Rich
Kendrick Lamar Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

Takin' my baby to school, then I pray for her
'Cause you bitches ain't never been cool, writin' testament
Paintin' pictures, put me in the Louvre, that's a definite
Universal shift, I'm in a groove
And celebrity do not mean integrity, you fool
I'm a good man, shakin' hand, firm grip rule
Seventy-two ways, lost ten, ballin' with the flu
More than two M's for a show, but add another two, hmm
Lil' Man-Man, the big mans, the GT diamond flippin' the kickstand, ooh

Rich nigga, broke phone (ah)
Tryna keep the balance, I'm stayin' strong (ooh)
Stop playin' with me 'fore I turn you to a song (yeah)
Stop playin' with me 'fore I turn you to a song (ooh)
Ayy, bitch, I'm attractive (ah)
Can't fuck with you no more, I'm fastin', ugh (ooh)
Bitch, I'm attractive (ah, ah, ah, ah)
Can't fuck with you no more, I'm fastin', ugh

The morality can wait
Feedback on low latency
I'm glitching from the face as my thoughts grow sacredly
I'm runnin' out of space, ask Whitney, she okay
Never mind a hunnid K, why you lyin' on Benjamin?
He turnin' in his grave
I'd be lyin' if I said I wouldn't give this shit away
The aloof Buddha, I'm Christ with a shooter
Praise to Muhammad, I might nigga noose ya
AP, Michael Friedman, my friends cooler
Primary, so the resale value stupid
I would never live my life on the computer
IG'll get you life for a chikabooya
More power to ya, love 'em from a distance
Why you always in the mirror more than the bitches?
And my cousin tried to sue me like he got the privilege
But I didn't lose sleep 'cause I got the spirit, ayy (ooh)

Rich nigga, broke phone (ah)
Tryna keep the balance, I'm stayin' strong (ooh)
Stop playin' with me 'fore I turn you to a song (yeah)
Stop playin' with me 'fore I turn you to a song (ooh)
Ayy, bitch, I'm attractive (ah)
Can't fuck with you no more, I'm fastin', ugh (ooh)
Bitch, I'm attractive (ah, ah, ah, ah)
Can't fuck with you no more, I'm fastin', ugh

Dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, duh, dum
Dun-duh-duh, duh, duh
Dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, dun

Frat brother, real nigga, that brother
We just upped the score, give me dap, brother
Spirit medium, I don't rap, brother
We headed there now, are you strapped brother?
Ayy, peacemaker, but I'm not naïve, brother
Ayy, gotta watch your homies and police, brother
Ayy, clout chasing hell of a disease, brother
I'm fasting four days out the week, brother
I pray to God that you realize the entourage is dead
I pray to God that you not lackin' when you off the meds
I pray to God she know them Cabo trips don't last forever
Bet she argue with her mama, go and get them kids
I pray to God you actually pray when somebody dies
Thoughts and prayers, way better off timelines
False claimin' not cute, I'm mortified
The new Earth in hot pursuit, two-hundred lives

Rich nigga, broke phone (ah)
Tryna keep the balance, I'm stayin' strong (ooh)
Stop playin' with me 'fore I turn you to a song (yeah)
Stop playin' with me 'fore I turn you to a song (ooh)
Ayy, bitch, I'm attractive (ah)
Can't fuck with you no more, I'm fastin', ugh (ooh)
Bitch, I'm attractive (ah, ah, ah, ah)
Can't fuck with you no more, I'm fastin', ugh

Dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, duh, dum
Dun-duh-duh, duh, duh
Dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, dun
Dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, duh, dum




Dun-duh-duh, duh, duh
Dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, dun

Overall Meaning

The song "Rich" by Kendrick Lamar conveys the message of staying true to oneself and maintaining integrity even in the face of fame and fortune. The opening lines of the song, "Takin' my baby to school, then I pray for her / 'Cause you bitches ain't never been cool" suggest that despite being successful, there are always those who seek to bring you down. The lyrics go on to talk about the importance of being a good man, taking a firm grip in handshakes, and maintaining humility.


Kendrick also touches on the subject of social media and the negative impact it can have on one's life. He highlights the obsession with self-image and the tendency to value one's appearance over their character by saying, "Why you always in the mirror more than the bitches?" He encourages his listeners to love from a distance and not get caught up in the clout-chasing game.


Furthermore, Kendrick stresses the importance of spirituality and its connection to mental health. He mentions that he fasts four days out of the week and prays to God to stay grounded. The lyrics "I'm glitching from the face as my thoughts grow sacredly / I'm runnin' out of space" suggest that he is overwhelmed by the weight of his thoughts and the importance of maintaining his spiritual health.


Overall, "Rich" is a powerful commentary on the importance of staying true to oneself and not losing sight of what truly matters in life.


Line by Line Meaning

Takin' my baby to school, then I pray for her
I prioritize my family and their well-being over everything else, and I choose to pray for them.


'Cause you bitches ain't never been cool, writin' testament
I do not respect those who do not treat others with kindness and respect. They are not worth writing about in my songs.


Paintin' pictures, put me in the Louvre, that's a definite
My art and music are worthy of recognition and appreciation from the art world's most prestigious institutions, such as the famous Louvre in Paris.


Universal shift, I'm in a groove
I am in a powerful and unstoppable creative zone where I am able to make universal statements through my music.


And celebrity do not mean integrity, you fool
Being famous does not automatically mean that you are a person of integrity or worth following. Do not be fooled by celebrity status.


I'm a good man, shakin' hand, firm grip rule
I am a decent and honest person who values a firm handshake and reliable character traits in myself and those around me.


Seventy-two ways, lost ten, ballin' with the flu
I have faced many challenges and obstacles in my career and personal life, but I continue to push through and succeed even when it feels like I am working with a disadvantage.


More than two M's for a show, but add another two, hmm
I am making a lot of money from my shows, more than two million dollars per show, and I am considering adding even more dates to further increase my earnings.


Lil' Man-Man, the big mans, the GT diamond flippin' the kickstand, ooh
I am flashing my wealth and showing off my expensive jewelry, including a diamond-encrusted GT bike.


Rich nigga, broke phone (ah)
Despite my wealth, I still face everyday struggles like breaking my phone.


Tryna keep the balance, I'm stayin' strong (ooh)
I am striving to maintain balance and resilience in my life despite the challenges and expectations that come with my fame and wealth.


Stop playin' with me 'fore I turn you to a song (yeah)
Do not mess with me or disrespect me, or I will turn your actions and words into a publicized song for all to hear.


Bitch, I'm attractive (ah, ah, ah, ah)
I am confident in my own worth and attractiveness, and am unwilling to compromise my self-respect for anyone's approval or acceptance.


Can't fuck with you no more, I'm fastin', ugh (ooh)
I am choosing to cut toxic people and situations out of my life, even if it is a difficult and painful process I must face.


The morality can wait
I am more focused on material success and reputation than on ethical or moral principles at the moment.


Feedback on low latency
I am seeking quick and efficient communication, with minimal delay or interruption.


I'm glitching from the face as my thoughts grow sacredly
I am experiencing moments of cognitive dissonance or frustration as I navigate the tension between my public image and private thoughts and beliefs.


I'm runnin' out of space, ask Whitney, she okay
I am feeling overwhelmed and stretched thin, and am reaching out to my friends and associates - as represented by Whitney Houston - for support and guidance.


Never mind a hunnid K, why you lyin' on Benjamin?
Money is not everything, and I do not see the point in lying or exaggerating about profits or earnings.


He turnin' in his grave
I am unwilling to compromise my values or integrity for the sake of money or success, even if it will lead to others' disapproval.


I'd be lyin' if I said I wouldn't give this shit away
I am aware of the fleeting nature of wealth and fame, and understand that these things can be taken away from me at any moment. At the same time, I recognize that it is important to use my platform to make a difference and give back to others in any way I can.


The aloof Buddha, I'm Christ with a shooter
I am connected to a higher power and sense of self, much like the spiritual leaders Buddha and Christ. However, I also have the capability for violence and aggression, like a shooter.


Praise to Muhammad, I might nigga noose ya
I am showing respect to the religious figure Muhammad while also expressing my potential to harm others.


AP, Michael Friedman, my friends cooler
I am namedropping high-status individuals in order to assert my own importance and success. These people are also my friends or associates.


Primary, so the resale value stupid
I am intentionally spending a lot of money on the best quality items, even if it seems wasteful, so that I can resell them at an even higher value later on.


I would never live my life on the computer
I value authentic, in-person relationships and experiences over social media or digital connections.


IG'll get you life for a chikabooya
I am warning others that social media and the internet can have immense consequences and costs, and that posting or captioning the wrong thing can ruin your life.


More power to ya, love 'em from a distance
I believe in supporting others from afar and respecting their boundaries and personal space.


Why you always in the mirror more than the bitches?
I am calling out those who are too focused on their own appearance or vanity, and suggesting they ought to care more about others and their well-being.


And my cousin tried to sue me like he got the privilege
I am facing legal trouble or conflict with a close family member, and feel that they are overstepping their bounds in doing so.


But I didn't lose sleep 'cause I got the spirit, ayy (ooh)
I am at peace with myself and my actions, and feel that my spiritual beliefs and faith are enough to keep me strong and grounded even in difficult times.


Frat brother, real nigga, that brother
I identify with and respect my fraternity brothers and those who share similar experiences or cultural backgrounds to me.


We just upped the score, give me dap, brother
I am celebrating an achievement or success with someone close to me, and asking for a congratulatory gesture such as a fist bump or handshake.


Spirit medium, I don't rap, brother
I am exploring spiritual themes and subjects in my music, and do not want to be limited by the expectations or labels of traditional hip-hop culture or rap music.


We headed there now, are you strapped brother?
I am asking someone if they have a weapon or protection in case of danger or conflict.


Ayy, peacemaker, but I'm not naïve, brother
I prefer to avoid conflict and promote peace, but I am not ignorant or naive about the realities of violence or aggression that sometimes can occur.


Ayy, gotta watch your homies and police, brother
I am warning others to be careful and attentive around people who are supposed to be their friends or the police, as they could prove to be untrustworthy or dangerous.


Ayy, clout chasing hell of a disease, brother
I am criticizing those who are solely focused on achieving fame or gaining attention through their actions or online presence, suggesting that this is a harmful and self-destructive attitude.


I'm fasting four days out the week, brother
I am practicing religious fasting as a means of discipline and spiritual growth, even if it is challenging or difficult to maintain.


I pray to God that you realize the entourage is dead
I am hoping that others will see that the concept of an 'entourage' or group of followers is outdated or irrelevant, and that genuine friendships or relationships are more valuable.


I pray to God that you not lackin' when you off the meds
I am showing concern for others' mental health and well-being, and hoping they find support and stability even when they are not taking medication or seeking professional help.


I pray to God she know them Cabo trips don't last forever
I am reminding someone of the fleeting nature of material pleasures and temporary escapes, and suggesting they focus on more long-lasting or meaningful experiences.


Bet she argue with her mama, go and get them kids
I am commenting on a universal struggle that many women face, balancing motherhood and familial responsibilities with conflict or tension in personal relationships or career aspirations.


I pray to God you actually pray when somebody dies
I am encouraging others to approach grief or mourning with true spiritual or religious practices, as opposed to performative or empty gestures.


Thoughts and prayers, way better off timelines
I am suggesting that people's social media posts or comments are not as valuable or sincere as genuine thought and prayer for others' well-being and healing.


False claimin' not cute, I'm mortified
I am embarrassed and frustrated by others' tendency to exaggerate or lie about their backgrounds or experiences, especially when it comes to cultural issues or identity.


The new Earth in hot pursuit, two-hundred lives
I am referencing a new era or vision that I am pursuing, one that involves higher consciousness and connection, possibly involving the guiding or saving of others' lives.




Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: Dacoury Dahi Natche, Frano Jay Huett, Jahann Akil Sweet, Kendrick Lamar Duckworth, Mark Anthony Spears, Samuel Joseph Dew

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Most interesting comment from YouTube:

@elguirimadethis9239

Takin' my baby to school, then I pray for her
'Cause you bitches ain't never been cool, writin' testament
Paintin' pictures, put me in the Louvre, that's a definite
Universal shift, I'm in a groove
And celebrity do not mean integrity, you fool
I'm a good man, shakin' hand, firm grip rule
Seventy-two ways, lost ten, ballin' with the flu
More than two M's for a show, but add another two, hmm
Lil' Man-Man, the big mans, the GT diamond flippin' the kickstand, ooh
Rich nigga, broke phone (ah)
Tryna keep the balance, I'm stayin' strong (ooh)
Stop playin' with me 'fore I turn you to a song (yeah)
Stop playin' with me 'fore I turn you to a song (ooh)
Ayy, bitch, I'm attractive (ah)
Can't fuck with you no more, I'm fastin', ugh (ooh)
Bitch, I'm attractive (ah, ah, ah, ah)
Can't fuck with you no more, I'm fastin', ugh
The morality can wait
Feedback on low latency
I'm glitching from the face as my thoughts grow sacredly
I'm runnin' out of space, ask Whitney, she okay
Never mind a hunnid K, why you lyin' on Benjamin?
He turnin' in his grave
I'd be lyin' if I said I wouldn't give this shit away
The aloof Buddha, I'm Christ with a shooter
Praise to Muhammad, I might nigga noose ya
AP, Michael Friedman, my friends cooler
Primary, so the resale value stupid
I would never live my life on the computer
IG'll get you life for a chikabooya
More power to ya, love 'em from a distance
Why you always in the mirror more than the bitches?
And my cousin tried to sue me like he got the privilege
But I didn't lose sleep 'cause I got the spirit, ayy (ooh)
Rich nigga, broke phone (ah)
Tryna keep the balance, I'm stayin' strong (ooh)
Stop playin' with me 'fore I turn you to a song (yeah)
Stop playin' with me 'fore I turn you to a song (ooh)
Ayy, bitch, I'm attractive (ah)
Can't fuck with you no more, I'm fastin', ugh (ooh)
Bitch, I'm attractive (ah, ah, ah, ah)
Can't fuck with you no more, I'm fastin', ugh
Dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, duh, dum
Dun-duh-duh, duh, duh
Dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, dun
Frat brother, real nigga, that brother
We just upped the score, give me dap, brother
Spirit medium, I don't rap, brother
We headed there now, are you strapped brother?
Ayy, peacemaker, but I'm not naïve, brother
Ayy, gotta watch your homies and police, brother
Ayy, clout chasing hell of a disease, brother
I'm fasting four days out the week, brother
I pray to God that you realize the entourage is dead
I pray to God that you not lackin' when you off the meds
I pray to God she know them Cabo trips don't last forever
Bet she argue with her mama, go and get them kids
I pray to God you actually pray when somebody dies
Thoughts and prayers, way better off timelines
False claimin' not cute, I'm mortified
The new Earth in hot pursuit, two-hundred lives
Rich nigga, broke phone (ah)
Tryna keep the balance, I'm stayin' strong (ooh)
Stop playin' with me 'fore I turn you to a song (yeah)
Stop playin' with me 'fore I turn you to a song (ooh)
Ayy, bitch, I'm attractive (ah)
Can't fuck with you no more, I'm fastin', ugh (ooh)
Bitch, I'm attractive (ah, ah, ah, ah)
Can't fuck with you no more, I'm fastin', ugh
Dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, duh, dum
Dun-duh-duh, duh, duh
Dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, dun
Dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, duh, dum
Dun-duh-duh, duh, duh
Dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, dun-duh, dun



All comments from YouTube:

@KnoxHill

The artistry behind this! Love the feeling of loneliness and symbolism reflected in the visuals. Masterpiece

@wedontagelikemilktho.7839

My boy Knox I see you.

@kaboose111

Dude that was a gay as hell comment.

@BlakeAlexander12

lol

@querumba5753

Kendrick manage his own videos bro.

@eddiedixon3500

​@@BlakeAlexander12😊ppppp

3 More Replies...

@shakirastewart2020

It’s the uncomfortable choreography, it’s the drip, it’s the color scheme, it’s the loneliness, it’s the cowboy Kenny era and I LOVE IT.

@-whyquestion

K-pop better + I’m the ultimate k-pop defender ☝🏻☝🏻☝🏻🤓🤓🤓👶🏻👶🏻👶🏻👶🏻👶🏻👶🏻👶🏻👶🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🤳🏼🤳🏼🤳🏼🤓🤓🤓🤓🤓🤓🤓🤓🤓🤓🤓🤓🤓🤓🤓

@VBVB102

"cowboy Kenny" I like that.

@h.abanero

@@-whyquestion you're sad and I hope you see that you're amounting to nothing in life

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