I (Kendrick Lamar song)

“I” is a song by American rapper Kendrick Lamar, released on September 23, 2014, as the lead single from his third studio album, “To Pimp a Butterfly.” Lamar wrote the song with Rahki and mixed it with Ali. “I” won Best Rap Performance and Best Rap Song at the 57th Annual Grammy Awards.

The song begins with a sample of the Isley Brothers’ “Who’s That Lady,” which sets the tone for the overall upbeat and soulful feel of the song. The instrumental then shifts to a sample of “That Lady” by The Isley Brothers, which features a groovy baseline and brass horns. The sample brings a funk element to the track, which gives it its unique sound.

Lamar’s lyrics are a mixture of introspection, self-analysis, and self-love. The hook of the song is the repeated phrase, “I love myself,” which is a powerful statement of self-affirmation. The lyrics discuss Lamar’s internal struggles and how he is learning to love himself despite his flaws and emotional wounds. In the first verse, Lamar references his childhood in Compton, where he witnessed violence and crime.

The second verse touches on Lamar’s battles with depression and suicidal thoughts. On the song’s bridge, Lamar talks about the influence of his fans and how their support motivates him to continue making music. The final verse of the song is a sort of call to action, where Lamar challenges listeners to find self-love and embraces their flaws the same way he has embraced his.

The message of the song is universal, which is why it resonates with so many listeners. The idea of self-love can be hard to accept, especially if you have been conditioned to feel shame or guilt about yourself. The song encourages listeners to look at themselves in a positive light instead of always focusing on their shortcomings.

The song’s instrumentation is also notable. The production is a fusion of funk, neo-soul, and jazz. The use of live instruments gives the song a warm, organic feel that complements Lamar’s vocals. The horn section is highlighted throughout the track, and the groove of the baseline keeps the song’s momentum going.

“I” was a significant departure from Lamar’s previous works. It showcased his versatility both as a rapper and as a musician. The song’s uplifting message stood in stark contrast to the dark themes present on Lamar’s previous works, which often dealt with issues like police brutality and gang violence.

The song had a significant impact on fans and critics alike. It won two Grammy Awards and was praised for its message of self-love and its unique sound. The song’s influence can be seen in its use in popular culture. It has been used in commercials, movies, and television shows.

“I” was a turning point in Lamar’s career. It helped establish him as one of the most important voices in modern music. The song’s influence can be felt in contemporary hip-hop, which has seen an emphasis on introspective and introspective lyricism.

In conclusion, “I” is a timeless song that will likely continue to be relevant for years to come. The song’s message of self-love is universal and speaks to the struggles that so many people face. Its use of live instruments and fusion of genres gives the song a unique sound that sets it apart from other hip-hop tracks. “I” is an excellent example of the power of music to motivate and inspire.