Kendrick Lamar & Gunna: The Collaboration You Need To Hear

The phrase "Kendrick Lamar's use of 'gunna'" refers to a stylistic feature observed in the artist's music. It specifically highlights the frequent employment of the contracted form "gunna" (short for "going to") in his lyrics. This linguistic choice is a key element in understanding his creative approach, reflecting a particular vocal cadence and lyrical approach that distinguishes his work.

This characteristic stylistic element contributes to the unique sonic texture and lyrical delivery of the artist's work. The use of "gunna" is not merely a linguistic quirk but a significant component of his artistic voice, often associated with specific themes or rhetorical effect within his songs. Its prevalence across various albums and songs signifies its importance in characterizing Kendrick Lamar's musical identity.

Analysis of this linguistic feature provides a crucial lens through which to understand the evolution and artistic nuances of Kendrick Lamar's discography. Examining how this linguistic choice manifests in different songs and albums will be a key part of the following sections of this article. This analysis will then pave the way for a deeper exploration of the artist's wider stylistic concerns and musical development.

Kendrick Lamar's Use of "Gunna"

Examining Kendrick Lamar's use of the colloquialism "gunna" reveals key aspects of his lyrical style and thematic concerns.

• Lyrical style
• Verbal cadence
• Thematic expression
• Grammatical choice
• Rhetorical effect
• Sonic texture
• Musical identity
• Cultural context

Kendrick Lamar's consistent use of "gunna" a colloquialism for "going to" crafts a distinct lyrical texture and musical personality. Its prevalence across albums demonstrates a deliberate choice. This verbal cadence, a key part of his style, informs thematic expression, influencing how listeners perceive the artist's messages. For example, the choice of "gunna" in certain contexts might signal the imminent delivery of a powerful message, creating a specific rhetorical effect. The linguistic aspect, together with sonic texture and his deliberate choices of grammatical form, form a significant part of his overall musical identity. The cultural context, including contemporary slang, underscores the conscious connection to his audience.

1. Lyrical Style

Kendrick Lamar's lyrical style is deeply intertwined with his use of "gunna." The frequent employment of this colloquialism isn't merely a stylistic choice; it's a fundamental element shaping the overall sonic texture and lyrical delivery of his music. The consistent use of "gunna" contributes to a distinctive rhythmic cadence, which in turn influences the perceived weight and urgency of particular lines or themes. This consistent pattern, noticeable across various albums, reinforces a specific lyrical persona and approach. This deliberate incorporation creates a recognizable, almost signature element of his work.

Consider, for example, how the repetition and placement of "gunna" within verses can emphasize a sense of impending action or consequence. The colloquialism can impart a sense of immediacy, creating a specific emotional impact on the listener. Conversely, the absence of "gunna" in certain passages might introduce a different mood or lyrical emphasis. This subtle interplay underscores the significance of this linguistic choice as a tool of artistic expression within the wider framework of Lamar's lyrical style. Careful consideration of these stylistic choices allows for a deeper engagement with the underlying thematic currents and emotional landscape of his work.

Ultimately, the connection between lyrical style and the consistent use of "gunna" within Kendrick Lamar's work reveals a deliberate artistic strategy. The meticulous crafting of this linguistic element underscores the complexity of his music, showcasing how the seemingly small choices of language can significantly shape meaning and emotional impact for the listener. Analyzing this specific element within the context of his broader lyrical approach offers valuable insights into his artistry and musical development.

2. Verbal Cadence

The consistent use of "gunna" in Kendrick Lamar's music establishes a distinct verbal cadence. This cadence, characterized by the frequent employment of the colloquialism, significantly influences the overall sonic texture and lyrical delivery. The rhythmic pattern created by this stylistic choice shapes how listeners perceive the urgency, intensity, or thematic weight of particular lines or passages. This consistent pattern, noticeable throughout Lamar's discography, contributes to a recognizable sonic fingerprint, forming an integral part of his unique artistic voice.

Consider how the repetition of "gunna" within a verse can emphasize a sense of impending action or consequence. This use of the colloquialism creates a specific emotional impact on the listener, often establishing a particular atmosphere or thematic development. The choice to employ "gunna," rather than the more formal "going to," dictates the tempo and perceived immediacy of lyrical content. The verbal cadence, in this sense, functions as a crucial element in shaping the flow and emotional trajectory of the music. This understanding is fundamental in appreciating the nuances of Lamar's creative process and the profound impact his lyrical choices have on the listener's experience.

The importance of recognizing this verbal cadence lies in its capacity to illuminate the artistic strategy employed by Kendrick Lamar. Understanding how this stylistic element contributes to the overall sonic identity provides a deeper understanding of the deliberate choices made throughout his musical work. This deeper understanding enriches appreciation for the interplay between language, rhythm, and thematic development. Ultimately, recognizing the verbal cadence associated with "gunna" provides crucial insights into the artist's expressive intent and the effective techniques used to convey complex messages and emotions within a musical context.

3. Thematic Expression

Kendrick Lamar's consistent use of "gunna" significantly impacts thematic expression within his music. The colloquialism, rather than being a mere stylistic choice, serves as a crucial element in conveying specific ideas, moods, and narratives. Analyzing how "gunna" interacts with thematic material provides insights into the artist's expressive strategies and how such choices contribute to the overall impact of the music.

• Immediacy and Urgency
  

  The use of "gunna" often conveys a sense of immediacy and urgency in thematic expression. The contracted form suggests a direct progression of events, highlighting the perceived immediacy of consequences or actions related to the thematic content. Examples of this might be in songs where impending danger or change are central themes. This element contributes to the dynamic and suspenseful character of many of his compositions. The use of "gunna," rather than a more formal alternative, underscores the feeling of pressing circumstances or impending revelations in the narrative being explored.

• Cultural Context and Identity
  

  The colloquialism serves as a direct link to the cultural context of the music. Employing "gunna" connects the thematic content to contemporary experiences and perspectives, making the themes relatable to a wider audience. Examples can be found in songs where social commentary and cultural critiques are central elements. The thematic significance is amplified by the very use of this familiar, informal language, anchoring the discussion within the socio-cultural climate that the artist addresses. The inclusion of "gunna" within these contexts emphasizes the immediacy of the issues raised and how they permeate daily life.

• Relationship to Narrative Structure
  

  The placement and frequency of "gunna" within song structures can directly affect the perceived narrative trajectory. Its presence or absence can create moments of anticipation, tension, or release. This creates a specific emotional impact, affecting the way thematic material unfolds. For instance, the use of "gunna" could intensify specific lyrical passages, highlighting the culminating moments of a particular theme within a track. The careful deployment of this element helps dictate the flow and build within the thematic narratives of the music.

In conclusion, examining the relationship between thematic expression and Kendrick Lamar's use of "gunna" reveals a deliberate strategy of communication. The colloquialism functions as more than just a stylistic device; it is a critical tool for conveying the urgency, cultural relevance, and structural narrative of the thematic material. This underscores the complexity and depth of Lamar's artistic choices, which are not simply stylistic but actively contribute to the emotional and thematic impact of his music.

4. Grammatical Choice

Grammatical choices, particularly the deliberate selection of colloquialisms like "gunna" in Kendrick Lamar's music, are not arbitrary. They are integral components of his artistic identity and serve a precise purpose in his thematic expression. Lamar's consistent use of "gunna" as a replacement for the more formal "going to" is more than a stylistic quirk; it's a deliberate choice that significantly impacts the lyrical delivery and overall meaning of his music.

The impact of this grammatical choice is multifaceted. Employing "gunna" creates a distinct verbal cadence, often associated with a sense of immediacy and urgency. This contrasts with a more formal register, potentially conveying a different tone and thematic emphasis. In songs where Lamar's characters face immediate threats or confront difficult situations, the use of "gunna" reinforces the feeling of impending action or consequence. This calculated shift in grammar amplifies thematic elements and underscores the emotional impact of the music. Examples in his work, analyzed within the context of specific lyrical passages, reveal how these choices contribute to the overall mood and narrative trajectory of each song. For example, the use of "gunna" in a verse about facing personal struggle might convey a different meaning than in a verse about a historical event, highlighting Lamar's nuanced use of language.

Understanding the relationship between grammatical choice and artistic expression in this context allows for a deeper appreciation of Lamar's work. The consistent use of "gunna" isn't a random stylistic trait; it's a carefully crafted element shaping the listener's interpretation and emotional response. Further analysis into this aspect of Lamar's artistic process yields insights into how specific grammatical choices contribute to the overall sonic character and emotional resonance of his music. This approach, focusing on grammatical components in conjunction with thematic and lyrical analysis, significantly enhances comprehension of Kendrick Lamar's artistic expression. A full understanding of this nuanced approach is essential for interpreting his complex lyrical narratives accurately and comprehensively.

5. Rhetorical Effect

Kendrick Lamar's use of "gunna" possesses a significant rhetorical effect, extending beyond mere stylistic choice. Analysis of this linguistic element reveals how it functions as a deliberate tool to achieve specific communicative goals within the artist's music. The choice to use "gunna" rather than the more formal "going to" impacts the lyrical delivery, impacting the listener's perception and interpretation of the message.

• Emphasis and Urgency
  

  The colloquialism "gunna" often creates a sense of immediacy and urgency, impacting the listener's emotional response. This heightened sense of urgency is achieved through the direct and concise nature of the term. This rhetorical strategy can be observed in lyrics concerning impending danger, conflict, or pivotal moments in a narrative. By using "gunna," Lamar emphasizes the immediate action or consequence, deepening the emotional impact of the lyrical content.

• Connection to the Audience
  

  The informal nature of "gunna" fosters a direct connection with the listener. This colloquialism establishes a sense of shared experience and understanding, making the music feel more relatable and personal. By employing language familiar to the target audience, Lamar establishes a sense of community and authenticity, enhancing the persuasive effect of the message conveyed in the lyrics. This colloquial language creates a stronger bond between artist and audience.

• Intensification of Poetic Effect
  

  "Gunna" can intensify poetic effect by influencing the lyrical rhythm and flow. The shortened form can lend a sense of dynamism and energy to the verses, contrasting with more formal or measured language and enhancing the emotional impact. This effect is evident in verses where the narrative is fast-paced, showcasing a powerful emotional urgency or conveying a particular mood. By choosing to utilize this informal contraction, Lamar crafts a distinct poetic texture. It impacts the overall sonic and rhythmic quality, heightening emotional engagement for the listener.

• Establishment of Tone and Persona
  

  The consistent use of "gunna" contributes to the establishment of a specific persona and tone. This establishes a specific artistic identity. The choice of colloquial language creates a particular vibe that is distinctly Lamar's. This unique approach influences how the listener perceives the message and relates to the overall persona conveyed through the music. By using this consistent stylistic element, Lamar emphasizes a particular personality and aesthetic, impacting the interpretation of the entire body of work.

In conclusion, the rhetorical effect achieved through Kendrick Lamar's use of "gunna" extends beyond a simple stylistic choice. This linguistic element functions as a deliberate tool to evoke specific emotional responses, enhance lyrical flow, and connect with the listener on a deeper level. The deliberate use of colloquial language becomes an intrinsic part of the artistic expression, enhancing understanding and appreciation of the complexities within his work.

6. Sonic Texture

The sonic texture in Kendrick Lamar's music, particularly the consistent use of "gunna," significantly impacts the overall aesthetic. This colloquialism, used pervasively across his discography, contributes to a unique sonic fingerprint, distinguishable from other artists' styles. The rhythmic and tonal patterns created by this specific grammatical choice shape the listener's experience, affecting the perceived tempo, urgency, and emotional impact of the music. The consistent presence of "gunna" contributes to a specific sonic signature, distinguishing Lamar's work from other artists and enhancing the listener's engagement with the thematic material.

The impact of "gunna" on sonic texture is demonstrable through close analysis of various tracks. In songs where urgency and immediate action are key thematic elements, the frequent use of "gunna" enhances this sense of immediacy. The rhythmic pattern generated by the repeated colloquialism creates a palpable sonic energy, increasing tension and excitement. Conversely, in more introspective or reflective tracks, the absence or decreased frequency of "gunna" can create a contrasting sonic texture, emphasizing a more subdued atmosphere. This demonstrates Lamar's deliberate manipulation of sonic texture to complement the lyrical content and overall mood of each song. The variation in the use of "gunna" across different tracks demonstrates a strategic manipulation of sonic texture, contributing to the rich and diverse nature of Lamar's musical output.

Understanding the connection between sonic texture and Kendrick Lamar's specific use of "gunna" is crucial for appreciating the nuanced artistry of his work. This linguistic element, interwoven with other compositional choices, creates a complex and layered sonic experience. By recognizing how the sonic texture, shaped by "gunna" and other stylistic features, interacts with the thematic material, listeners gain a deeper understanding of Lamar's artistic intent and the multifaceted nature of his musical expression. This nuanced understanding elevates appreciation for the intentional strategies employed by the artist to create a distinct and impactful listening experience.

7. Musical Identity

Kendrick Lamar's musical identity is deeply interwoven with stylistic choices like the frequent use of "gunna." This element, analyzed within the context of the artist's complete body of work, provides significant insight into the development and evolution of his unique artistic persona. Examining this specific feature illuminates key facets of his creative approach and its influence on his overall aesthetic.

• Consistent Stylistic Approach
  

  The consistent use of "gunna" across Kendrick Lamar's albums establishes a recognizable stylistic approach. This consistent pattern creates a familiar, identifiable sonic texture. The recurring feature functions as a touchstone, helping listeners connect with the artist's unique vocal cadence and the overall emotional atmosphere of his music. Examples demonstrating this consistency are evident in tracks across his discography, consistently reinforcing this stylistic feature as a fundamental part of his musical expression.

• Colloquial Language and Cultural Relevance
  

  The employment of "gunna" speaks to a deliberate connection with contemporary culture and language. The use of colloquialisms, rather than formal diction, positions Lamar as a direct and engaging voice. This choice in language makes the thematic content of his music relatable to a wider audience by reflecting the everyday language commonly employed within the cultural sphere he addresses. This establishes a significant element of relatability and authenticity in his work.

• Development of a Distinctive Persona
  

  The deliberate utilization of "gunna" contributes to the development of a specific artistic persona, setting Lamar apart from other musical artists. This consistent linguistic element shapes the perception of his lyrical delivery and narrative approach. Analysis of how this feature manifests across his career allows an understanding of its role in establishing a recognizable and impactful musical character. Examining specific instances, including thematic shifts and stylistic changes, reveals how this linguistic choice reinforces particular artistic expressions within different contexts within his discography.

• Influence on Sonic Identity
  

  The consistent use of "gunna" directly shapes the overall sonic identity of Kendrick Lamar's music. It influences the rhythmic structure, the emotional impact, and the perceived atmosphere of the music. This influence extends beyond the individual song, fostering a recognizable and consistent experience for the listener across his expansive body of work. This creates a unified sonic world for the listener, contributing to a stronger sense of musical identity.

Ultimately, the analysis of "gunna" within Kendrick Lamar's music provides a crucial lens through which to understand the development and complexity of his artistic identity. It reveals a deliberate and nuanced artistic strategy used to connect with audiences, establish a distinct persona, and shape the overall sonic landscape of his music. Further exploration of similar stylistic choices across his discography will provide a more comprehensive understanding of his artistic evolution and its impact on shaping his musical identity.

8. Cultural Context

Kendrick Lamar's use of "gunna" is intrinsically linked to the cultural context of his music. Analyzing this connection reveals how the colloquialism functions as a powerful tool, reflecting specific sociolinguistic trends and impacting the overall meaning and reception of his work. This exploration examines the interplay between language, cultural norms, and artistic expression in Lamar's music.

• Contemporary Slang and Linguistic Evolution
  

  Lamar's consistent use of "gunna" directly reflects contemporary slang and the evolution of spoken American English. The colloquialism, widely understood by his target audience, contributes to the relatability and accessibility of his music. The term demonstrates a conscious engagement with contemporary linguistic trends, making the music both relevant and resonant with a specific generational group. This use highlights the ever-shifting nature of language and the artist's commitment to representing contemporary speech patterns.

• Socioeconomic and Racial Influences
  

  The cultural context surrounding Lamar's music is deeply rooted in socioeconomic and racial dynamics. His use of "gunna" and other colloquialisms frequently underscores the realities and experiences often felt within specific communities. This connection between language and social experience underscores a conscious attempt to represent and highlight the complexities of these realities within the thematic framework of his music. The use of this language can also be seen as an affirmation of cultural identity, creating a sense of collective belonging and solidarity.

• Regional Variations and Linguistic Diversity
  

  While "gunna" is prevalent in contemporary American English, its usage can vary regionally. Understanding regional variations within the wider context of American dialects provides critical insight into how Lamar's linguistic choices enhance the cultural nuances of his music. The artist's conscious integration of regional dialects can be seen as an intentional attempt to capture specific regional or ethnic identities within the broader scope of his themes, enriching the artistic tapestry of his work. The recognition of this variation further contextualizes how language influences the artist's intent, impacting both the thematic focus and perceived cultural reach of his compositions.

• Impact on Musical Genre and Identity
  

  Lamar's use of "gunna" plays a role in shaping the overall identity of his musical genre. The specific use of this term within the context of hip-hop and its broader cultural landscape reflects a conscious positioning within a specific genre. This choice resonates with existing hip-hop conventions, signaling a shared cultural understanding. By employing language that is deeply embedded within this cultural context, Lamar creates a more immediate and resonant connection with his audience. It serves as a subtle but significant marker within the genre, aligning his work with a specific cultural heritage. This is crucial to appreciating the deeper layer of cultural communication, where the selection of colloquialisms becomes an important factor in how the musical work is received and positioned within its specific genre.

In conclusion, the cultural context surrounding Kendrick Lamar's use of "gunna" is not incidental but fundamental to understanding the deeper meaning and impact of his music. The consistent employment of colloquialisms such as "gunna" effectively anchors the thematic material in contemporary sociocultural realities, enhancing the musical experience and establishing a potent form of cultural communication for a broader audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common inquiries regarding Kendrick Lamar's use of the colloquialism "gunna." The questions and answers aim to clarify aspects of this stylistic element within his music and its significance.

Question 1: What is the significance of Kendrick Lamar's use of "gunna"?

Answer 1: The consistent use of "gunna" (short for "going to") is a deliberate stylistic choice shaping the overall sonic and lyrical texture of Lamar's music. It reflects a conscious effort to connect with a contemporary audience through familiar language, creating a sense of immediacy and urgency in thematic expressions. The colloquialism reinforces a distinct musical persona and impacts the rhythmic flow and perceived emotional weight of specific lines.

Question 2: How does this use of "gunna" influence the rhetorical effect of the music?

Answer 2: The informal nature of "gunna" contributes to a direct connection with listeners. It enhances the feeling of immediacy and urgency in the lyrical content, potentially intensifying the poetic effect of verses, especially those dealing with themes of conflict or impending change. This specific choice in language creates a direct, almost visceral, impact on the listener.

Question 3: What is the relationship between "gunna" and thematic development in Lamar's work?

Answer 3: The presence or absence of "gunna" within a song can significantly impact the listener's perception of thematic progression. Frequent use can suggest a fast-paced narrative or a sense of urgency within the thematic material being presented, while the avoidance of the colloquialism may signify different emotional tones or thematic shifts. The element functions as a tool in expressing the moods and intensities associated with specific themes.

Question 4: Is the use of "gunna" a mere stylistic choice, or does it carry additional meaning?

Answer 4: The use of "gunna" isn't simply a stylistic choice; it is deeply intertwined with the cultural context and thematic development within Kendrick Lamar's work. It represents a deliberate connection with contemporary language and cultural norms, making the lyrical content more relatable and resonant with the audience. This demonstrates a conscious effort to connect on a deeper level and to use language relevant to the subject matter addressed.

Question 5: How does the use of "gunna" contribute to the sonic texture of Lamar's music?

Answer 5: The recurring use of "gunna" establishes a particular sonic texture in Lamar's music, contributing to a distinct and recognizable aesthetic. The rhythmic pattern created by this colloquialism affects the perceived tempo, urgency, and overall emotional impact of the music, functioning as an essential element of the artist's sonic signature.

Question 6: How does "gunna" contribute to Lamar's overall musical identity?

Answer 6: The use of "gunna" forms an integral part of Kendrick Lamar's unique sonic and lyrical identity. It reflects a specific approach to artistic expression that connects with a contemporary audience, establishing a distinctive persona and recognizable stylistic trademark that is pervasive throughout his body of work.

Understanding Kendrick Lamar's use of "gunna" is crucial for fully appreciating the complexity and nuances of his creative expression. The colloquialism functions as a powerful tool, interwoven with thematic development, rhythmic structure, and cultural context. Its significance lies not just in its presence, but also in its absence, enabling a deeper and more nuanced engagement with the artist's unique musical persona.

The following section will delve into specific examples across different albums and tracks.

Tips for Analyzing Kendrick Lamar's Use of "Gunna"

This section offers practical guidance for understanding and interpreting Kendrick Lamar's consistent use of the colloquialism "gunna." Careful consideration of these tips enhances comprehension of the artist's lyrical choices and artistic intentions.

Tip 1: Contextual Understanding. Isolate instances of "gunna" within specific lyrical passages. Analyze the surrounding lines, the overall theme of the song, and the broader context of the album. This holistic approach uncovers the specific rhetorical effect and thematic function of "gunna" in different situations. For example, if "gunna" is used in a verse depicting imminent danger, the effect differs from its use in a verse focused on personal reflection. The thematic nuance provides a crucial understanding of Lamar's intended message.

Tip 2: Rhythmic Analysis. Examine the rhythmic patterns created by the use of "gunna." Assess how the contraction affects the flow and tempo of the lyrics. Consider how the shortened form aligns with the beat and the overall sonic texture of the music. This analysis underscores the deliberate use of language to create specific sonic effects, emphasizing the urgency, intensity, or mood of the track. Understanding the rhythmic interplay with "gunna" is vital in interpreting the intended impact on the listener.

Tip 3: Compare and Contrast. Contrast instances where "gunna" is used with instances where it is not. Identify the stylistic differences in tempo, emotional tone, and thematic focus. This comparison reveals the potential significance of the artist's linguistic choices in conveying specific messages or contrasting perspectives. The contrasting usage allows for a more comprehensive understanding of how the absence or presence of the term affects the overall effect of the lyrics and music.

Tip 4: Cultural Contextualization. Evaluate how the use of "gunna" reflects the cultural landscape surrounding Kendrick Lamar's work. Investigate the sociolinguistic trends and contemporary slang usage prevalent during the creation and release of the album. Connecting "gunna" to contemporary expressions offers a more insightful understanding of how the colloquialism works to connect with the intended audience and emphasize the cultural relevance of the artist's work. Historical analysis can illuminate the impact of social shifts reflected in the artist's language.

Tip 5: Intertextual Analysis. Explore how the use of "gunna" interacts with other stylistic elements within Kendrick Lamar's music. Consider how this element aligns with, or deviates from, the overall thematic development, lyrical style, or sonic texture of the artist's catalog. This approach provides deeper insights into the artist's creative strategy and the evolution of his unique style. Studying the broader context illuminates the intention behind this choice within the artist's artistic evolution.

Following these tips allows for a more informed, detailed, and insightful analysis of Kendrick Lamar's use of "gunna." This methodical approach strengthens the understanding of the nuanced impact on the music, lyrics, and overall artistic vision. This provides a framework for further engagement with the artist's work, allowing for a richer comprehension of his craft.

The subsequent sections of this article will implement these strategies in a close reading of specific albums and tracks, providing illustrative examples.

Conclusion

This analysis of Kendrick Lamar's consistent use of "gunna" reveals a profound understanding of linguistic artistry within the context of modern hip-hop. The colloquialism transcends a mere stylistic choice, functioning as a crucial element in shaping sonic texture, thematic development, and the overall artistic identity of the artist. Lamar's deployment of "gunna" consistently establishes a unique cadence and tone, impacting the perceived urgency, emotional intensity, and cultural resonance of the music. The analysis underscores how this seemingly simple linguistic feature is meticulously integrated into the creative process, affecting the rhythmic structure, the listener's emotional engagement, and the interpretation of thematic material. Further, the examination of "gunna" within the context of his discography reveals a deliberate strategy of language manipulation, offering a nuanced perspective on the artist's evolving relationship with language and his distinctive artistic voice.

The significance of this study lies in its ability to illuminate the intricate ways in which language, particularly colloquialisms, contributes to artistic expression. By understanding the strategic deployment of "gunna," the analysis provides valuable insight into the mechanisms through which Kendrick Lamar crafts a distinct musical identity and conveys complex messages. Further research could explore how similar linguistic choices in other genres and by other artists contribute to their unique expressive styles. This understanding deepens the appreciation of the artist's creative choices, enriching the overall experience of the listener and potentially informing future analyses of artistic language within diverse musical contexts. A critical understanding of these nuanced applications allows for a deeper engagement with the artistry and cultural impact of Kendrick Lamar's work.