All The Stars (feat. SZA)

Kendrick Lamar's 'All The Stars,' featuring SZA, is a song that delves into the themes of love, success, and the human ego, all under the metaphorical umbrella of the stars being closer. The song was part of the soundtrack for the 2018 film 'Black Panther,' which adds a layer of cultural significance, considering the movie's impact on the representation of African culture in mainstream media. The collaboration with SZA, an artist known for her soulful voice and introspective lyrics, complements Lamar's introspective and often socially conscious rap style.

The chorus, sung by SZA, questions the nature of love and whether it lives up to one's expectations or if it's a haunting presence. The repetition of 'All the stars are closer' suggests a moment of realization or epiphany, where dreams and aspirations seem within reach, possibly reflecting the overarching narrative of 'Black Panther' where the protagonist reaches for his destiny among the stars. This line can also be interpreted as a metaphor for fame and the realization of one's dreams, which often appear more glamorous from a distance than they are up close.

Kendrick Lamar's verses confront the darker side of success, addressing themes of entitlement, false confidence, and the corrupting influence of gifts or bribes. He expresses disdain for those who feel entitled to his success and those who offer hollow congratulations. The line 'Corrupt a man's heart with a gift' suggests that not all support is genuine and that some may try to manipulate others for their own benefit. Lamar's raw honesty about the struggles of maintaining integrity in the face of success and the pressures of expectations is a recurring theme in his work, and 'All The Stars' serves as another testament to his commitment to authenticity.