Introduction
The echoing bass, the assertive flow, and the raw message – these are the hallmarks of “Humble,” a cultural phenomenon that solidified Kendrick Lamar’s place as a voice of a generation. Beyond the infectious beat and unforgettable music video, lies a lyrical depth that demands attention. For Spanish speakers and those seeking to understand the nuances of the song, accessing “Humble” lyrics with a Spanish translation and subtitles unlocks a deeper appreciation for Kendrick Lamar’s artistic brilliance. This article will serve as your guide, providing the lyrics of “Humble” in English alongside a carefully crafted Spanish translation, offering insight into the song’s complex message, and exploring its lasting cultural impact. We’ll dissect the meaning behind each line, examine Kendrick’s powerful delivery, and discover why “Humble” continues to resonate with listeners worldwide. This is your portal to understanding the heart of “Humble” – a journey from English to Spanish, revealing the depths of Kendrick’s artistry.
Understanding the Genesis of “Humble”
Kendrick Lamar is more than just a musician; he’s a storyteller, a poet, and a cultural commentator. To truly grasp the power of “Humble,” it’s crucial to understand the context in which it emerged. Released in 2017, “Humble” was a lead single from his critically acclaimed and commercially successful album, *DAMN.* The album, a sonic tapestry exploring themes of faith, identity, and societal pressures, was a testament to Kendrick’s artistic vision. *DAMN.* was met with widespread acclaim, earning him a Pulitzer Prize for Music – a groundbreaking achievement for a hip-hop artist.
“Humble,” in particular, became an instant hit. Its minimalist production, courtesy of Mike WiLL Made-It, provided the perfect backdrop for Kendrick’s lyrical prowess. The song quickly topped charts worldwide, achieving multiple platinum certifications, and earning a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance. Its visual companion, the iconic music video, further cemented its place in pop culture history, showcasing Kendrick’s artistic vision and the song’s powerful message. The success of “Humble” wasn’t simply due to its catchy hook; it stemmed from the authentic, uncompromising message that resonated deeply with listeners.
Unraveling the Essence of “Humble”: Themes and Core Messages
At its core, “Humble” is a declaration against pretension and a call for authenticity. The song’s title itself encapsulates this central theme: embracing humility in a world often obsessed with ego and superficiality. Kendrick challenges the status quo, urging listeners to shed their facades and confront their own vulnerabilities.
The lyrics address several key themes. First and foremost, “Humble” is about rejecting boastfulness and embracing self-awareness. Kendrick critiques those who prioritize image over substance, encouraging listeners to remain grounded and true to themselves. Secondly, the song tackles societal pressures, including the constant need for validation and the pursuit of material possessions. Kendrick challenges these norms, advocating for a more genuine and meaningful existence. Finally, “Humble” serves as a powerful commentary on his own success, demonstrating a willingness to self-reflect and acknowledge his own flaws. He doesn’t shy away from his own imperfections but uses them as a springboard for growth and self-improvement.
Presenting the Lyrics: English Original and Spanish Translation
To experience the song fully, we present the original English lyrics alongside a Spanish translation designed to capture the spirit and meaning of the original:
English Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Sit down. Be humble.
(Ayy, sit down)
Last year, they nominated me
(Ayy, ayy)
I was in a Grammy speech, and that’s facts,
Now my watch is gon’ be the first to watch me
Run laps ’round your clique, my clique, my clique
And that’s facts, yeah
Know, I’m the one with all the hits
(You see me)
I know, it ain’t your business
(I know, I know)
I know, I know
Be humble
(Ayy)
Sit down
(Ayy)
Be humble
(Ayy)
Hol’ up, hol’ up
(Ayy)
I’m a god, I’m a god
(Ayy)
I’m a god, I’m a god
(Ayy)
(Chorus)
Be humble
(Humble)
Sit down
(Sit down)
Be humble
(Humble)
(Sit down)
Be humble
(Humble)
Sit down
(Sit down)
Be humble
(Humble)
(Verse 2)
Who you think you foolin’, fool?
(Huh?)
Who you think you foolin’?
(Huh?)
You ain’t no killer, yeah
(Huh?)
You ain’t no killer, yeah
(Huh?)
I got, I got, I got, I got
(I got)
Real niggas, I got, I got, I got, I got
(I got)
Real niggas
(Niggas)
You a groupie
(You a groupie)
I got, I got, I got, I got
(I got)
Real niggas, I got, I got, I got, I got
(I got)
Real niggas
(Niggas)
You a groupie
(You a groupie)
I remember when I met you
(You)
I remember when I met you
(You)
You was acting real stuck up
(You)
You ain’t never really been ’bout nothin’
(You)
I hate people
(You)
I hate people
(You)
I hate people
(You)
I hate people
(You)
And now you hate me too
(You)
And now you hate me too
(You)
And now you hate me too
(You)
And now you hate me too
(You)
Sit down
(Sit down)
Be humble
(Be humble)
(Chorus)
Be humble
(Humble)
Sit down
(Sit down)
Be humble
(Humble)
(Sit down)
Be humble
(Humble)
Sit down
(Sit down)
Be humble
(Humble)
(Verse 3)
My left stroke just went viral
(Viral)
Right stroke put lil’ baby in a spiral
(Spiral)
Savage, yeah, I’m out, and that’s facts
You ain’t finna get up and get that
I move like a boss, I don’t do the cha-cha
That’s a big boy way, don’t get me wrong, bruh
I got a short temper, ’cause I got a good heart
I got a short temper, but I ain’t gon’ chart
I’ma kill you like I’m 2Pac
You ain’t gon’ be seeing me, ’cause I’m with the boss
I don’t know your name, I don’t know your face
I don’t know your name, I don’t know your place
I don’t know your name, I don’t know your face
I don’t know your name, I don’t know your place
Humble
(Chorus)
Be humble
(Humble)
Sit down
(Sit down)
Be humble
(Humble)
(Sit down)
Be humble
(Humble)
Sit down
(Sit down)
Be humble
(Humble)
Spanish Translation:
(Verso 1)
Siéntate. Sé humilde.
(Ayy, siéntate)
El año pasado, me nominaron
(Ayy, ayy)
Estaba en un discurso de los Grammy, y eso es un hecho,
Ahora mi reloj va a ser el primero en verme
Dar vueltas a tu grupo, mi grupo, mi grupo
Y eso es un hecho, sí
Sabes, soy el que tiene todos los éxitos
(Me ves)
Lo sé, no es asunto tuyo
(Lo sé, lo sé)
Lo sé, lo sé
Sé humilde
(Ayy)
Siéntate
(Ayy)
Sé humilde
(Ayy)
Espera, espera
(Ayy)
Soy un dios, soy un dios
(Ayy)
Soy un dios, soy un dios
(Ayy)
(Coro)
Sé humilde
(Humilde)
Siéntate
(Siéntate)
Sé humilde
(Humilde)
(Siéntate)
Sé humilde
(Humilde)
Siéntate
(Siéntate)
Sé humilde
(Humilde)
(Verso 2)
¿A quién crees que engañas, tonto?
(¿Eh?)
¿A quién crees que engañas?
(¿Eh?)
No eres un asesino, sí
(¿Eh?)
No eres un asesino, sí
(¿Eh?)
Tengo, tengo, tengo, tengo
(Tengo)
Negros de verdad, tengo, tengo, tengo, tengo
(Tengo)
Negros de verdad
(Negros)
Eres una groupie
(Eres una groupie)
Tengo, tengo, tengo, tengo
(Tengo)
Negros de verdad, tengo, tengo, tengo, tengo
(Tengo)
Negros de verdad
(Negros)
Eres una groupie
(Eres una groupie)
Recuerdo cuando te conocí
(Tú)
Recuerdo cuando te conocí
(Tú)
Estabas actuando muy presumido
(Tú)
Realmente nunca has sido de nada
(Tú)
Odio a la gente
(Tú)
Odio a la gente
(Tú)
Odio a la gente
(Tú)
Odio a la gente
(Tú)
Y ahora tú también me odias
(Tú)
Y ahora tú también me odias
(Tú)
Y ahora tú también me odias
(Tú)
Y ahora tú también me odias
(Tú)
Siéntate
(Siéntate)
Sé humilde
(Sé humilde)
(Coro)
Sé humilde
(Humilde)
Siéntate
(Siéntate)
Sé humilde
(Humilde)
(Siéntate)
Sé humilde
(Humilde)
Siéntate
(Siéntate)
Sé humilde
(Humilde)
(Verso 3)
Mi movimiento izquierdo acaba de volverse viral
(Viral)
El movimiento derecho puso a la niña en espiral
(Espiral)
Salvaje, sí, estoy fuera, y eso es un hecho
No vas a levantarte y obtener eso
Me muevo como un jefe, no hago el cha-cha
Esa es una forma de niño grande, no me malinterpretes, hermano
Tengo mal genio, porque tengo buen corazón
Tengo mal genio, pero no voy a entrar en las listas
Te voy a matar como si fuera 2Pac
No me vas a ver, porque estoy con el jefe
No sé tu nombre, no conozco tu cara
No sé tu nombre, no conozco tu lugar
No sé tu nombre, no conozco tu cara
No sé tu nombre, no conozco tu lugar
Humilde
(Coro)
Sé humilde
(Humilde)
Siéntate
(Siéntate)
Sé humilde
(Humilde)
(Siéntate)
Sé humilde
(Humilde)
Siéntate
(Siéntate)
Sé humilde
(Humilde)
Delving Deeper: Key Lines and Their Meaning
The power of “Humble” lies in its concise and impactful lines. Let’s dissect some of the most potent:
“Sit down. Be humble.”
This opening command is a direct address to listeners, setting the tone for the entire song. It’s a demand for introspection and a call to leave behind arrogance and vanity. The repetition underscores the song’s central message.
“Last year, they nominated me… Now my watch is gon’ be the first to watch me”
Kendrick acknowledges his accomplishments while emphasizing that he’s not resting on his laurels. He continues to innovate, setting the stage for future successes.
“Who you think you foolin’, fool?”
This line is a direct challenge to those who are inauthentic or trying to deceive. He calls out pretense, demanding accountability.
“My left stroke just went viral… Right stroke put lil’ baby in a spiral”
This is a clever and provocative metaphor for his creative power. Kendrick is referring to his music, which impacts everyone.
“I don’t know your name, I don’t know your face, I don’t know your place”
These lines represent his detachment from those who are insincere or unimportant. He’s focused on his own journey, refusing to be sidetracked by negativity or distractions.
The Spanish translation aims to retain the punch and the core message of each line, capturing the essence of Kendrick’s words while being accessible to a Spanish-speaking audience.
Cultural Resonance and Significance
“Humble” transcended the boundaries of a typical hit single, becoming a cultural touchstone. The song’s message of humility, combined with its innovative production and powerful video, resonated with a broad audience. The music video, directed by Dave Meyers and the little homies, was as striking as the song itself. The visuals presented various images of Kendrick that went against what was seen as the typical rapper. It quickly went viral, sparking discussions about identity, authenticity, and the pressure to conform. “Humble” challenged norms and helped to normalize the idea that vulnerability and introspection were strengths, not weaknesses.
The Spanish translation of the lyrics has further expanded the song’s reach and cultural impact. This allows Spanish speakers to fully engage with Kendrick’s message, strengthening their appreciation for his artistry and sharing his message of humility with a wider community. The translation bridges linguistic divides, making the song’s themes accessible to a larger, more diverse group of listeners. The availability of the lyrics in Spanish enhances the overall listening experience, fostering deeper connection to the music and its message.
Conclusion
“Humble” remains a powerful statement in contemporary music. Through the lyrics, Kendrick Lamar offers a candid look at both himself and society, pushing listeners to examine their values and behaviors. The song’s success is a testament to the enduring appeal of authenticity, humility, and the courage to challenge the status quo. By providing the lyrics in both English and Spanish, we aim to unlock the song for a wider audience, allowing them to fully appreciate the message and impact that “Humble” has had on popular culture. Understanding the lyrics, in either language, enables a greater connection to the song, its creator, and the powerful, important message of self-awareness. Whether you are a long-time fan or a newcomer to Kendrick’s work, we hope this guide to the lyrics of “Humble,” enhanced with a Spanish translation, has enriched your understanding of this significant piece of music.
