Meaning of Determined - Kendrick Lamar
In Kendrick Lamar's song "Determined," the lyrics touch on themes of ambition, hard work, and perseverance. However, beneath the surface, there are deeper meanings that reveal Lamar's thoughts on success and its relationship with one's circumstances.
The song begins with a quote from self-help author Napoleon Hill, reminding us that anything is possible as long as we believe in it and work hard towards our goals. Lamar then introduces himself as a determined individual who doesn't have much but still aims for success. He asks the question, "What I gotta do in order to see success?" This highlights the importance of setting goals and having a clear path towards achieving them.
Lamar then lists out two different paths he could take to reach success - the first being that of a criminal, while the second is more conventional, as he aims to be a successful entrepreneur like Donald Trump. While this might seem extreme, it highlights the fact that sometimes, people from underprivileged backgrounds might feel like they have no other option but to resort to criminal activities in order to survive. Lamar's words also remind us that success is not always about being the best or the most talented - it often has more to do with hard work and determination.
As the song progresses, Lamar begins to question his own self-worth, as he listens to other rappers who seem to have it all figured out. He wonders if he's good enough to succeed in such a competitive industry. His girlfriend tries to reassure him, but he remains unsure of himself. This highlights the inner turmoil that many aspiring artists face - the fear of not being good enough and the constant comparison with others.
Lamar then talks about how his circumstances might have affected his chances of success. He mentions that he doesn't want to be a dealer, but in order to succeed, he might have to resort to such activities. This highlights the fact that sometimes, people from underprivileged backgrounds might not have many options available to them, and they might have to make difficult choices in order to survive.
The chorus of the song is a powerful reminder that success often comes at a cost. Lamar repeats, "Take your time, it'll come / Just stay focused and humble my son / Show and prove, prove you're the one / It's not about who's dope, it's who wants it the most." This emphasizes the fact that success is not always easy to achieve - it often requires a lot of hard work, perseverance, and sacrifice.
Overall, "Determined" is more than just a song about ambition and hard work. It touches on themes of self-worth, circumstance, and determination in the face of adversity. Lamar's words remind us that success is not always straightforward or easy to achieve, but with focus, humility, and determination, anything is possible.
The song begins with a quote from self-help author Napoleon Hill, reminding us that anything is possible as long as we believe in it and work hard towards our goals. Lamar then introduces himself as a determined individual who doesn't have much but still aims for success. He asks the question, "What I gotta do in order to see success?" This highlights the importance of setting goals and having a clear path towards achieving them.
Lamar then lists out two different paths he could take to reach success - the first being that of a criminal, while the second is more conventional, as he aims to be a successful entrepreneur like Donald Trump. While this might seem extreme, it highlights the fact that sometimes, people from underprivileged backgrounds might feel like they have no other option but to resort to criminal activities in order to survive. Lamar's words also remind us that success is not always about being the best or the most talented - it often has more to do with hard work and determination.
As the song progresses, Lamar begins to question his own self-worth, as he listens to other rappers who seem to have it all figured out. He wonders if he's good enough to succeed in such a competitive industry. His girlfriend tries to reassure him, but he remains unsure of himself. This highlights the inner turmoil that many aspiring artists face - the fear of not being good enough and the constant comparison with others.
Lamar then talks about how his circumstances might have affected his chances of success. He mentions that he doesn't want to be a dealer, but in order to succeed, he might have to resort to such activities. This highlights the fact that sometimes, people from underprivileged backgrounds might not have many options available to them, and they might have to make difficult choices in order to survive.
The chorus of the song is a powerful reminder that success often comes at a cost. Lamar repeats, "Take your time, it'll come / Just stay focused and humble my son / Show and prove, prove you're the one / It's not about who's dope, it's who wants it the most." This emphasizes the fact that success is not always easy to achieve - it often requires a lot of hard work, perseverance, and sacrifice.
Overall, "Determined" is more than just a song about ambition and hard work. It touches on themes of self-worth, circumstance, and determination in the face of adversity. Lamar's words remind us that success is not always straightforward or easy to achieve, but with focus, humility, and determination, anything is possible.
