“Money Trees (OG)” is a portrayal of the struggles and aspirations in a life overshadowed by poverty and crime. Lamar dives into the harsh realities of his environment, expressing a deep yearning for a better life. The song is a reflection on the impact of socio-economic circumstances on personal choices and the pursuit of wealth as a means to escape them. It’s about a community’s shared experience, capturing the complex dynamics of hope, desperation, and the pursuit of material success.
Ever wonder what lies beneath the hard-hitting beats and smooth flow of Kendrick Lamar’s “Money Trees (OG)”? The song isn’t just a catchy tune; it’s a deep dive into the heart of urban life, a story told through the lens of raw lyrics and vivid imagery.
“Money Trees (OG)” Lyrics Meaning
The opening lines, “Me and my niggas tryna get it, ya bish,” set the stage for a story of survival and ambition. Lamar talks about home invasions as a means to an end, highlighting the desperation that drives people to crime. The mention of “nine-to-five I know it’s vacant” reflects the reality of unemployment and the allure of quick money.
Lamar then shifts to personal experiences, reflecting on his youth and the influences around him. The lines “Dreams of living life like rappers do” and “Back when condom wrappers wasn’t cool” are a nod to the aspirations and recklessness of youth. He talks about mundane details like eating Top Ramen, which adds a layer of authenticity to his storytelling.
The chorus, “Money trees is the perfect place for shade,” is metaphorical. It suggests that financial success is seen as a shelter or escape from the harsh realities of life. Lamar contrasts this with the stark reality, “But the one in front of the gun lives forever,” underscoring the permanence of the choices made in pursuit of money.
As the song progresses, Lamar delves deeper into the impact of poverty and violence. Lines like “Two bullets in my Uncle Tony head” and “That Louis Burgers never be the same” are poignant reminders of the personal cost of living in such an environment.
Throughout the song, Lamar uses a mix of harsh realities and aspirational dreams to paint a picture of life in his community. He juxtaposes images of violence and crime with hopes of wealth and success, capturing the complexity and duality of striving for a better life amidst adversity.
The Story Behind “Money Trees (OG)”
Kendrick Lamar’s “Money Trees (OG)” is rooted in his personal experiences growing up in Compton, a city known for its poverty and gang violence. The song reflects the state of mind of someone who has witnessed the harsh realities of life from a young age.
Lamar’s lyrics often draw from his observations and experiences, providing a window into his world. In “Money Trees (OG)”, he is not just sharing a story; he’s inviting listeners into the struggles and dreams that shaped him. His words’ vivid imagery and raw emotion come from a place of authenticity.
The line “Dreams of living life like rappers do” suggests a longing for a better life, a common theme in environments where opportunities are scarce. Lamar’s portrayal of daily life in his community, with references to home invasions and witnessing violence, paints a picture of the desperation that can arise from poverty and lack of options.
“Money Trees (OG)” is a reflection of Lamar’s journey. It’s about how his environment influenced his perspective and his music. The song captures the essence of a young man’s struggle to find his path in a world where the lines between right and wrong are often blurred by necessity and ambition.