Wat's Wrong (feat. Kendrick Lamar & Zacari)
Isaiah Rashad
Navigating Life's Chaos: A Deep Dive into 'Wat's Wrong'
Isaiah Rashad's 'Wat's Wrong,' featuring Kendrick Lamar and Zacari, is a profound exploration of personal struggles, societal pressures, and the quest for self-identity. The song opens with Rashad reflecting on his own missteps and the cyclical nature of his life. He mentions cutting his hair and bumping his head, symbolizing a fresh start marred by immediate setbacks. The lyrics delve into themes of sin, redemption, and the constant battle to stay afloat in a world that often feels overwhelming. Rashad's use of metaphors like 'Kaio Ken' and 'big old rims' juxtaposes the mundane with the extraordinary, highlighting the duality of his existence.
Kendrick Lamar's verse adds another layer of complexity, addressing the duality of his own nature and the societal expectations placed upon him. He speaks of the pressures of fame, the struggle to maintain authenticity, and the impact of his actions on those around him. Lamar's reference to 'Kool-Aid and God's son' juxtaposes the simplicity of childhood with the weight of spiritual and social responsibility. His lines about staying in the Trump Tower and spray-painting the walls serve as a metaphor for rebellion against oppressive systems, while also acknowledging the contradictions inherent in his own life.
Zacari's chorus ties the song together, expressing a sense of being overwhelmed and the need for escapism. The repeated lines about getting ahead of oneself and running in circles capture the essence of the human condition—constantly striving, often failing, but always pushing forward. The act of 'rolling another one' and putting it all in the air symbolizes a temporary release from these pressures, a momentary escape from the chaos. The song, as a whole, serves as a poignant commentary on the complexities of modern life, the search for meaning, and the resilience required to navigate it all.