Song Overview and Context
Musical Style and Production
Kendrick Lamar, a name synonymous with lyrical depth and social commentary, has consistently elevated the art of hip-hop. His music is not merely entertainment; it’s an experience, a journey through complex themes of race, identity, and the human condition. Amongst his vast and influential discography, the track “What Is It (The Braids)” from the critically acclaimed album *To Pimp a Butterfly* stands out as a potent example of his genius. This song isn’t just a collection of rhymes; it’s a nuanced exploration of cultural identity, self-perception, and the often-overlooked beauty of Black heritage, all woven intricately around the central imagery of “braids.” This article delves deep into the heart of “What Is It (The Braids),” unraveling its lyrics, exploring its symbolism, and understanding its lasting impact on both music and culture.
Album Context
The sonic landscape of “What Is It (The Braids)” is a testament to Lamar’s artistic versatility. The track departs from the more aggressively charged beats of some of his other tracks on the album, opting for a more mellow and introspective soundscape. This allows the lyrics to breathe, allowing the listener to fully immerse themselves in the narrative. The production, often described as having a neo-soul influence, uses gentle melodies, subtle percussion, and a laid-back tempo, creating an atmosphere that invites contemplation. The song’s structure is fluid, feeling more like a spoken-word piece or a stream of consciousness than a traditional hip-hop track, a deliberate choice that allows for greater intimacy. The production allows the vocals to take center stage, making every word and inflection crucial. The instrumentation serves to emphasize the lyrical content without overpowering it, underscoring the emotional depth of Kendrick’s storytelling.
Initial Interpretations
*To Pimp a Butterfly*, released in 2015, is an album that challenged listeners and reshaped the landscape of contemporary music. It’s a project steeped in themes of identity, Black history, and the complexities of navigating success while remaining true to oneself. The album is more than a collection of songs; it’s a cohesive narrative that tackles heavy topics like systemic racism, the weight of expectations, and the personal struggles of fame. “What Is It (The Braids)” perfectly fits into the album’s wider narrative. It provides a crucial layer of introspective examination, and sits nestled within a broader commentary on the experiences and beauty of Black people. This song specifically explores the significance of appearance, the societal pressures faced by Black women, and the importance of self-acceptance. The album, as a whole, is a landmark in hip-hop, and “What Is It (The Braids)” acts as a vital, intricate thread in its artistic tapestry.
Analyzing the Lyrics: The “Braids” Symbolism
Literal Meaning of “Braids”
The initial reactions to “What Is It (The Braids)” were overwhelmingly positive. Critics and fans alike praised the song’s raw honesty and the nuanced way it addressed complex issues. It was lauded for its poetic lyrics and its ability to evoke powerful emotions. Many listeners found themselves deeply moved by the song’s message of self-love and the celebration of Black beauty. The track quickly became a favorite amongst fans, and it opened up conversations about identity, self-esteem, and the ways that societal beauty standards can affect individuals, particularly within the Black community. The song’s impact extended beyond the music itself, sparking discussions and inspiring self-reflection.
Deeper Layers of Symbolism
At the most immediate level, the “braids” referenced in the title and throughout the song point to a hairstyle, a common and important aspect of Black culture, especially for Black women. The hairstyle is a visual marker, a statement, a way of expressing individuality and connection to heritage. It’s a tradition, passed down through generations, representing beauty, strength, and resilience. The “braids” are more than just hair; they represent a conscious decision, an act of self-expression. But it’s more than just the surface appearance.
Digging deeper, the “braids” serve as a metaphor for a myriad of deeper meanings. They can be seen as a direct connection to one’s ancestry, a physical embodiment of the history and heritage of Black people. Braids connect to the past, embodying customs and a legacy of beauty and artistry. Braiding techniques and styles often reflect cultural origins, and represent a powerful link to one’s roots. Furthermore, “braids” represent identity itself. Hairstyles, in Black culture, are often linked to personal style, self-expression, and even social and political statements. This allows for a deep exploration of personal style and self-acceptance within society.
The song also engages with the sometimes complicated landscape of beauty standards. The lyrics touch on the pressures to conform, the internal conflicts, and the desire to find and express one’s unique identity. The braids symbolize the journey towards self-love, encouraging a rejection of external expectations and a celebration of natural beauty.
Key Lyrics Breakdown
Let’s delve into some key lyrics and unpack their significance. Lines like “The braids and the hood, the way you look is beautiful” provide a clear sense of the song’s central message. They highlight how someone is judged and looked at, and embraces this person and their beautiful being. The lyrics validate a Black woman’s natural appearance, rejecting the often-narrow beauty standards imposed by society. The line “What is it, that makes you the beauty you are?” raises questions and reflects introspection that focuses on her inner worth and the celebration of beauty that defies norms. Kendrick’s lyrical flow, almost conversational at times, enhances the intimacy. The song is designed to resonate with listeners on a personal level, inviting them to examine their own perspectives and internal struggles.
Character and Perspective
The song’s narrative unfolds as Kendrick, who often takes on the role of observer and commentator, speaks to an unnamed individual. We’re invited to consider what makes us beautiful, or what should we accept as beautiful, and the societal constraints that work against that acceptance. The song uses the personal to address the universal, allowing the listener to reflect upon their experiences and the challenges they’ve encountered. The perspective is both empathetic and reflective, inviting the listener to consider the world through a different lens.
Thematic Exploration: Key Themes in the Song
Exploring Race and Identity
“What Is It (The Braids)” tackles key themes that make it so impactful. The most prominent of these is race and identity. Kendrick uses the song to highlight the beauty and importance of Black culture. Through the imagery of braids, he celebrates Black heritage, traditions, and the various aspects of identity. The song rejects the erasure and assimilation that Black people sometimes face, and instead encourages an embrace of uniqueness and self-love. The lyrics provide an intimate celebration of Black womanhood, validating its resilience and beauty.
Societal Issues
The song further comments on broader societal issues. It acknowledges the challenges of societal expectations, the impact of beauty standards, and the pressures that individuals face in a world that frequently devalues Black bodies. It’s a response to this prejudice, encouraging self-acceptance.
Self-Reflection and Personal Journey
While “What Is It (The Braids)” is a collective observation, it also serves as a vehicle for self-reflection. Though it speaks to an individual, the themes are relatable. The song recognizes and validates the difficulties of navigating identity and self-esteem in a world that isn’t always kind. This allows the song to act as an introspective mirror for those who listen.
Comparison and Connection
Cultural Resonance
One of the most useful aspects of this song is its ability to start conversations about identity in particular. The song asks the questions that should be considered. The lyrics are delivered in a way that is both powerful and vulnerable, allowing the listener to fully understand the struggle of these things.
Conclusion
Restate the Thesis
“What Is It (The Braids)” is a powerful track. It’s a testament to Kendrick Lamar’s ability to create art that is both musically innovative and deeply meaningful. The song provides an intimate portrayal of Black womanhood, a call for self-acceptance, and a rejection of societal beauty standards.
Significance
In conclusion, “What Is It (The Braids)” is an essential piece in Kendrick Lamar’s masterful discography. The song goes far beyond surface-level interpretation and delves into the depths of identity, heritage, and self-love. This song stands as a powerful example of the power of music to start conversations, encourage self-reflection, and ultimately, to inspire. The lyrics and the symbolism have continued to resonate, proving the song’s lasting impact on hip-hop and the wider culture. The core themes of identity, culture, and acceptance make this song a timeless and important contribution to music.
