The Meaning Behind The Song: Complexion (A Zulu Love) by Kendrick Lamar
The Deeper Meaning Behind “Complexion (A Zulu Love)” by Kendrick Lamar
Table of Contents
Introduction
Kendrick Lamar, one of the most influential rappers of our time, has a unique ability to weave social commentary into his music. His song “Complexion (A Zulu Love)” from his album “To Pimp a Butterfly” is no exception. While the song may initially seem to be about skin color, it has a much deeper meaning that speaks to societal issues surrounding beauty standards and racism.
The Importance of Beauty Standards
In the opening lines of the song, Kendrick sets the tone by rapping, “Dark as the midnight hour or bright as the mornin’ sun / Give a f*ck about your complexion, I know what the Germans done.” This line speaks to the beauty standards that have been perpetuated over time, which often favor lighter skin tones. This preference for lighter skin is not only limited to Western cultures but can be found globally in places like India, where skin lightening creams are popular.
Breaking Down Racism
In the second verse, Kendrick raps, “The blacker the berry, the sweeter the juice / A kid dies, the blacker the killer, the sweeter the news.” These lines illustrate the power dynamic in society and how it often favors people who are lighter-skinned. When it comes to criminal justice, people with darker skin are often seen as more threatening or guilty. This differential treatment can be seen in the disproportionate number of black men who are incarcerated compared to men of other races.
Zulu Love
The title of the song, “Complexion (A Zulu Love),” is a nod to the Zulu tribe in South Africa. Kendrick is highlighting the beauty of blackness and challenging the idea that lighter skin is more beautiful. The Zulu tribe has a rich cultural heritage, and Kendrick is using their customs and traditions to illustrate the beauty of darker skin tones.
The Role of Education
In the bridge of the song, Rapsody, a female rapper, delivers a powerful flow about education. She raps, “Afraid of your melanin, the skin is what you’re in / But see, the devil is in the tone he injects / Color complex is a dialogue that we neglect / Look in the mirror, see the signs resemble Kenya’s Crest.” Her lines speak to the need for education and awareness surrounding racism and colorism. Through education, we can learn to appreciate the diversity of human skin color and change the narrative surrounding beauty standards.
The Legacy of Oppression
In the third verse, Kendrick raps, “Institutionalized manipulation and lies / Reciprocation of freedom only live in your eyes.” These words highlight the legacy of oppression that black people have faced for centuries. The narrative that lighter skin is better has been perpetuated for centuries, and it will take a conscious effort to change it. If we don’t address the root causes of colorism, such as systemic racism and oppression, we won’t be able to have true and lasting change.
Conclusion
“Complexion (A Zulu Love)” may initially seem like a song about skin color, but it is much deeper than that. Kendrick Lamar is using the power of his words to challenge beauty standards and break down racism. He is calling for education and awareness surrounding colorism and asking us to look at ourselves and the world around us. By doing so, we can begin to build a more equitable and just society that celebrates the diversity of all people, no matter their skin color.
