The meaning of Dna. by Kendrick Lamar

"DNA." is a chart-topping track from Kendrick Lamar's critically acclaimed 2017 album, "DAMN.". With its thought-provoking lyrics and intricate storytelling, this song is a stark representation of Lamar's complex relationship with his racial identity and personal experiences. Riding on an aggressive yet captivating beat, "DNA." delves into Lamar's journey of self-exploration, echoing themes of race, culture, and lineage.

The song kicks off with Lamar stating, "I got royalty, got loyalty inside my DNA." Here, he introspectively acknowledges his African American heritage, proudly asserting the inherent nobility and loyalty that have been embedded into him through his lineage. These traits, he argues, are not just in his skin but in his DNA- a part of his fundamental biological makeup.

He later dives into the intricacies of his upbringing, discussing the struggles and temptations he faced growing up in Compton, a city known for its high crime rates and challenges. Through lyrics like, "Born inside the beast/My expertise checked out in second grade," Lamar depicts how his environment tried to confine him to a life of crime and violence, an experience common to many African Americans in similar circumstances.

However, what's remarkable about Lamar is his refusal to let these experiences define him negatively. Instead, throughout the song, he stays focused on his personal and professional growth. "Tell me when destruction gonna be my fate/Gonna be your fate, gonna be our faith," he raps, taking ownership and maintaining a positive outlook on his and his community's future. Lamar strongly believes that his and everyone else’s destiny is not dictated by the circumstances of birth or upbringing, but by one's choices and actions.

The stand-out component of "DNA." is undoubtedly Lamar's reflection of his identity as an African American artist, specifically in the context of the larger music industry. "See, you's a, you's a, you's a— / Your DNA an abomination," he asserts, responding to critics who often stereotype and vilify rap and hip-hop culture. Lamar fights back against these stigmas, glorifying his culture and heritage.

So, "DNA." is in essence, a homage to Kendrick Lamar’s roots, and a song of self-realization and resilience. It sheds light on the struggles and prejudices faced by African Americans, while also celebrating the authenticity, strength, and unity within the community. Concluding, Kendrick Lamar's "DNA." is a powerful anthem of heritage, resilience and identity, and indisputably one of his most euphonious offerings to the hip-hop genre.