Kendrick Lamar is a rapper, songwriter, and record producer widely regarded as one of the most influential artists of his generation.
Lamar’s music explores themes of race, identity, social justice, and personal struggles. Despite his fame, he maintains a relatively low public profile, choosing to keep his personal life out of the spotlight.
About the Song
“DNA” by Kendrick Lamar is a powerful song that explores his heritage and the complexities of his identity. It reflects on his roots, struggles, and how his experiences shape who he is.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | April 14, 2017 |
| Album | DAMN. |
| Writers | Kendrick Lamar, Mike Will Made-It |
| Producers | Mike Will Made-It |
“DNA” Lyrics by Kendrick Lamar
Verse 1
I got, I got, I got, I got—
Loyalty, got royalty inside my DNA
Cocaine quarter piece, got war and peace inside my DNA
I got power, poison, pain, and joy inside my DNA
I got hustle, though, ambition flow inside my DNA
I was born like this, since one like this, immaculate conception
I transform like this, perform like this, was Yeshua new weapon
I don’t contemplate, I meditate, then off your fucking head
This that put-the-kids-to-bed
This that I got, I got, I got, I got—
Realness, I just kill shit ’cause it’s in my DNA
I got millions, I got riches buildin’ in my DNA
I got dark, I got evil that rot inside my DNA
I got off, I got troublesome heart inside my DNA
I just win again, then win again, like Wimbledon, I serve
Yeah, that’s him again, the sound that engine in is like a bird
You see fireworks and Corvette tire skrrt the boulevard
I know how you work, I know just who you are
See, you’s a, you’s a, you’s a—
Bitch, your hormones prolly switch inside your DNA
Problem is, all that sucker shit inside your DNA
Daddy prolly snitched, heritage inside your DNA
Backbone don’t exist, born outside a jellyfish, I gauge
See, my pedigree most definitely don’t tolerate the front
Shit I’ve been through prolly offend you, this is Paula’s oldest son
I know murder, conviction, burners, boosters, burglars, ballers, dead Redemption, scholars, fathers dead with kids
And I wish I was fed forgiveness
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, soldier’s DNA (I’m a soldier’s DNA)
Born inside the beast, my expertise checked out in second grade
When I was nine, on sale motel, we didn’t have nowhere to stay
At twenty-nine, I’ve done so well, hit cartwheel in my estate
And I’m gon’ shine like I’m supposed to, antisocial extrovert
And excellent mean the extra work
And absentness what the fuck you heard
And pessimists never struck my nerve
And Nazareth gonna plead his case
The reason my power’s here on earth
Salute the truth, when the prophet say
Bridge: Kendrick Lamar & Geraldo Rivera
I-I got loyalty, got royalty inside my DNA
This is why I say that hip hop has done more damage to young African Americans than racism in recent years
I-I got loyalty, got royalty inside my DNA
I live a better life, I’m rollin’ several dice, fuck your life
I-I got loyalty, got royalty inside my DNA
I live a be-, fuck your life
Five, four, three, two, one
This is my heritage, all I’m inheritin’
Money and power, the mecca of marriages
Verse 2
Tell me somethin’
You motherfuckers can’t tell me nothin’
I’d rather die than to listen to you
My DNA not for imitation
Your DNA an abomination
This how it is when you in the Matrix
Dodgin’ bullets, reapin’ what you sow
And stackin’ up the footage, livin’ on the go
And sleepin’ in a villa
Sippin’ from a Grammy, walkin’ in the buildin’
Diamond in the ceilin’, marble on the floors
Beach inside the window, peekin’ out the window
Baby in the pool, godfather goals
Only Lord knows I’ve been goin’ hammer
Dodgin’ paparazzi, freakin’ through the cameras
Eat at Four Daughters, Brock wearin’ sandals
Yoga on a Monday, stretchin’ to Nirvana
Watchin’ all the snakes, curvin’ all the fakes
Phone never on, I don’t conversate
I don’t compromise, I just penetrate
Sex, money, murder, these are the breaks
These are the times, level number nine
Look up in the sky, ten is on the way
Sentence on the way, killings on the way
Motherfucker, I got winners on the way
You ain’t shit without a body on your belt
You ain’t shit without a ticket on your plate
You ain’t sick enough to pull it on yourself
You ain’t rich enough to hit the lot and skate
Tell me when destruction gonna be my fate
Gonna be your fate, gonna be our faith
Peace to the world, let it rotate
Sex, money, murder, our DNA
Kendrick Lamar Live On 2017 MTV Video Music Awards, Courtesy of MTV
Similar Songs Like “DNA” by Kendrick Lamar
Check out the songs that are quite similar to “DNA” by Kendrick Lamar:
- “HUMBLE.”: Kendrick reflects on his rise to fame, urging both himself and others to stay humble. The track highlights the dangers of ego and how success can cloud judgment, with a hard-hitting beat and confident lyrics.
- “Alright”: It is an anthem of hope and resistance, especially in the context of racial injustice. “Alright” became a symbol of empowerment, focusing on resilience in the face of adversity and struggles against systemic racism.
- “King Kunta”: The song critiques societal power structures and racism while drawing from the story of Kunta Kinte. Kendrick uses the track to reclaim control and challenge both the music industry and history’s oppression.
- “The Blacker the Berry”: It is an exploration of racial identity, systemic oppression, and personal conflict. Kendrick tackles the complexities of being Black in America.
- “Money Trees”: Reflecting on growing up in Compton, Kendrick addresses the impact of wealth and crime. The song offers a glimpse into the pursuit of success, examining the costs of ambition and survival in a tough environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Significance of the Title “DNA.”?
The title “DNA.” is significant because it symbolizes the inherited traits and cultural legacy that Kendrick Lamar believes are part of his identity. He references his “DNA” as containing elements like “power, poison, pain, and joy,”
What was the Initial Public Reaction to “DNA.”?
The initial public reaction to “DNA.” was overwhelmingly positive. Critics praised the song for its technical impressive flow.
How Does “DNA.” Fit Within the Narrative of the “DAMN.” Album?
“DNA.” fits within the narrative of DAMN. as a reflection of Kendrick Lamar’s internal struggle and his exploration of identity, culture, and societal expectations.
