Kendrick Lamar Teaches How To Write Rap Songs Faster In 3 Steps

Summary

In this insightful discussion, Kendrick Lamar emphasizes the relentless drive required for success in rap and creative endeavors. He shares his journey of accumulating unreleased tracks and stresses the importance of an obsessive mindset over waiting for inspiration. Lamar advocates for building a library of song ideas to enhance creativity and urges artists to seize collaborative opportunities to sharpen their skills. He highlights the significance of authenticity in songwriting, suggesting that being honest about personal experiences leads to a more fluid writing process. Ultimately, Lamar's approach combines hard work, preparation, and genuine expression to master the craft of rap.

Takeaways

• 😀 Obsession leads to inspiration; don't wait for ideas—actively seek them out.
• 🎵 Build an idea library by saving song titles and concepts you find inspiring.
• 🤝 Command your collaborations by being ready to write on demand in studio settings.
• 💯 Authenticity is crucial; share your personal experiences to connect with your audience.
• 🚀 Cultivate a strong work ethic to enhance your creative output and songwriting skills.
• ⏰ The best artists write quickly and efficiently, so practice writing under pressure.
• 🔍 Embrace honesty in your lyrics to make the writing process more enjoyable.
• 💡 Use screenshots or notes to remember inspiring ideas for future writing sessions.
• 🌟 Collaborate with artists you respect to push yourself and grow as a musician.
• 🏆 The mindset of continuous growth is key to remaining relevant and successful in the industry.

Q & A

What is Kendrick Lamar's perspective on waiting for inspiration when writing rap songs?

Kendrick emphasizes that waiting for inspiration is not the best approach. Instead, he advocates for an obsessive mindset where artists actively seek out ideas and push themselves to write consistently.

Why does Kendrick Lamar consider maintaining an idea library important for songwriters?

Having an idea library allows artists to quickly access song titles and concepts they find inspiring, reducing the time spent on generating new ideas and enhancing the efficiency of their writing process.

What advice does Kendrick give regarding collaboration with other artists?

Kendrick advises that artists should be prepared to contribute to collaborations on demand. This not only helps to build their reputation but also challenges them to write efficiently under pressure.

How does Kendrick Lamar view authenticity in songwriting?

He believes that authenticity and honesty are crucial. Writing from personal experiences makes the creative process easier and more enjoyable, allowing for a deeper connection with the audience.

What role does an obsessive mindset play in Kendrick's writing process?

An obsessive mindset is essential for continuously searching for inspiration and ideas. It encourages artists to be proactive in their writing rather than reactive, which can lead to greater creativity and productivity.

How does Kendrick suggest artists deal with writer's block?

Kendrick recommends that artists focus on their own stories and experiences rather than trying to meet public expectations. This shift towards honesty can help alleviate writer's block.

What is the significance of being prepared in a studio setting according to Kendrick?

Being prepared in the studio means being able to write quickly and effectively when opportunities arise. This readiness can lead to successful collaborations and potentially hit tracks.

What common mistake do new artists make when collaborating?

Many new artists tend to seek collaborations only with larger, more established artists for exposure or surround themselves with a crew that may not contribute creatively, which can limit their growth.

What does Kendrick mean by 'commanding every collaboration'?

To 'command every collaboration' means to take charge of the creative process during collaborative sessions, showcasing one's skills and ensuring that they can contribute meaningfully and quickly.

How can honesty in lyrics improve a rapper's writing process?

When artists write honestly, they often find the writing process more fluid and liberating, which can lead to better songs and a stronger connection with their audience.