Not Like Us
Kendrick Lamar Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
(Mustard on the beat, hoe)
Ayy, Mustard on the beat, hoe
Deebo, any rap nigga, he a free throw
Man down, call an ambulance, tell him, "Breathe, bro"
Nail a nigga to the cross, he walk around like Teezo
What′s up with these jabroni-ass niggas tryna see Compton?
The industry can hate me, fuck 'em all and they mama
How many opps you really got? I mean, it′s too many options
I'm finna pass on this body, I'm John Stockton
Beat your ass and hide the Bible if God watchin′
Sometimes you gotta pop out and show niggas
Certified boogeyman, I′m the one that up the score with 'em
Walk him down, whole time I know he got some hoe in him
Pole on him, extort shit, bully, Death Row on him
Say, Drake, I hear you like ′em young
You better not ever go to cell block one
To any bitch that talk to him and they in love
Just make sure you hide your lil' sister from him
They tell me Chubbs the only one that get your hand-me-downs
And PARTY at the party, playin′ with his nose now
And Baka got a weird case, why is he around?
Certified Lover Boy? Certified pedophiles
Wop, wop, wop, wop, wop, Dot, fuck 'em up
Wop, wop, wop, wop, wop, I′ma do my stuff
Why you trollin' like a bitch? Ain't you tired?
Tryna strike a chord and it′s probably A-Minor
They not like us, they not like us, they not like us
They not like us, they not like us, they not like us
You think the Bay gon′ let you disrespect Pac, nigga?
I think that Oakland show gon' be your last stop, nigga
Did Cole fouI, I don′t know why you still pretendin'
What is the owl? Bird niggas and bird bitches, go
The audience not dumb
Shape the stories how you want, hey, Drake, they′re not slow
Rabbit hole is still deep, I can go further, I promise
Ain't that somethin′? B-Rad stands for bitch
And you Malibu most wanted
Ain't no law, boy, you ballboy, fetch Gatorade or somethin'
Since 2009, I had this bitch jumpin′
You niggas′ll get a wedgie, be flipped over your boxers
What OVO for? The "Other Vaginal Option"? Pussy
Nigga better straighten they posture, got famous all up in Compton
Might write this for the docket, tell the pop star, "Quit hidin'"
Fuck a caption, want action, no accident, and I′m hands-on
He fuck around, get polished
Fucked on Wayne girl while he was in jail, that's connivin′
Then get his face tatted like a bitch apologizin'
I′m glad DeRoz' came home, y'all didn′t deserve him neither
From Alondra down to Central, nigga better not speak on Serena
And your homeboy need subpoena, that predator move in flocks
That name gotta be registered and placed on neighborhood watch
I lean on you niggas like another line of Wock′
Yeah, it's all eyes on me, and I′ma send it up to Pac, ayy
Put the wrong label on me, I'ma get ′em dropped, ayy
Sweet Chin Music, and I won't pass the aux, ayy
How many stocks do I really have in stock? Ayy
One, two, three, four, five, plus five, ayy
Devil is a lie, he a 69 God, ayy
Freaky-ass niggas need to stay they ass inside, ayy
Roll they ass up like a fresh pack of ′za, ayy
City is back up, it's a must, we outside, ayy
They not like us, they not like us, they not like us
They not like us, they not like us, they not like us
Once upon a time, all of us was in chains
Homie still doubled down callin' us some slaves
Atlanta was the Mecca, buildin′ railroads and trains
Bear with me for a second, let me put y′all on game
The settlers was usin' town folk to make ′em richer
Fast-forward, 2024, you got the same agenda
You run to Atlanta when you need a check balance
Let me break it down for you, this the real nigga challenge
You called Future when you didn't see the club (ayy, what?)
Lil Baby helped you get your lingo up (what?)
21 gave you false street cred
Thug made you feel like you a slime in your head (ayy, what?)
Quavo said you can be from Northside (what?)
2 Chainz say you good, but he lied
You run to Atlanta when you need a few dollars
No, you not a colleague, you a fuckin′ colonizer
The family matter, and the truth of the matter
It was God's plan to show y′all the liar
Mm
Mm-mm
He a fan, he a fan, he a fan (mm)
He a fan, he a fan, he a-
Freaky-ass nigga, he a 69 God
Freaky-ass nigga, he a 69 God
Hey, hey, hey, hey, run for your life
Hey, hey, hey, hey, run for your life
Freaky-ass nigga, he a 69 God
Freaky-ass nigga, he a 69 God
Hey, hey, hey, hey, run for your life
Hey, hey, hey, hey, run for your life
Let me hear you say, "OV-hoe" (OV-hoe)
Say, "OV-hoe" (OV-hoe)
Then step this way, step that way
Then step this way, step that way
Are you my friend?
Are we locked in?
Then step this way, step that way
Then step this way, step that way
In Kendrick Lamar's song "Not Like Us," the lyrics paint a vivid picture of themes ranging from street life and gang culture to industry politics and personal vendettas. The opening lines, "Psst, I see dead people," create a haunting and provocative atmosphere, setting the stage for the raw and unfiltered content that follows. The reference to Mustard on the beat adds a signature touch to the track.
Kendrick Lamar addresses various rap figures and industry dynamics, showcasing his lyrical prowess with lines like "Man down, call an ambulance, tell him, 'Breathe, bro'" and "Nail a nigga to the cross, he walk around like Teezo." These lines illustrate a mix of violence, bravado, and biblical imagery, highlighting Kendrick's ability to blend complex themes in his storytelling. The references to John Stockton and hiding the Bible from God's watchful gaze add layers of depth to his verses.
The lyrics also touch on controversies within the rap industry, taking shots at fellow artists like Drake and accusing them of questionable behavior. Kendrick doesn't hold back, calling out perceived injustices and hypocrisy while asserting his own authenticity and credibility in the game. The references to hidden agendas, false personas, and industry politics create a sense of distrust and rivalry within the music world.
As the song progresses, Kendrick delves deeper into history and societal issues, touching on themes of colonization, race, and cultural appropriation. He challenges the notion of authenticity and sheds light on the exploitation and appropriation of Black culture, particularly in cities like Atlanta. The references to influential figures like Future, Lil Baby, and 21 Savage underscore the impact of culture vultures and the complexities of identity in the music industry.
Overall, "Not Like Us" is a poignant and multifaceted track that showcases Kendrick Lamar's ability to blend social commentary with personal reflections and sharp critiques of the music industry. The lyrics are dense with references, metaphors, and layered meanings, inviting listeners to dig deep and analyze the complexities of power, identity, and authenticity in the world of hip-hop.
Line by Line Meaning
Psst, I see dead people
Secretly observing the downfall of others
Ayy, Mustard on the beat, hoe
Acknowledging the producer of the music
Deebo, any rap nigga, he a free throw
Easily overpowering other rappers
Man down, call an ambulance, tell him, 'Breathe, bro'
Inflicting serious harm and then showing concern
Nail a nigga to the cross, he walk around like Teezo
Suffering without showing weakness
What's up with these jabroni-ass niggas tryna see Compton?
Questioning the authenticity of outsiders trying to understand Compton
The industry can hate me, fuck 'em all and they mama
Not caring about others' opinions in the music industry
How many opps you really got? I mean, it's too many options
Having numerous foes and options in dealing with them
I'm finna pass on this body, I'm John Stockton
Choosing to avoid conflict like a skilled player
Beat your ass and hide the Bible if God watchin'
Committing violence without guilt or remorse
Sometimes you gotta pop out and show niggas
Displaying dominance to assert authority
Certified boogeyman, I'm the one that up the score with 'em
Establishing a reputation as someone to fear in confrontations
Walk him down, whole time I know he got some hoe in him
Understanding the vulnerabilities of others despite their tough exterior
Pole on him, extort shit, bully, Death Row on him
Using intimidation tactics and threats to manipulate others
Say, Drake, I hear you like 'em young
Addressing rumors or controversies involving Drake
You better not ever go to cell block one
Warning against potential repercussions for inappropriate behavior
To any bitch that talk to him and they in love
Cautioning individuals who may be romantically involved with someone problematic
Just make sure you hide your lil' sister from him
Advising to protect vulnerable family members
They not like us, they not like us, they not like us
Distinguishing oneself from others who are morally reprehensible
You think the Bay gon' let you disrespect Pac, nigga?
Challenging disrespect towards a respected figure like Tupac
I think that Oakland show gon' be your last stop, nigga
Implying consequences for offending a particular community
Did Cole foul, I don't know why you still pretendin'
Questioning the authenticity of others' actions
What is the owl? Bird niggas and bird bitches, go
Referencing secretive or deceitful individuals
Ain't no law, boy, you ballboy, fetch Gatorade or somethin'
Dismissive attitude towards someone acting without authority
City is back up, it's a must, we outside, ayy
Asserting presence and dominance in the city
Writer(s): Kendrick Lamar
Contributed by Maya M. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@MFLMoises2
Kill shot? Rihanna just hit me on a text
Last night I left hickeys on her neck
Wait, you just dissed me? I'm perplexed
Insult me in a line, compliment me on the next, damn
I'm really sorry you want me to have a heart attack
Was watchin' 8 Mile on my NordicTrack
Realized I forgot to call you back
Here's that autograph for your daughter, I wrote it on a Starter cap
Stan, Stan, son, listen, man, dad isn't mad
But how you gonna name yourself after a damn gun and have a man bun?
The giant's woke, eyes open, undeniable
Supplyin' smoke, got the fire stoked
Say you got me in a scope, but you grazed me
I say one call to Interscope and you're Swayze
Your reply got the crowd yelling, "Woo"
So before you die let's see who can out-petty who
With your corny lines (Slim you're old)
Ow, Kelly, ooh, but I'm 45 and I'm still outselling you
By 29 I had three albums that had blew
Now let's talk about somethin' I don't really do
Go in someone's daughter's mouth stealin' food
But you're a fuckin' mole hill, now I'ma make a mountain out of you, woo!
Ho, chill, actin' like you put the chrome barrel to my bone marrow
Gunner? Bitch, you ain't a bow and arrow
Say you'll run up on me like a phone bill, sprayin' lead
Playin' dead, that's the only time you hold still
Are you eating cereal, or oatmeal?
What the fuck's in the bowl, milk? Wheaties or Cheerios?
'Cause I'm takin' a shit in 'em, Kelly, I need reading material
Dictionary
Yo Slim, your last four albums sucked
Go back to Recovery, oh shoot, that was three albums ago
What do you know? Oops, know your facts before you come at me, lil' goof
Luxury, oh, you broke, bitch?
Yeah, I had enough money in '02
To burn it in front of you, ho
Younger me? No, you the whack me
It's funny, but so true
I'd rather be 80 year old me than 20 year old you
'Til I'm hitting old age, still can fill a whole page with a 10 year old's rage
Got more fans than you in your own city, lil' kiddy
Go play, feel like I'm babysitting Lil Tay
Got the Diddy okay so you spent your whole day
Shootin' a video just to fuckin' dig your own grave
Got you at your own wake, I'm the billy goat
You ain't never made a list next to no Biggie, no Jay
Next to Taylor Swift, and that Iggy ho, you about to really blow
Kelly, they'll be putting your name
Next to Ja, next to Benzino, die, motherfucker
Like the last motherfucker sayin' Hailey in vain
Alien brain, you Satanist (yeah)
My biggest flops are your greatest hits
The game's mine again and ain't nothin' changed but the locks
So before I slay this bitch, mwah, give Jade a kiss
Gotta wake up Labor Day to this (the fuck?)
Bein' rich-shamed by some prick usin' my name for clickbait
In a state of bliss 'cause I said his goddamn name
Now I gotta cock back, aim, yeah, bitch, pop champagne to this
It's your moment, this is it
As big as you're gonna get, so enjoy it
Had to give you a career to destroy it
Lethal injection, go to sleep six feet deep
I'll give you a B for the effort, but if I was three
Foot 11, you'd look up to me, and for the record
You would suck a dick to fuckin' be me for a second
Lick a ballsack to get on my channel
Give your life to be as solidified
This mothafuckin' shit is like Rambo when he's out of bullets
So what good is a fuckin' machine gun when it's out of ammo?
Had enough of this tatted-up mumble rapper
How the fuck can him and I battle?
He'll have to fuck Kim in my flannel
I'll give him my sandals
'Cause he knows long as I'm Shady, he's gon' have to live in my shadow
Exhausting, letting off on my offspring
Like a gun barrel, bitch, get off me
You dance around it like a sombrero, we can all see
You're fuckin' salty 'cause young Gerald's balls-deep inside of Halsey
Your red sweater, your black leather
You dress better, I rap better
That a death threat or a love letter?
Little white toothpick
Thinks it's over a pic, I just don't like you, prick
Thanks for dissing me
Now I had an excuse on the mic to write, "Not Alike"
But really, I don't care who's in the right
But you're losin' the fight you picked
Who else want it, Kells?
Attempt fails, Budden, L's
Fuckin' nails in these coffins as soft as Cottonelle
Killshot, I will not fail, I'm with the Doc still
But this idiot's boss pops pills and tells him he's got skills
But Kells, the day you put out a hit's the day Diddy admits
That he put the hit out that got Pac killed, ah
I'm sick of you bein' whack
And still usin' that mothafuckin' Auto-Tune, so let's talk about it (let's talk about it)
I'm sick of your mumble rap mouth
Need to get the cock up out it before we can even talk about it (talk about it)
I'm sick of your blonde hair and earrings
Just 'cause you look in the mirror and think you're Marshall Mathers (Marshall Mathers)
Don't mean you are, and you're not about it
So just leave my dick in your mouth, and keep my daughter out it
@icywavs
To everyone who's studying with this song, here's a little checklist:
• A bottle of water. Your brain works better if it has enough water and drinking helps you to concentrate 💦
• Your charger. You sometimes don't even notice that your device's battery is going down, so better have it plugged in all the time ⚡
• Your headphones. You will be able to focus more
with headphones because it blocks background noises. Also, if it's a late night study session, you won't wake up anyone 🎧
• Tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. Coffee keeps you awake, green or black tea can make you feel more awake as well ☕
• Your study/work stuff: your laptop/tablet/ phone,
a few pens, paper or whatever you need 📚
Remember to take breaks whenever you need along with moving your body around a bit so you're not always sitting! Have a beautiful day/night ✨
@JonSudano
Kendrick the type of dude to appear in the mirror behind drake when he closes the medicine cabinet
@lotusphoenix8
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 Jump Scare 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
@Cjcoolkid
he him fr
@AiRRiA51ENT
Da Boogeyman
@realhillkell
Sopranos reference
@Mizisualoverr
@@AiRRiA51ENTDA BOOGEYMANNN
@isaacwhyy
bro featured the whole city 😭😭😭
@SussyGabrielOFFICIAL
I EXPOSED KNIGHTOFDARKNESS420 + I’M COOLER THAN KENDRICK LAMAR 🔥🔥🔥
@sirbrowny7638
Ily Isaac baby 😘
@azyro1624
ISAAC?