Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: hip-hop
Song Meaning of “Compton” by Kendrick Lamar
‘Compton’ by Kendrick Lamar is a song that celebrates the rapper’s hometown and his roots and paying tribute to the strength of people from his city. The song is a reflection of his life growing up in Compton, California, and talks about how hard the people of his community have worked to make it out of the tough situations they faced and to make a better life for themselves.
The opening lines, “From one one-eighteen to the two-four-three, this is Compton’s anthem” speak of the area codes of the city and how it is a symbol of pride. The lyrics throughout the song delve further into the resilience of the people. He raps about issues in the city such as drugs and violence, which many of the population had to deal with in order to have a chance at progress. He talks about not succumbing to the risk of falling victim to the traps of the city, and instead find a way out. He raps about success and how the streets of Compton have toughened him, but also how they have made him a stronger person.
The song highlights how hard the people of Compton had to work to build a future outside of what their environment initially offered and how this is something to be proud of. It is a representation of the courage and determination the city has shown in the face of adversity and is testament to the hope and greatness that lies within it.