Released: 2024
Sheesh! “Meet The Grahams” might be one of the most incendiary tracks in Kendrick Lamar’s catalog, no play-play, it’s a rapid fire at Drake’s (aka Aubrey Graham) entire family. K-Dot’s pen game is on trial, examining himself and the industry at large, targeting a mysterious figure called “Adonis” who potentially represents all individuals in hip-hop who fail to uphold a certain moral code. The lyrics are heavy with introspection, confrontation, and societal critiques.
The track kicks off, “Dear, Adonis, I’m sorry that that man is your father, let me be honest.” Kendrick is making a bold statement right here, criticizing Adonis’ father for his lack of responsibility, and instantly introduces the father-son dynamics that pervade the song. This isn’t just some petty beef, Kung Fu Kenny is checkin’ folks on some deep-rooted generational stuff.
Then he drops, “Never code-switch, whether right or wrong, you a Black man.” This is a shout-out to staying authentic, to owning your identity, no matter the situation – a common theme in Kendrick’s work. He’s hitting out at those who suppress their roots for societal acceptance, implying this lack of authenticity could be costing us our soul.
When it comes to Sandra, Dennis, and the baby girl, Kendrick exposes their foibles, contributions to a manipulative cycle in the industry, and the damage they inflict. He vividly paints a picture of their harmful habits, presenting a disturbing reality of those at the top. “They be streamlinin’ victims all inside of they home and callin’ ’em tender” reiterates the exploitative tendencies of the industry, a stark warning to the listener about the darker underbelly of the glits and glamour of hip-hop.
Kendrick ain’t playing when he spits, “I’m lookin’ to shoot through any pervert that lives, keep the family safe.” He’s asserting himself as a protector, a bulwark against the perversion he sees pervading his community.
Finally, he addresses Aubrey aka Drake, considering the long-standing tension between them. “This supposed to be a good exhibition within the game But you fucked up the moment you called out my family’s name” K-Dot is making it clear, he’s stepping into the ring for a tussle.
By the end, Kendrick’s fiery address has turned into a full-blown indictment, calling out his target for a litany of wrongs, including hiding his children, body shaming, exploiting his crew members, and a host of other sins. The Compton King is setting the record straight, he’s holding folks accountable.
“Meet the Grahams” is a raw, unfiltered insight into Kendrick’s thoughts, his personal gripes, and a compelling critique on hip-hop culture today. Yo, it’s a heavy hitter, for real.
