Kendrick Lamar, known for his conscious lyrics and socially aware music, surprised students at a high school in 2014 with an impactful performance of his hit song “Swimming Pools (Drank)“. A video snippet of the performance has recently gone viral on Twitter, sparking conversations about addiction and peer pressure.
Kendrick Lamar performed “Swimming Pools” for a high school back in 2014 PIC.TWITTER.COM/UN6HQDPEDQ
— Historic Vids (@historyinmemes) MAY 14, 2024
At the beginning of the video, Lamar raps,
“shot, drink, sit down, drink,”
as if it were the beat to parting and drugs, and he then switches, saying,
“now, open your mind up”.
The rapper is warning the college students, rapping
“if you do not listen to the conscious then you will be the history”.
The strong reasoning message does not stop as Lamar words of encouragement include:
“I know that you’re not with me right now, but I’m hoping to lead you to victory”.
However, as he tries to discourage peer pressure, one can feel the internal debate through this statement:
“If I take another one down I’ma drown in some poison, and fella my limit.”
Any performance transcends the typical braggadocio of normal rap music, and rather the performance gives an opportunity to view the internal battle raging between succumbing to vice and rising above it. Lamar even acknowledges partying:
“Seen the love in her eyes, I see the feeling of freedom/It’s granted as soon as the damage of vodka put in.”.
Finally, the video ends while Lamar gives a cryptic message that may be perceived as judgmental of those parenting one kind of children or another:
“This is parental advice but apparently open floors. But what you were doing I thought I was doing the most as one said to me.”
Once again, the meaning behind this phrase is unclear, but the talking point is launched regarding modern parenthood.
The online audience has reacted positively to the surprise performance of Kendrick Lamar, and it has caused a very necessary discussion about peer pressure, addiction, and the importance of its awareness. Lamar’s hopeful and motivating voice, delivered through the rapper, is a powerful message for young people to always make a choice and listen to their inner voice.
