Top Dawg Entertainment eventually released a music video for the song. This was the first significant step toward mainstream exposure since Kendrick’s previous project, 2009’s The Kendrick Lamar EP. It’s likely that he decided to publicize encouraging remarks made by Lil Wayne following the promotion of Jay Rock’s 2008 single “All My Life (In the Ghetto)”—the original version featured a young K. Dot, and he also appeared in the music video, although his verse was absent.
Michael Jordan
Kendrick Lamar Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Figure I would make the NBA and make me a fortune
Uh, every time I'm in my city, I be acting like my shit don't stink
Used to clean my Rolie chain with alcohol in the sink
Riding around with niggas that I grew up with since McNair
Bumping me against the world, hello world, Kendrick here
And I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoesI'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
Wayne told me that and that's just how it goes
Michael Jordan, bounce-bounce ho, bounce-bounce
This shit make a nigga wanna get some bread or bust a head
Or fuck my enemies bitch, acting bad and getting rich
Pull up on these 26's, I'm a vanity slave
I'm a sinner, Jesus Christ, please forgive me for my ways
I don't know why your bitch want to fuck me
And I don't know why you fuck niggas can't see
I'm a Comp-town representer, a concrete back-flipper A.K.A that nigga
Don't wuwwy! I don't know why your bitch want to fuck me
And I don't know why you fuck niggas can't see
This is Hiii-power since the Eddie Bauer, I've been popular
I'm popping now, every other hour, paparazzi come
You jocking the let her be a ho, why you stopping though?
We stopping the traffic, what you know about them hockey pucks?
Skating on 'em, why you hating on 'em? You should learn from 'em
Seen too many of y'all getting money, know my turn coming
I don't know why your bitch want to fuck me
I don't know why hey, wait a minute motherfucker
Every time I'm in my city, I be acting like my shit don't stink
Used to clean my Rolie chain with alcohol in the sink
Riding around with niggas that I grew up with since McNairBumping me against the world, hello world, Kendrick here
And I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
Wayne told me that and that's just how it goes
Michael Jordan bitch, Michael Jordan bitch, Michael Jordan bitch
Michael Jordan bitch, that means I'm too much for these niggas
I'm three much for these hoes
Wayne told me that and that's just how it goes
Man, the game chose me, what am I to do?
The only thing I did wrong was make it possible
I diddy bop and make them titties pop
Out there on my bumper like a city cop
Walking out the Fred Segal, put my girl on it
Ass so fat, probably sit the world on it
Aye, pussy crazy, pussy crazy, you fuck niggas, you pussies crazy
Man, I know I can't tell you about the world homie
But I know I can tell you about your girl homie
Her pussy's crazy, her pussy crazy, I fuck nigga, I know you hate me
I know they pay me too much of attention
Bring my name up, it gotta be mentioned
I need me an engine that go real fast, call it hall of fame once it haul ass
Give me tall glass, Coconut Ciroc, please, no soda pop
I make my solo pop, life's a bitch, her pussy crazy but I make that pussy pay me
Every time I'm in my city, I be feeling like my shit don't stink
Used to clean my Rolie chain with alcohol in the sink
Riding around with niggas that I grew up with since McNair
Bumping me against the world, hello world, Kendrick here
And I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
Wayne told me that and that's just how it goes
Michael Jordan bitch, Michael Jordan bitch, Michael Jordan bitch
Michael Jordan bitch, that means I'm too much for these niggas
I'm three much for these hoes, Wayne told me that
I remember tripping, walking through the set like my Glock don't think
Grandma in the kitchen, neck bones in the sink
I don't know why your bitch want to fuck me
And I don't know why you sucker niggas can't see
I'm from Hoover man, high as Superman, shit you Lois Lane
You pussy man with the pussy game, shit, we off the chain
We popping the fortune, not the fame, shit, you backwards, man
You chasing hoes, we replacing hoes, bag and pass them hoes
You brought and chose, guess she moving on, yep, we do it wrong
We fucked her homes, fucked and sent her home, marijuana strong
You know I'm gone, turn my swagger on, am I swagged enough?
My paper long, yep, you left alone, you gets no fucks
Leaning off the Actavis, passing blunts round and round
Told me Mary was a go so we passed her round and round
Your bitch texted me, wants it now so I had to knock her down
Hurt her bouncing off my balls, slinging dick up from the mouth
You let it slide, I hit home-runs, clean her dugout till I'm done
I can be her number two and you can be her number one
Her pussy's crazy, her pussy's crazy, you fuck niggas
Every time I'm in my city, I be feeling like my shit don't stink
Used to clean my Rolie chain with alcohol in the sink
Riding around with niggas that I grew up with since McNair
Bumping me against the world, hello world, Kendrick here
And I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
Wayne told me that and that's just how it goes
Michael Jordan bitch, Michael Jordan bitch, Michael Jordan bitch
Michael Jordan bitch, that means I'm too much for these niggas
I'm three much for these hoes, Wayne told me that and that's just how it goes
In Kendrick Lamar's song "Michael Jordan," the rapper explores his early aspirations to be like Michael Jordan - a superstar athlete who he believed would bring him fame and fortune. However, as the song progresses, Lamar reflects on the path he has taken and the ways in which he has become "too much" for those around him. He touches on themes of wealth, power, and celebrity, reflecting on his success and the ways in which he has outgrown his past.
Throughout the song, Lamar employs a range of literary devices to convey his message. He uses repetition of the phrase "I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes" to emphasize his status and how he has surpassed the expectations of those around him. He also employs vivid imagery, such as when he raps about "clean[ing] my Rolie chain with alcohol in the sink" to convey a sense of luxury and excess.
Line by Line Meaning
I used to want to be like Michael Jordan
In my youth, I aspired to emulate the greatness and success of Michael Jordan.
Figure I would make the NBA and make me a fortune
I believed that achieving a career in the NBA would lead me to financial success.
Uh, every time I'm in my city, I be acting like my shit don't stink
Whenever I'm home, I carry myself with confidence, as if I can do no wrong.
Used to clean my Rolie chain with alcohol in the sink
I once took pride in my possessions, cleaning my expensive jewelry with care.
Riding around with niggas that I grew up with since McNair
I surround myself with my childhood friends from McNair, maintaining those deep-rooted connections.
Bumping me against the world, hello world, Kendrick here
I assert my presence to the world, introducing myself as Kendrick.
And I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
I feel superior to my peers, exceeding their expectations and the desires of women.
I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
Reiterating my dominance over the competition and allure to women.
I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
Affirming my overwhelming presence and influence again.
Wayne told me that and that's just how it goes
I learned from a mentor that this level of confidence is just an inevitable truth in my life.
Michael Jordan, bounce-bounce ho, bounce-bounce
Referencing the iconic basketball player signifies my dynamic energy and drive.
This shit make a nigga wanna get some bread or bust a head
The intensity of my success motivates me to chase wealth or confront my adversaries.
Or fuck my enemies bitch, acting bad and getting rich
I fantasize about taking what my opponents value, all while elevating my own status.
Pull up on these 26's, I'm a vanity slave
I drive extravagant vehicles as tokens of my success, becoming somewhat enslaved by materialism.
I'm a sinner, Jesus Christ, please forgive me for my ways
I acknowledge my wrongs and seek spiritual redemption for my choices.
I don't know why your bitch want to fuck me
I am puzzled by the attraction some women have towards me despite the relationships they have.
And I don't know why you fuck niggas can't see
I question the ignorance of my rivals who fail to recognize my talent and prowess.
I'm a Comp-town representer, a concrete back-flipper A.K.A that nigga
I proudly represent my hometown, showcasing my unique skills and street credibility.
Don't wuwwy! I don't know why your bitch want to fuck me
There's no need to fret; my appeal to your partner is something beyond my control.
And I don't know why you fuck niggas can't see
Again expressing my disbelief at my rivals' failure to appreciate my talents.
This is Hiii-power since the Eddie Bauer, I've been popular
I've been influential from my beginnings, gaining popularity over time.
I'm popping now, every other hour, paparazzi come
My fame has surged to the point where I'm regularly surrounded by media attention.
You jocking the let her be a ho, why you stopping though?
Critiquing those who lust for validation yet hinder their own progress by holding onto distractions.
We stopping the traffic, what you know about them hockey pucks?
We command attention, just as hockey pucks are central to the game; we dominate our field.
Skating on 'em, why you hating on 'em? You should learn from 'em
Instead of envying our success, others should take lessons from our journey and achievements.
Seen too many of y'all getting money, know my turn coming
I've observed many succeed financially, and I believe my time for success is on the horizon.
I don't know why your bitch want to fuck me
Returning to the puzzlement of why some women are drawn to me.
I don't know why hey, wait a minute motherfucker
Suddenly frustrated, questioning everything around me and the motivations of others.
Every time I'm in my city, I be acting like my shit don't stink
I'm confident in my hometown, brimming with self-assurance about my place in it.
Used to clean my Rolie chain with alcohol in the sink
I take pride in maintaining my valuable possessions, reflecting my success.
Riding around with niggas that I grew up with since McNair
Staying true to my roots by keeping close ties with my childhood friends.
Bumping me against the world, hello world, Kendrick here
I boldly announce my identity to the world, making my presence felt.
And I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
I emphasize my overwhelming impact and appeal to both men and women.
I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
Reiterating that I exceed the expectations placed upon me.
I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
Confidently affirming my superiority once again.
Wayne told me that and that's just how it goes
A mentor's wisdom reinforces my belief in my own worth.
Michael Jordan bitch, Michael Jordan bitch, Michael Jordan bitch
The repetition symbolizes my connection to greatness, likening myself to the iconic athlete.
Michael Jordan bitch, that means I'm too much for these niggas
Claiming my dominance using Michael Jordan as a metaphor for excellence.
I'm three much for these hoes
Assuring that my appeal far exceeds that of others.
Wayne told me that and that's just how it goes
Again referencing sage advice from a mentor about self-worth.
Man, the game chose me, what am I to do?
I recognize that I've been designated for success; I must embrace the path laid before me.
The only thing I did wrong was make it possible
The only mistake I've made is realizing that I could achieve my dreams.
I diddy bop and make them titties pop
I carry myself with swagger, influencing those around me with my charisma.
Out there on my bumper like a city cop
I attract attention everywhere I go, similar to how a police officer monitors the streets.
Walking out the Fred Segal, put my girl on it
Emerging from a trendy store, showcasing my partner and our lifestyle.
Ass so fat, probably sit the world on it
Praising my partner's physical attributes, humorously suggesting she carries great weight.
Aye, pussy crazy, pussy crazy, you fuck niggas, you pussies crazy
A playful acknowledgment of the wildness surrounding relationships and the reactions from others.
Man, I know I can't tell you about the world homie
Recognizing my limitations in delivering broader life lessons.
But I know I can tell you about your girl homie
Yet, I can certainly share insight into your partner's behavior and desires.
Her pussy's crazy, her pussy crazy, I fuck nigga, I know you hate me
Acknowledge the tension created by my relationship with someone's partner.
I know they pay me too much of attention
I'm aware that my presence draws disproportionate attention from others.
Bring my name up, it gotta be mentioned
Whenever discussions arise, my name is inevitably included, signifying my impact.
I need me an engine that go real fast, call it hall of fame once it haul ass
I aspire for success and speed in my ventures, equating it to being recognized in the ‘hall of fame’.
Give me tall glass, Coconut Ciroc, please, no soda pop
Requesting a sophisticated drink, denoting my preference for an upscale lifestyle.
I make my solo pop, life's a bitch, her pussy crazy but I make that pussy pay me
I create my success independently while navigating the complexities of life, ensuring I profit from my experiences.
Every time I'm in my city, I be feeling like my shit don't stink
My confidence in my hometown remains unshaken; I feel untouchable here.
Used to clean my Rolie chain with alcohol in the sink
Emphasizing my meticulous care for luxury items.
Riding around with niggas that I grew up with since McNair
Cherishing bonds with those who have been a constant in my life from childhood.
Bumping me against the world, hello world, Kendrick here
Fearlessly putting my name out there, ready to be recognized.
And I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
Insisting again on my superior position and allure.
I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
Reinforcing the theme of my own temporary advantage.
I'm too much for these niggas, I'm three much for these hoes
Solidifying my claim of overwhelming influence once again.
Wayne told me that and that's just how it goes
Mentor Wayne's wisdom continuously echoes in my mind.
Michael Jordan bitch, Michael Jordan bitch, Michael Jordan bitch
Repeatedly aligning myself with the idea of excellence that MJ embodies.
Michael Jordan bitch, that means I'm too much for these niggas
Finalizing the analogy that reinforces my unrivaled status among competitors.
I'm three much for these hoes, Wayne told me that
Conclusion emphasizing my overpowering nature in relationships as learned from Wayne.
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: KENDRICK LAMAR, MARK SPEARS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@ty6403
I HOPE KENDRICK KNOWS THAT IF HE STAYS IN THE RAP GAME FOR ANOTHER 5-8 YEARS AND CONTINUES TO RAP FROM THE SOUL HE CAN BE IN THE SAME CIRCLE OF RAPPERS THAT NAS, TUPAC, BIGGIE, AND EMINEM.
@isakdahl7054
Hello. It’s been nine years. Just dropping in to remind you that you were completely fucking correct.
@cool_whiteboy_john
Bro predicted the future better than the Simpsons
@ratmatat
Nah this guy a time traveller 😭
@shacklebreaker
Lmao got what you wanted
@elementalgerm68
Bro from the future
@Rizpektable
This is where Schoolboy Q built that unmistakable flow
@dsclark818
yes, these were the times
@J.k.mac99
the more kendrick grows hair... the bigger he gets
@learnwithsalim1228
Money Max Hes mocking the songs that get the most radio play.. He dumbed down his lyrics to show those rappers how shitty they sound