Kendrick Lamar's "Luther": A Critique of Drake and the Realities of Strippers

TEH

Veteran
Joined
Jul 24, 2015
Messages
47,936
Reputation
13,641
Daps
195,769
Reppin
....
Kendrick Lamar’s song "Luther" takes a hard look at how strippers are often exploited, and he subtly calls out Drake in the process. Right from the start, Kendrick paints a clear picture of life in the strip club. While Drake enjoys his glamorous lifestyle, Kendrick reminds us that the women working there are usually dealing with tough realities just to get by.

Kendrick highlights the dreams and hopes of these strippers, showing that they’re not just there for entertainment. They have their own goals and aspirations that go beyond what happens on stage. This makes us see them as real people with their own stories, not just props in someone else’s party.

SZA adds another layer to this narrative. Her voice brings empathy and understanding to the struggles these women face. SZA often sings about vulnerability and self-worth, which fits perfectly with Kendrick’s message. Together, they create a conversation that emphasizes the emotional challenges of these women, making their experiences feel more real and important.

The critique of Drake becomes clearer as Kendrick contrasts his carefree attitude with the hardships faced by the women in the club. While Drake may be a fan of Kendrick’s music, Kendrick points out that his lifestyle contributes to the very exploitation he seems to enjoy. It’s ironic—here’s someone celebrating his success while benefiting from a system that leaves others behind.

As the song goes on, Kendrick urges the strippers to think about their futures. He wants them to know they deserve more than just being part of someone else’s entertainment. This isn’t just about empowering individuals; it’s a call for all of us to recognize their worth and push for change.

In the end, Kendrick’s message is clear: strippers are not just there to entertain; they’re real people who deserve respect and better opportunities. By highlighting their struggles, Kendrick challenges us to rethink how we view them and the culture surrounding artists like Drake.

With SZA’s contribution, the narrative becomes even stronger, adding depth to the emotional side of the song. Kendrick Lamar’s "Luther" is a powerful reminder that the real stars are the ones working hard behind the scenes, and it’s time we pay attention to their stories instead of just celebrating those who exploit them.
 

TEH

Veteran
Joined
Jul 24, 2015
Messages
47,936
Reputation
13,641
Daps
195,769
Reppin
....
If this world were mine
Hey, Roman numeral seven, bae, drop it like it's hot
If this world was mine, I'd take your dreams and make 'em multiply
If this world was mine, I'd take your enemies in front of God
Introduce 'em to that light, hit them strictly with that fire
Fah-fah, fah-fah-fah, fah-fah, fah
Hey, Roman numeral seven, bae, drop it like it's hot
If this world was mine, I'd take your dreams and make 'em multiply
If this world was mine, I'd take your enemies in front of God
Introduce 'em to that light, hit them strictly with that fire
It's a vibe, do your dance, let 'em watch
She a fan, he a flop, they just wanna kumbaya, nah
In this world, concrete flowers grow
Heartache, she only doin' what she know
Weekends, get it poppin' on the low
Better days comin' for sure (if this world were)
If it was up to me
I wouldn't give these nobodies no sympathy
I'd take away the pain, I'd give you everything
I just wanna see you win, wanna see (if this world were mine)
It go in (when you), out (ride it), do it real slow (slide)
Baby, you a star, strike, pose (right)
When I'm (when you), with you (with me), everything goes (slow)
Come and (put that), put that (on my), on my (titi), soul (soul)
'Rari (red), crown (stack), wrist (stay), froze (really)
Drip (tell me), pound (if you), on the way home (love me)
In this world, concrete flowers grow
Heartache, she only doin' what she know
Weekends, get it poppin' on the low
Better days comin' for sure (if this world were)
If it was up to me
I wouldn't give these nobodies no sympathy
I'd take away the pain, I'd give you everything
I just wanna see you win, wanna see (if this world were mine)
I can't lie, I trust you, I love you, I won't waste your time
I turn it off just so I can turn you on
I'ma make you say it loud
I'm not even trippin', I won't stress you out
I might even settle down for you, I'ma show you I'm a pro
I'ma take my take my time and turn it off
Just so I can turn you on, baby
Weekends, get it poppin' on the low
Better days comin' for sure
I know you'll come
I know you're comin' for
(Anything)
If this world were mine
 

Overpss

All Star
Joined
Dec 18, 2014
Messages
799
Reputation
195
Daps
3,950
Yeah I caught that too.

And a fukking amazing song sonically, on top of that :wow:
 
  • Dap
Reactions: TEH

GunRanger

Veteran
Joined
May 17, 2014
Messages
31,054
Reputation
4,734
Daps
102,684
Drake already did this on HoustAlantaVegas 15 years ago. And again on TSU.


She moved out of state and shyt done went left, she's seekin' forgiveness
She used to dance, but she want a loan to start up a business
Her daddy is not around, her mama is not around
I watch her climb to the top of the pole and then get to slidin' down
I make it rain in this bytch, I make it snow in this bytch
She tryna get out of the mix
Shawty is goin' legit, shawty is goin' legit
Me, I'm supportin' this shyt
This is a story came from my life and I'm just recordin' this shyt



The reality is no one can make someone change, it starts within. The dichotomy is what it is. The exploitaton goes both ways.

What you want guys in a strip club to do? Tell these women they dont have to do this while they dance?
 
Last edited:

TEH

Veteran
Joined
Jul 24, 2015
Messages
47,936
Reputation
13,641
Daps
195,769
Reppin
....
Drake already did this on HoustAlantaVegas 15 years ago. And again on TSU.


She moved out of state and shyt done went left, she's seekin' forgiveness
She used to dance, but she want a loan to start up a business
Her daddy is not around, her mama is not around
I watch her climb to the top of the pole and then get to slidin' down
I make it rain in this bytch, I make it snow in this bytch
She tryna get out of the mix
Shawty is goin' legit, shawty is goin' legit
Me, I'm supportin' this shyt
This is a story came from my life and I'm just recordin' this shyt



The reality is no one can make someone change, it starts within. The dichotomy is what it is. The exploitaton goes both ways.

What you want guys in a strip club to do? Tell these women they dont have to this while they dance?

I get what you’re saying about Drake mentioning similar themes, but I think Kendrick’s "Luther" is different because it addresses the bigger issues of exploitation in the strip club scene. Drake shares individual stories, but Kendrick focuses on the struggles that many women face in this line of work.

You’re right that change has to start from within, but we also have to understand the pressures that make some women turn to stripping. Not everyone has the same opportunities, and Kendrick is encouraging these women to see their worth beyond just dancing for money.

When it comes to what guys in a strip club should do, it’s not about telling women they shouldn’t be there. It’s more about creating a respectful environment that supports their choices and acknowledges what they go through. Supporting women means helping them find better paths instead of just enjoying the show they provide.

Also, are you upset with the song itself or with someone interpreting what it means? I’m not sure I understand your point. Kendrick seems to be trying to start an important conversation here.
.
 
Top