The Legacy of “HUMBLE.”: Kendrick Lamar’s Visual Masterpiece Reaches a Billion Views
October 8, 2024
Kendrick Lamar’s “HUMBLE.” music video has achieved a major milestone, surpassing one billion views on YouTube. This accomplishment not only cements Kendrick’s place as one of the most influential voices in contemporary music but also underscores the enduring impact of the song and its visual storytelling.
Released as the lead single from his 2017 album DAMN., “HUMBLE.” was an immediate success, debuting at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and eventually reaching number one. The album itself, known for its introspective lyrics and innovative production, won Kendrick a Pulitzer Prize for Music—making him the first non-classical or jazz artist to receive the honor. The music video, co-directed by Dave Meyers and The Little Homies (Kendrick Lamar and Dave Free), is filled with powerful imagery, symbolic juxtapositions, and stark cinematography that perfectly complement the themes of the song.
From the opening shot of Kendrick clad in religious robes under a spotlight—a nod to religious iconography—to scenes that reference Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, the video combines elements of art, culture, and self-reflection. The contrasting visuals—like Kendrick’s head being engulfed in flames and him rapping atop a car surrounded by dancers—speak to the inner conflict between humility and hubris, an overarching theme of the song. Such bold choices in visual representation helped “HUMBLE.” stand out among the music videos of its time and contributed to its widespread acclaim
Impression
The billion-view milestone marks Kendrick’s third music video to reach this number, following his feature in Taylor Swift’s “Bad Blood” and his collaboration with Travis Scott on “Goosebumps.” However, it’s his first solo video to achieve such massive viewership. This is particularly significant as “HUMBLE.” serves as a quintessential example of how Kendrick has mastered the art of combining impactful lyricism with equally powerful visuals.
As one of the lead tracks from DAMN., “HUMBLE.” represents Kendrick’s confrontation with self-image and societal expectations. The lyrics urge listeners—and perhaps Kendrick himself—to stay grounded in the face of success and external validation. The chorus, “Sit down, be humble,” became an anthem, not just for the year of its release but for a generation grappling with issues of authenticity and ego.
The music video’s success can also be attributed to its directorial brilliance. Dave Meyers, known for his work with artists like Missy Elliott and OutKast, collaborated with Kendrick and Dave Free to create a visual experience that transcends the typical rap video format. The striking use of wide-angle lenses, exaggerated perspectives, and meticulously crafted set pieces add layers of meaning to an already complex song.
Beyond its technical achievements, the video’s popularity speaks to its cultural resonance. When DAMN. was released, Kendrick was already celebrated for his politically charged and socially conscious work on albums like “To Pimp a Butterfly” and “good kid, m.A.A.d city”. However, DAMN. saw Kendrick taking a more personal approach, exploring themes of faith, humility, and identity through a deeply introspective lens. “HUMBLE.”, with its infectious beat and provocative lyrics, quickly became a cultural touchstone, further solidifying Kendrick’s role as a voice for the marginalized and the misunderstood.
In the years since its release, “HUMBLE.” has been used in a variety of contexts—from sports events and commercials to political protests. The song’s central message of humility in the face of adversity has resonated across different audiences, making it a mainstay in popular culture. Its one billion views on YouTube is not just a reflection of its commercial success but also an indication of its lasting influence.
Kendrick’s Next Chapter
Kendrick’s recent achievements, including his appointment as the headliner for the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show, signal a new phase in his career. As he continues to evolve as an artist, it’s likely that his future projects will build on the legacy established by tracks like “HUMBLE.” and albums like DAMN. His creative partnership with Dave Free through their multi-disciplinary media company pgLang has already hinted at new directions for Kendrick’s art, including a greater focus on visual storytelling.
As Kendrick Lamar moves forward, his work continues to challenge and redefine the boundaries of what hip-hop can be. “HUMBLE.” and its video serve as a testament to his ability to push artistic boundaries while maintaining a deep connection with his audience. The milestone of one billion views is a fitting tribute to an artist who, despite his tremendous success, constantly reminds us all to “sit down” and reflect on what truly matters.
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