrick Lamar is in an old school G-funk state-of-mind genius in the track, “King Kunta,” from the highly praised album, To Pimp A Butterfly. This is an anthem for those who walk to work, catch the bus, and use all of that early direct deposit to pay for rent, food, and heat, but keep the faith regardless. Aspiring artists working a 9 to 5 job, contemplating schemes and plans to make dreams a reality should believe in their dreams, no matter how long it takes. Take notes from the rapper as he “got the yams,” (money, power, and influence) from “taking no losses.” Lamar’s line, “N**** where were you when I was walking!?,” hits like a bat swing to the head from Babe Ruth.
Lamar releases some tension: “I swore I wouldn’t tell, but most of y’ all sharing bars like you got the bottom bunk in a two-man cell.” I love this line for its realness; calling these untruthful rappers out in song is a necessity, especially since he now “run the game.” Most rappers have ghost writers and use each other’s lines – one of the truest and saddest things going on in the rap industry today. I believe some rappers’ careers just ended on that line alone. Musically, surely James Brown would dig this record for the production, but also because of the intelligent message for the people.
The production is impressive in its approach. It is worthy of winning every Grammy Awards given at the 2016 telecast. What makes this a track worthy of any award is the way the music moves throughout the duration of the track. The producer deserves some accolades for his incredible background, and for Lamar to express himself lyrically like the way it started back in the ’70’s over some funk beat.
As a single, it is presently making an impact on Rhythmic radio this week. Hopefully, radio joins the movement and supports the value of “King Kunta.” This song is far from disappointing. Then again, maybe some listeners have yet to face any real conflict or appreciation of the struggle. Nevertheless, this song is monumental just like the Statue of Liberty. Overall, “King Kunta” is a stellar song because of the meaning, lyrics, and G-funk.