How Kendrick Lamar and U2 collided to critique the American political system
In short: Released in 2017, Kendrick Lamar’s track XXX serves as a shapeshifting exploration of violence, revenge, and faith. By blending his own verses with a prominent cameo from Irish rock icons U2, Lamar constructs a complex narrative that challenges the listener to confront the fractured reality of the American experience.
The song XXX, featured on Lamar’s fourth studio album Damn, functions as a critique of power and systemic instability. Lyrically, Lamar navigates the tension between personal protection and broader societal decay, referencing the transition from the Obama administration to the presidency of Donald Trump. Critics have noted that the track captures a profound loss of faith in the system, with Lamar’s intense vocal delivery highlighting how the American experience is experienced differently across individuals.
A defining feature of the track is its collaboration with U2, whose members are credited as songwriters. The song samples American Soul and features Bono on a prominent refrain. Journalists have observed that the juxtaposition between U2’s interludes and Lamar’s aggressive verses is essential to understanding the song’s message. This partnership was further cemented through live performances, including a notable appearance at the 60th Annual Grammy Awards in January 2018, where Lamar, U2, and Dave Chappelle performed together.
Beyond its political commentary, the song is dense with religious imagery and personal reflection. Lamar incorporates biblical allusions, such as a reference to Noah’s Ark, while simultaneously positioning himself as a figure acting in the Lord’s favor. He also revisits themes of gang culture, echoing narratives from his earlier work. Throughout the track, Lamar wrestles with the concept of perfection, ultimately presenting a piece of work that he explicitly labeled as satire during his live performances, including his set at the 2018 Reading Festival.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: XXX (Kendrick Lamar song)
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