Released: 2024
Kendrick Lamar’s “gloria” featuring SZA delves deep into the complex and often contradictory emotions that come with a tumultuous but passionate relationship. Through vivid storytelling and introspective verses, Kendrick unravels the dynamics of a love affair that’s marked by loyalty, struggle, and self-discovery. The track is a blend of nostalgia and vulnerability, drawing listeners into the artist’s emotional landscape while painting a portrait of love that is both tender and fierce.
The song kicks off with a narrative that outlines the ‘complicated relationship’ Kendrick has with his partner. He uses colloquial terms like “Me and my bitch,” a phrase that, despite its seemingly derogatory nature, is often used in hip-hop to express endearment or a strong bond. Here, it’s more about a deeply entrenched relationship that’s both a source of empowerment and control. The relationship is not just with a woman, but perhaps metaphorically with hip-hop or a certain lifestyle itself.
Kendrick traces back to his youth, mentioning how he met her ‘off the porch as a teenager.’ This signifies the onset of his formative years, hinting at the early influences in his life. He suggests that she, this entity he loves, promised a future where he’d “right his wrongs and see paper,” indicating a journey from naivety to prosperity and enlightenment.
The chorus reveals the dreams and ambitions that came with the relationship. Kendrick reflects on youthful fantasies of ‘sellin’ narcotics, runnin’ blocks, or robbin’ banks,’ painting a picture of the chaotic but adventurous dreams that fueled his young mind. This passage underlines how these wild dreams and aspirations were closely intertwined with his emotional entanglement.
In the verses, Kendrick offers glimpses of pivotal moments in the relationship. A notable scene is when ‘granny died,’ and his partner provides solace. It’s a moment that strengthens their bond and signifies loyalty. This passage captures the enduring support and understanding that she offered, despite their rocky circumstances.
Kendrick highlights the protective nature of the relationship, where both parties are so “territorial” that it even distances him from friends. The complexity is compounded by a mix of emotions, where she urges him to ‘grow with you,’ a plea for maturity and evolution, beyond the guns and petty crimes of his past.
A notable event is Kendrick’s trip to Africa in 2014, a journey that seems symbolic of his own self-discovery. During this journey, he depicts her as a ‘passenger,’ suggesting that even during his personal growth, this relationship or entity remained with him, guiding his perception and understanding of the world around him.
Throughout the lyrics, Kendrick refers to his partner as his ‘right hand, my saint, and my sin.’ This duality encapsulates the conflicting emotions—she’s both his muse and his turmoil, a theme that’s frequently explored in his music. Such depictions make the listener ponder whether this is about a romantic partner or a metaphorical relationship with his craft or personal challenges.
The recurring lines like “Scared of forever” and “You got me ’til the end of time” echo the insecurities and fears associated with long-term commitment. Kendrick grapples with these timeless themes, reflecting the perpetual tension between his devotion and his anxiety about permanence.
In conclusion, “gloria” serves as a testament to Kendrick Lamar’s storytelling prowess. Through a mix of heartfelt reflection and intricate wordplay, he brings forth the raw and relatable struggles of a committed yet turbulent relationship. Historically, Kendrick’s work has been celebrated for its authenticity and depth, and “gloria” is no different. It’s a vivid illustration of the inner battles and love dynamics that define his artistry.
