Kendrick Lamar is one of his generation’s most influential and critically acclaimed rappers.

Born June 17, 1987 in Compton, California, Lamar is recognized for his storytelling ability and socially conscious lyrics.

He has released several groundbreaking albums, including “good kid, m.A.A.d city,” “To Pimp a Butterfly,” and “DAMN.,” the latter of which earned him the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 2018, marking the first time a non-classical or jazz artist received this honor.

About the Song

“N95” is one of the standout tracks in which Kendrick addresses various aspects of modern society, personal reflection, and the contradictions of our world.

The title, “N95”, references the N95 masks that became ubiquitous during the COVID-19 pandemic, symbolizing themes of protection and false facades.

N95 Lyrics by Kendrick Lamar

Intro

Hello, new world, all the boys and girls
I got some true stories to tell
You’re back outside, but they still lied
Woah-oh-oh-oh (Yeah)

Verse 1

Take off the foo-foo, take off the clout chase, take off the Wi-Fi
Take off the money phone, take off the car loan, take off the flex and the white lies
Take off the weird-ass jewelry, I’ma take ten steps, then I’m taking off top five
Take off them fabricated streams and them microwave memes, it’s a real world outside (Take that shit off)
Take off your idols, take off the runway, I take off to Cairo (Take that shit off)
Take off to Saint-Tropez, five-day stay, take a quarter mil’, hell if I know (Take that shit off)
Take off the front flag, take off perception, take off the cop with the eye patch (Take that shit off)
Take off the unloyal, take off the unsure, take off decisions I lack (Take it off)
Take off the fake deep, take off the fake woke, take off the, “I’m broke, I care” (Take it off)
Take off the gossip, take off the new logic that if I’m rich, I’m rare (Take it off)
Take off the Chanel, take off the Dolce, take off the Birkin bag (Take it off)
Take all that designer bullshit off, and what do you have?

Chorus

Bitch, huh, huh, ugh
You ugly as fuck (You outta pocket)
Huh, two ATMs (Hah, hah, hah, hah)
You steppin’ or what? (You outta pocket, huh)
Who you think they talk about?
Talk about us (You outta pocket—shoot, shoot, shoot)
Who you think they copy off? (Brrt, brrt, brrt, brrt)
Copy off us (Get back in pocket)

Verse 2

The world in a panic, the women is stranded, the men on a run
The prophets abandoned, the law take advantage, the market is crashin’, the industry wants
Niggas and bitches to sleep in a box while they makin’ a mockery followin’ us
This ain’t Monopoly, watchin’ for love, this ain’t monogamy, y’all gettin’ fucked
Jumpin’ on what the hell is that? I gotta relax when I feel (Huh, facts)
All my descendants, they come in my sleep and say I am too real (Huh, facts)
I’m done with the sensitive, takin’ it personal, done with the black and the white, the wrong and the right
You hopin’ for change and clericals, I know the feelings that came with burial’s cries

Chorus

Bitch, huh, huh, ugh
You ugly as fuck (You outta pocket)
Huh, two ATMs (Hah, hah, hah, hah)
You steppin’ or what? (You outta pocket, huh)
Who you think they talk about?
Talk about us (You outta pocket—shoot, shoot, shoot)
Who you think they copy off? (Brrt, brrt, brrt, brrt)
Copy off us

Bridge

Servin’ up a look, dancin’ in a drought
Hello to the big stepper, never losin’ count
Ventin’ in the safe house
Ventin’ in the sa—

Verse 3: Kendrick Lamar & Baby Keem

Can I vent all my truth? I got nothin’ to lose, I got problems and pools, I can swim on my faith
Cameras movin’ whenever I’m movin’, the family suin’ whatever I make
Murder is stackin’, the president actin’, the government taxin’ my funds in the bank
Homies attracting the feds when I’m bracking, look at my reaction, my pupils on skates (Hold up, hold up)
Let’s think about this for a second (Let’s go)
Tell me what you would do for aesthetic (Let’s go)
Would you sell your soul on credit? (Let’s go)
Would you sell your bro for leverage? (Let’s go)
Where the hypocrites at?
What community feel they the only ones relevant? (Let’s go)
Where the hypocrites at?
What community feel they the only ones relevant? (Let’s go)

Outro

Huh, huh, ugh
You outta pocket, yeah, you outta pocket (This shit hard)
You entertain the mediocre, need to stop it (This shit hard)
You entertainin’ old friends when they toxic (This shit hard)
What your life like? Bullshit and gossip (This shit hard)
What the fuck is cancel culture, dawg?
Say what I want about you niggas, I’m like Oprah, dawg
I treat you crackers like I’m Jigga, watch, I own it all
Oh, you worried ’bout a critic? That ain’t protocol (Bitch)

Rich Spirit + N95 (Live From Saturday Night Live)

Kendrick Lamar Live: The Big Steppers Tour | Prime Video Türkiye

Similar Songs Like N95

If you like “N95” by Kendrick Lamar, try these tracks from his collection:

• “DNA“: Carries a similar strong feeling and punch as “N95.” Features bold words and solid rhythm that matches what you enjoy.
• “King Kunta“: Though more lively, it has the same direct approach that makes “N95” stand out.
• “Humble“: Known for its clear message and active delivery, this song connects with the force found in “N95.”
• “PRIDE“: While more relaxed, it offers thoughtful ideas that fans might value for its depth and careful writing.

Similar Artists Like Kendrick Lamar

And if you enjoyed Kendrick Lamar’s style and thought-provoking lyrics, you might also appreciate the music of the following artists who share similar themes, delivery, or influence in hip-hop and conscious rap:

• J. Cole
  Genre: Hip-Hop, Rap
  Notable Albums: 2014 Forest Hills Drive, KOD, The Off-Season
• Travis Scott
  Genre: Hip-Hop, Trap
  Notable Albums: Astroworld, Rodeo, Utopia
• Isaiah Rashad
  Genre: Hip-Hop, Rap
  Notable Albums: The Sun’s Tirade, The House Is Burning
• Chance the Rapper
  Genre: Hip-Hop, Rap, Gospel
  Notable Albums: Acid Rap, Coloring Book, The Big Day

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Song Called N95?

It refers to face coverings during the health crisis, which were used as a symbol for hiding one’s true self and blocking out hard truths.

What Themes are Explored in N95?

The song examines who we really are, online pressures, mind wellness, and focusing on stuff. It shows how seeing yourself clearly helps with personal change.

What is the Musical Style of N95?

A strong, lively sound mixing modern rap parts with fresh production methods, pairing deep thoughts with bold musical backing.