Can't agree with his opinion on music videos "Limiting" music videos and I was glad I saw your video praising music videos. Music videos supplement or even complement the music itself when done right. Thanks Nathan
it's like everything he says is good and with a perfect tone/pronunciation and with a good thought process behind it I'm not trying to take away any credit because I do understand that this videos take HUGE time and effort to make and he puts them out rather quickly Instead I am trying to say that he is hugely talented at this
Please don't forget Ariel Pink, Sufjan Stevens, Mike Patton, Kevin Barnes, Dose One, heck there's a tall list. Just because he stands over most of rap, doesn't mean that there aren't a shitload of great musicians that the world ought to know more about, but who remain in obscurity.
@@chittybangbang8370 Exactly.. I am huge Kendrick Fan and to me (personally) he is the best in his genre (hiphop) but there's a lot other great musicians out there who I think are best at THEIR genre.
Um... There is a generation full of music listeners that would disagree with this statement. He may be well developed in the contemporary American hip hop scene, but the most developed period? If we were judging all of this generation's music as a whole, i could name 5 barely known, British, indie females that are more developed and impactful than Mr. Lamar.
damn these comments in here, he is indeed the most developed one, he can sing (very well) he mastered jazz, hip hop/boom bap, trap, he mastered everything before the age of 30 and he has time to make it all again
Sgt Pepper I agree that he is the best well rounded artist from being able to have good lyrics good production good story telling and the ability to make a banger some artist are better on individual fields but he can do it all versatility
I feel like one of the most important reasons is that he works from the heart and the soul. He doesn’t do anything without intent and he doesn’t give into the temptation of fame in the way that people of that status tend to do. He stays true not only to himself but Compton, his home and family, and I think that grounds him in the most beautifully humble way. There’s nothing wrong with earning from you hard work or skill but I think that the moment you let profit or fame become a motivator it diminishes you and your genuinity which is why it’s so easy for good artists to find themselves lost or sell their soul. Not KL tho.
0:20 "most of the time". That part gave me chills, it completely summarized what the entire video is about in those four words. Kendrick is a visionary genius.
This is the kind of Old Nerd writer content that I like to see coming back. Much more in-depth and researched than most of yout recent stuff. Please keep up the good work man!
Yes new nerdwriter! Kendrick Lamar has really grown on me recently. I really enjoy some of his newest stuff. I wanted to try to cover music myself but I haven't figured out a way to work them in. Kendrick would have been a topic I would like to do.
What was said at the beginning, I kind of agree, i am not a big fan of music videos because i like to imagine what is going on in the song when I listen to it and not be shown what the song is about.
Thomas Gabby that's why I love the video for "up&up" by coldplay, such an amazing and beautiful video while still letting you determine what the song means to you, most of their videos are like that
For someone who english isn't their first language, music videos are great to give an idea of whats going on especially for rap its super useful, at least for me :)
Music always recalls different imagery for any listener - it's kind of interesting to think about any music video as just one perspective of the countless visuals that could accompany it. When you see "Official" music vids out there, it does kind of limit the viewer's imagination from the possibilities that song one had. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
I kinda agree with you. I do sometimes think that music videos do limit my sonic experience when I listen to the music. But in a sense, it is still interesting to see the artist/director's interpretation of their sonic experience through the music videos. Different people can experience music in totally different and unique ways. So I would always be interested in seeing how the vision that the artist has intended for their music to be experienced! Also, great video man! 😄😄😄
The fact that collaboration is inherent to film makes it a unique medium that, when done right, is able to go beyond what a piece of music can achieve alone. Having people on board who can pour their talents from photography, visual art, acting, writing, producing and editing into the process means you can push the boundaries of what one person could create on their own. I agree that a poor film will often limit the imaginative possibilities that you can experience while listening to a song (and I'm not normally a fan of them either), but I also love when a music video separates the song from the artist for a while. A novel, artwork, or piece of music on its own communicates the thought process and creativity of a single person. I think the reason “Element” works so well is that it makes us realise that the Kendrick’s (or any creator’s) intention is not the only valid interpretation of the music; every person that collaborated on the video came from a different background and might have had a different view on racism, rap music, and the political issues at work; the video allows all of those to come into play, aiding your imagination rather than provided a barrier to its possibilities.
Sahil Handa you should look into some of his other videos, more importantly "God is gangster". The visuals are intense and the message a bit muddled ...
Sahil Handa you should look into some of his other videos, more importantly "God is gangster". The visuals are intense and the message a bit muddled ...
Your videos have taught me so much about art, and also academic essay writing. But probably the most impactful has been your editing. You're really a masterful editor, like each episode has been a lesson in that as well as whatever it's about. Thank you for being the best educator on this platform
idk why, but I always feel like weeping by the end of your videos. idk if it's appreciation of beauty or some sort of tacit sadness that's imparted but there's so often that twinge of wanting to cry
One thing that both Kendrick and Jonas does fantastically is world building. I think this might be why, when Kendrick's music is paired with visuals, it doesn't feel limited. Whenever listening to his music, he paints a picture of his world he lives in, but also makes allusions and draws parallels to various events and people in African American/African/Biblical history. He makes his listeners not just think about him, but also makes us think about the people who are around him. There's a feeling of a larger picture that we are zoomed in on, and Lindstroem adopts that quality visually. You feel like there's still a world off-camera, and suddenly, just because a shot passes by the screen or a lyric is quickly told, you feel like they never went away. They put you in Kendrick's shoes by putting you in his thoughts and environment with an ever present consciousness of the other people in that environment we cannot see
The Divine Female is another good album with a similar vibe. I thought I wasn’t gonna like it because I’m not a fan of Mac Miller but damn...it was unexpectedly dank
@1:18 The guy featured as a collaborator who's name was left out is Robert Glasper. Of all the people in that picture, Robert is unarguably the most accomplished musician, Kendrick included.
Bro I came here to leave this exact comment. he’s an amazing artist and one of the most skilled and talented among them all. Also calling Terrace Martin a rapper is just as much of compliment as an understatement 😂😂
Every Nerdwriter video deserves a like. Everything about the production is spectacular. The talent and integrity of your work is spectacular and once i can afford it i'll definitely be becoming a patreon sponsor. Love your work, it's inspirational.
I'm pretty sure the description of "Dave Free" was for the guy on far left. There was really no other place to put it in that picture. Otherwise it would have been pushed in the corner.
This man mastered them all, jazz, boom bap, trap... he can make good videos, he can make perfect albums, he can improve songs from other artists, he can produce... and all that before the age of 30.... no one ever did what he did in 10 years ( and all the awards, 13 grammys and pulitzer award) He is the new GOAT of hip hop
Thanks, Nerdwriter. I'm a Patreon subscriber, monthly, not based on video count. I like film videos, but I love being introduced to art forms I know less about. This is a solid video essay. Keep up the great work.
Wow. That's all I can say. Great as always Nerdwriter. Love the analysis, I didn't know the artists you talked about so I learned stuff from this video. Glad you're back from vacation, can't wait for your other videos. :)
You're my favorite analyst and broader TH-camr and Kendrick might damn(.) well be my favorite artist right now for his consciousness and skill and general brilliant artistry. Watching you break down the abstract, labyrinthine world of his high art is an emotional experience rather than explicitly an intellectual one, thank you!!
You have not even a clue how much you make my horizon on art wide. I love the subjects, I love the how dip are the videos even on simple subjects. Summary whenever i go to YT i look on your channel if you posted a new video. Incredible GJ keep it going!!
you think music videos detract because most videos aren't made well. Patrick h willems video on David lynch's music video direction may help you realize why you don't often like them.
Good points on Gordon Parks' work. They allude to a popular quote/tenet in photography: "The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera." Good way of looking at art in general, but with the visual impact in photography, that principle holds a lot of value imo. Nice vid, Nerdwriter!
controversial opinion here: i disagree with you that music videos limits the power of music. Sure, some music videos are just well, moving pictures with the song reduced to bgm but being exposed to the right kind of music videos i.e. Michael Jackson's videos, it expands the sonic power that music possess. To be frank, i wouldn't let mediocre MV made by idle minds dampen the potential that music videos possess.
Isaiah Rilles I get where you're coming from, but I don't think think that exceptionalism should be what we use to define something. most music videos limit the way you can interpret the music so I think the statement is fair.
I mean, take a look at In Da Club, perfect example of how the music video made the song even better. On Fire by Lloyd Banks, dope video makes the song radiate even more. Depends on the director of the video and his ability to give the images mean and correlation to the music.
Isaiah Rilles Only a boring thinker would generalize about music videos like this. Flashing a bunch of artists who are clearly not meant to be taken "seriously" anyway- this is a pretty lame take on a medium that is as much about style, tone, brand narrative and social context as bridging some academic understanding of "poetry" to pop music. Kendrick himself certainly has made videos that are not so ambitious and some that are- it's a joke to act like this isn't part of the Kendrick "brand" while judging other artists making very different kinds of music for not trying to condense some Brooklyn art gallery into their work. There are plenty of street artists, fashion designers, and personal signifiers that constitute a standard pop music video- all of which is really just meant to entertain and give an impression of what the song looks like in the artist's head. I actually think it's absurd to believe that a person watches a music video and convinces themselves certain things are not enjoyable because there isn't a high level of ambiguity for them to brag about noticing (in an extremely branded way). This is a mindset for a monastery, not a dance club- if nerd writer wants to be like the living dead that's fine, but no one should begrudge youth who are actually experiencing themselves in moments of musical passion or otherwise
Like cinema, Music videos is a visual medium that can create stirring, memorable pop art if it is handled with a true artist's vision. Now i'm not saying that everything should be the Mona Lisa because everyone of us has their own personal taste. There are exceptions to the rule (example: Wyclef Jean- Young Thug, really cool music video) A fun song with a fun music video is already good to me but much of the ilk these days are what I call generic. I genuinely believe that some hip-hop artists make an effort to create music videos that are an extension to their music. I wouldn't mind if some music vids of an artist that I like are not that up to par because an artist's music evolves and so will the MV's. Like art, it moves you in ways you cannot imagine. In summary, there's power in the medium and i don't want to waste that potential and i don't exempt most music vids as generic, bland, mediocre etc. because there are exceptions to my own taste. I would not dismiss an MV and segregate them as prime examples of it.
not only u can me me appreciate even more the stuff I already love, helping me sometimes even undertand why I love it. but you are such a great inspirations for how to tell a story about a story. love the channel, definitely my favorite on youtube, along with vsauce. congrats man and thanks for making this. going to your patreon now to support. cheers
JebaJebaJemeh Because that channel too is similarly creative.. so I thought maybe all of us Nerdwriter fans will find some of his videos good too! Sorry
excellent work. When video essays are as well made as this one, it elevates the art. You format your observations in a way that can't be matched by many others. keep up the good work.
When I first watched the MV, I thought of how it was "a collection of moving Renaissance-inspired paintings". You explained the sentiment most eloquently, thank you~
I get this "humanity is at a very interesting shifting point and life is amazing"-goosebumps when i see the wide insights of Kendrick. I am so thankful that somebody like him becomes so important right now !
Could not agree more, Kendrick's ability to bridge the gap of culture with other creatives, to come together to make something not hindered by but improved shows a willingness to learn and challenge. It's proof that this man is not hip hops saviour but it's leading student / philosopher. One things for sure when you put Mr. Lamar on class is most definitely in session.
Im so happy you made this video man. I saw this video in January 18 and it hit me, I shared my thoughts on it with everyone I knew. The Video shows the environment of the "hood" better than any song could. The Visuals are on point, beautiful, and powerful. Thanks so much man, your videos are all awesome, ive watched them all and i connect with all of them. Keep doing what your doing man, -Joe
The image at 5:34 is a direct reference to another great photographer Elliott Erwitt. The photo is called "Walden, Colorado, USA. 1955". This is interesting because it beckons so much familiarity to Gordon Park's work. Anyways I watched this video essay the week it came out andI'mm still here always thinking about it. Shout out @NerdWriter1 !!
You are an incredible writer. The truths in your essay seem so universal, though they are just your opinion, in such a natural yet vivid way. I immediately subscribe to your reasoning and your appeals are rock solid.
UknowmeimGui Dude you need to listen through good kid, m.A.A.d city. The entire album is a work of art, in good kid, m.A.A.d city theres a narrative in the story told through the perspective of young K Dot. It tells the story of him as a good kid growing up in a mad city where when despite his parents attempts to shield him from gang violence he was peer pressured to robbing houses and eventually killing somebody. It's a story about his friend's brother getting shot, of their parents crying on the porch. It the story of his friend asking for K Dot to tell his story if he dies before K Dot makes it big. It's the story of vengeance as he remembers his cousin's death at the hands of a rival gang. It's a ride through the mad city that is Compton and the ongoing war between the pirus and crips.
How? When people still argue who out Jay-Z, Pac, Biggie, Nas, Rakim, Eminem, Big Pun, etc makes up raps objective top 5 then how can Kendrick objectively solidify his position in the top 4? Kendrick’s cool and I think objectively top ten but to specifically place anywhere within that ten would just be subjective to you
Been a fan of nerdwriter for a while...this was the first video that led me to him...i subscribed as soon as i can...he always make very well videos (editing and research)
An amazing and compelling video, very informative with unparalleled research and passion. I adore this album, this song, and especially this video. DAMN. was, in short, truly a gift. The ONLY flaw in this whole video however: 2:18 that’s not Dave Free. That’s an early photo of the members of Black Hippy: (R-L) Kendrick, ScHoolboy Q, Jay Rock, and Ab-Soul probably taken around 2010-2011.
Yevrus Gorillaz don't count because they're multimedia by definition. You can experience Gorillaz with nothing but the music and no added info, but that's missing like half the point.
Amazing video as always! I would juste like to point out that the collaborator that isn't identified in the photo is Robert Glasper, an amazing jazz pianist. He played a big role in the composition of the instrumentals on TPAB and contributed to make them so memorable!
One thing that’s so nice about your videos is that they’re concise. There’s other intelligent videos I like watching on TH-cam, but what the say in three sentences or even three minutes you can always say in one sentence or even without words.
I had an English Speech I needed to do. I usually do pretty average at English but I've been trying to get better. Your style of writing really helped me in developing my speech and getting it succinct. I got a 19/20. Thanks for the help!
Born too late to explore earth, born too early to explore space. Born just perfectly to witness Nerdwriter cover Kendrick Lamar!!
There's still a ton of stuff we haven't explored on Earth.
That was good!
Zuck That You wouldn't have explored the earth unless you were shit rich
This is some deep ass shit.
Marijuana Guy especially the ocean.
SO GLAD YOU FINALLY DID A VIDEO ON KENDRICK!
nathan zed more like nathan give me head
Can't agree with his opinion on music videos "Limiting" music videos and I was glad I saw your video praising music videos. Music videos supplement or even complement the music itself when done right. Thanks Nathan
When I wake up and see nerdwriter has a video about Kendrick my day improves 300%
Родерик Рандом I live a really great life. Good content is icing on the cake
this guy could make review about grass growing and it would still be entertaining and deep as fk
ricardo gonçalves seriously. He reviewed a movie in great depth. Forgot which one, and went to go see it. The video was better than the movie.
it's like everything he says is good and with a perfect tone/pronunciation and with a good thought process behind it
I'm not trying to take away any credit because I do understand that this videos take HUGE time and effort to make and he puts them out rather quickly
Instead I am trying to say that he is hugely talented at this
His voice and editing is so perfect.
So true...
true
Kendrick seems to be the most developed musician of this generation.
Please don't forget Ariel Pink, Sufjan Stevens, Mike Patton, Kevin Barnes, Dose One, heck there's a tall list. Just because he stands over most of rap, doesn't mean that there aren't a shitload of great musicians that the world ought to know more about, but who remain in obscurity.
@@chittybangbang8370 Exactly.. I am huge Kendrick Fan and to me (personally) he is the best in his genre (hiphop) but there's a lot other great musicians out there who I think are best at THEIR genre.
Um... There is a generation full of music listeners that would disagree with this statement. He may be well developed in the contemporary American hip hop scene, but the most developed period? If we were judging all of this generation's music as a whole, i could name 5 barely known, British, indie females that are more developed and impactful than Mr. Lamar.
@@musicface05 okay don't attribute "barely-known" and "impactful" to the same people 😂
damn these comments in here, he is indeed the most developed one, he can sing (very well) he mastered jazz, hip hop/boom bap, trap, he mastered everything before the age of 30 and he has time to make it all again
I know the word is thrown around a lot in reference to artists but i fully believe that Kendrick Lamar is a creative genius, truly the GOAT
Sgt Pepper I agree that he is the best well rounded artist from being able to have good lyrics good production good story telling and the ability to make a banger some artist are better on individual fields but he can do it all versatility
I feel like one of the most important reasons is that he works from the heart and the soul. He doesn’t do anything without intent and he doesn’t give into the temptation of fame in the way that people of that status tend to do. He stays true not only to himself but Compton, his home and family, and I think that grounds him in the most beautifully humble way. There’s nothing wrong with earning from you hard work or skill but I think that the moment you let profit or fame become a motivator it diminishes you and your genuinity which is why it’s so easy for good artists to find themselves lost or sell their soul. Not KL tho.
I know DAMN. well you didn't just do this to me. I woke up out of a deep slumber to see my favorite TH-camr make a video about my favorite rapper.
Esaí Burgos life is good...
stephenc909 Ain't that the same thing?
Horse Mann facts
Faxk man
Esaí Burgos MY EXACT REACTION
I sat in a stinky ass plastic porta-potty in 90 degree weather so I could watch this at work
Lucas Henke the fields my dude 😂
If i gotta slap the like button, i'ma make it look sexy
W
W
3 years later, still a W
4 years later, I can confirm, it's in fact a W.
0:20 "most of the time". That part gave me chills, it completely summarized what the entire video is about in those four words. Kendrick is a visionary genius.
Definitely the smooth transition to the ayy.
This is the kind of Old Nerd writer content that I like to see coming back. Much more in-depth and researched than most of yout recent stuff. Please keep up the good work man!
Rob B yes! And more analyzing art rather than politics.
Literally only two of his last ten videos were about politics.
Mechadude32 my point still stands
on crutches maybe
lol has anything changed? or are you just one of those guys that always says the old stuff is better?
This video, when it was first released, was my introduction to Kendrick Lamar. I’m very thankful you made this.
HOW COULD YOU GIVE DAMN A 7 MEL.... Oh wrong channel
Wrongthony Channtano here
Lambo baldthony damnthano here
Honestly would have given it an 8
Sure definitely on a differently level than to pimp a butterfly
But surely not a 7
Elemanthy Nerdwritano here
DAMN *MELON*
Kendrick is one of the only people that understands how to do a music video right
Just when you think this channel can't get any better, you bring out this video... your work is brilliant; the editing, the analysis, everything.
The whole element beat from start to end is unbelievably genius. The piano in chorus is just unreal.
Such a huge fan of both you and Kendrick, so I'm so happy to see a video where you discuss his work!
Wow this really encompassed the magic of Kendrick. Well done Casper man
Yes new nerdwriter! Kendrick Lamar has really grown on me recently. I really enjoy some of his newest stuff. I wanted to try to cover music myself but I haven't figured out a way to work them in. Kendrick would have been a topic I would like to do.
Ya know, I like you. I've seen you on a bunch of my fave channels and I watched your Seinfeld video. Keep working, man. Build your way up. Subscribed.
Thanks man. I appreciate the sub. We probably have a bunch of the same favorite channels. lol. Been working hard on content.
Before The Credits I'm here for the hot chicks
Do TPAB. Its full of shit you can talk about.
Before The Credits lol he had to grow on you? boy...
Love your vids. But you incorrectly labelled schoolboy q as Dave Free
Wooo!!! I've been waiting for you to do a Kendrick video for SO. LONG. 🙌
this was super dope. really appreciated the perspective
Kendrick Lamar has got to be one of the best rappers of this era. Most of his songs never disappoint.
Jonathan Mulondo bro try best of all time
Ugh 😑
Crown Red True, but Kendrick can't be the only good one of his generation
Jonathan Mulondo joey badass
Joey up there, but he got like 2 great albums and Kendrick got 4 so to me it's hard to compare
THAT WASN'T DAVE FREE AT 2:17, THAT WAS SCHOOLBOY Q BACK WHEN HE WAS SKINNY BRO
jimmy97 LMAO WHAT DID SCHOOL BOY EAT.
Chill
What was said at the beginning, I kind of agree, i am not a big fan of music videos because i like to imagine what is going on in the song when I listen to it and not be shown what the song is about.
Thomas Gabby maybe videos ought to just set a tone. Like Radiohead videos.
Thomas Gabby that's why I love the video for "up&up" by coldplay, such an amazing and beautiful video while still letting you determine what the song means to you, most of their videos are like that
For someone who english isn't their first language, music videos are great to give an idea of whats going on especially for rap its super useful, at least for me :)
Music always recalls different imagery for any listener - it's kind of interesting to think about any music video as just one perspective of the countless visuals that could accompany it. When you see "Official" music vids out there, it does kind of limit the viewer's imagination from the possibilities that song one had. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Don't be a nimrod. Use your brain space. Watch the videos for what they are and use your imagination for what it can do.
I kinda agree with you. I do sometimes think that music videos do limit my sonic experience when I listen to the music. But in a sense, it is still interesting to see the artist/director's interpretation of their sonic experience through the music videos. Different people can experience music in totally different and unique ways. So I would always be interested in seeing how the vision that the artist has intended for their music to be experienced!
Also, great video man! 😄😄😄
The fact that collaboration is inherent to film makes it a unique medium that, when done right, is able to go beyond what a piece of music can achieve alone. Having people on board who can pour their talents from photography, visual art, acting, writing, producing and editing into the process means you can push the boundaries of what one person could create on their own. I agree that a poor film will often limit the imaginative possibilities that you can experience while listening to a song (and I'm not normally a fan of them either), but I also love when a music video separates the song from the artist for a while. A novel, artwork, or piece of music on its own communicates the thought process and creativity of a single person. I think the reason “Element” works so well is that it makes us realise that the Kendrick’s (or any creator’s) intention is not the only valid interpretation of the music; every person that collaborated on the video came from a different background and might have had a different view on racism, rap music, and the political issues at work; the video allows all of those to come into play, aiding your imagination rather than provided a barrier to its possibilities.
Sahil Handa Well said.
Sahil Handa you should look into some of his other videos, more importantly "God is gangster". The visuals are intense and the message a bit muddled ...
Sahil Handa you should look into some of his other videos, more importantly "God is gangster". The visuals are intense and the message a bit muddled ...
Your videos have taught me so much about art, and also academic essay writing. But probably the most impactful has been your editing. You're really a masterful editor, like each episode has been a lesson in that as well as whatever it's about. Thank you for being the best educator on this platform
had to grab the lotion for this one.
Try Hard I had to call my uncle and tell him to grab the lotion
If I gotta grab the lotion for this one Imma make it look sexy
Try Hard Nice.
Wanted to like your comment but didnt want to ruin the 420
I respect it.
idk why, but I always feel like weeping by the end of your videos. idk if it's appreciation of beauty or some sort of tacit sadness that's imparted but there's so often that twinge of wanting to cry
if i gotta click on a video, imma make it look sexy.
Oh shit youre that guy!!!!
whoop
That Guy Aye
if i got press hard on a like, imma make it look sexy.
like pull up like it logoff made it look sexy.
In 22 seconds, Nerdwriter kills it. I come back to this every couple of months to experience his videos again and nerd out
My dad is making a video about my dad... OH HELL YEAH
Zomvlogger two dads?
Gin it's 2017
didn't expect this to be sponsored by Casper though lol...
This video got me into Kendrick, thanks for that.
duuuuude you're getting so smooth with these man. You're just killing it with these lately.
@2:17, that's scHoolboy Q not Dave Free
One thing that both Kendrick and Jonas does fantastically is world building. I think this might be why, when Kendrick's music is paired with visuals, it doesn't feel limited. Whenever listening to his music, he paints a picture of his world he lives in, but also makes allusions and draws parallels to various events and people in African American/African/Biblical history. He makes his listeners not just think about him, but also makes us think about the people who are around him. There's a feeling of a larger picture that we are zoomed in on, and Lindstroem adopts that quality visually. You feel like there's still a world off-camera, and suddenly, just because a shot passes by the screen or a lyric is quickly told, you feel like they never went away. They put you in Kendrick's shoes by putting you in his thoughts and environment with an ever present consciousness of the other people in that environment we cannot see
if you liked the music vibe on to pimp a butterfly, i'd highly recommend checking out Thundercats music. His latest album also features Kendrick!
derp derper yeah Drunk is awesome!
The Divine Female is another good album with a similar vibe. I thought I wasn’t gonna like it because I’m not a fan of Mac Miller but damn...it was unexpectedly dank
Kaizer-Man The Divine Femini, but youre right, its good
can you talk about childish gambino
Ricky Estavez Childish Gambino is a joke the only serious album he's put out is Awaken My Love
+It's not Jack that could be what Ricky is asking about (i agree w you btw)
It's not Jack I disagree with you
Watch the kaptainkristian video about childish gambino
@Yung Asian God
You probably ain't heard of "Because the Internet"? Its an underrated work of art.
@1:18 The guy featured as a collaborator who's name was left out is Robert Glasper. Of all the people in that picture, Robert is unarguably the most accomplished musician, Kendrick included.
Bro I came here to leave this exact comment. he’s an amazing artist and one of the most skilled and talented among them all. Also calling Terrace Martin a rapper is just as much of compliment as an understatement 😂😂
Every Nerdwriter video deserves a like. Everything about the production is spectacular. The talent and integrity of your work is spectacular and once i can afford it i'll definitely be becoming a patreon sponsor. Love your work, it's inspirational.
That's not Dave Free. That's Schoolboy Q.
bernard ansa let em slide this time lol
oh shit haha, yeah that deserves an annotation.
I'm pretty sure the description of "Dave Free" was for the guy on far left. There was really no other place to put it in that picture. Otherwise it would have been pushed in the corner.
bernard ansa ikr!! This dumbass
Kristaps Vaivars... lol, no that picture is black hippy. kendrick, schoolboy q, jay rock, and ab-soul. in that order
This man mastered them all, jazz, boom bap, trap... he can make good videos, he can make perfect albums, he can improve songs from other artists, he can produce... and all that before the age of 30.... no one ever did what he did in 10 years ( and all the awards, 13 grammys and pulitzer award) He is the new GOAT of hip hop
That ain't Dave Free. That's ScHoolboy Q.
I stopped watching after that tbh
I was about to say...
You should look where he places the namecards and than rethink your statement
@2:16 from left to right - Kendrick Lamar, Schoolboy Q, Jay Rock, and Ab Soul. Dave Free is nowhere in the picture.
Fuck you are right! Damn, was he thin then.
Thanks, Nerdwriter. I'm a Patreon subscriber, monthly, not based on video count. I like film videos, but I love being introduced to art forms I know less about. This is a solid video essay. Keep up the great work.
This is amazing i have CHILLS
Wow.
That's all I can say. Great as always Nerdwriter. Love the analysis, I didn't know the artists you talked about so I learned stuff from this video. Glad you're back from vacation, can't wait for your other videos. :)
Video Idea: philosophy through cinematography: Collateral
You're my favorite analyst and broader TH-camr and Kendrick might damn(.) well be my favorite artist right now for his consciousness and skill and general brilliant artistry. Watching you break down the abstract, labyrinthine world of his high art is an emotional experience rather than explicitly an intellectual one, thank you!!
watch this video and at the end I was like : "Damn."
You have not even a clue how much you make my horizon on art wide. I love the subjects, I love the how dip are the videos even on simple subjects. Summary whenever i go to YT i look on your channel if you posted a new video. Incredible GJ keep it going!!
what i took from this episode is to buy a Casper mattress
it looks super comfortable tho lol
Listened to this album practically on repeat for the last 2 weeks and Nerdwriter1 gives me this bloody gem. Thanks man.
you think music videos detract because most videos aren't made well. Patrick h willems video on David lynch's music video direction may help you realize why you don't often like them.
Good points on Gordon Parks' work. They allude to a popular quote/tenet in photography: "The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera." Good way of looking at art in general, but with the visual impact in photography, that principle holds a lot of value imo. Nice vid, Nerdwriter!
controversial opinion here: i disagree with you that music videos limits the power of music. Sure, some music videos are just well, moving pictures with the song reduced to bgm but being exposed to the right kind of music videos i.e. Michael Jackson's videos, it expands the sonic power that music possess. To be frank, i wouldn't let mediocre MV made by idle minds dampen the potential that music videos possess.
Isaiah Rilles I get where you're coming from, but I don't think think that exceptionalism should be what we use to define something. most music videos limit the way you can interpret the music so I think the statement is fair.
I mean, take a look at In Da Club, perfect example of how the music video made the song even better. On Fire by Lloyd Banks, dope video makes the song radiate even more. Depends on the director of the video and his ability to give the images mean and correlation to the music.
Isaiah Rilles Only a boring thinker would generalize about music videos like this. Flashing a bunch of artists who are clearly not meant to be taken "seriously" anyway- this is a pretty lame take on a medium that is as much about style, tone, brand narrative and social context as bridging some academic understanding of "poetry" to pop music. Kendrick himself certainly has made videos that are not so ambitious and some that are- it's a joke to act like this isn't part of the Kendrick "brand" while judging other artists making very different kinds of music for not trying to condense some Brooklyn art gallery into their work. There are plenty of street artists, fashion designers, and personal signifiers that constitute a standard pop music video- all of which is really just meant to entertain and give an impression of what the song looks like in the artist's head. I actually think it's absurd to believe that a person watches a music video and convinces themselves certain things are not enjoyable because there isn't a high level of ambiguity for them to brag about noticing (in an extremely branded way). This is a mindset for a monastery, not a dance club- if nerd writer wants to be like the living dead that's fine, but no one should begrudge youth who are actually experiencing themselves in moments of musical passion or otherwise
Like cinema, Music videos is a visual medium that can create stirring, memorable pop art if it is handled with a true artist's vision. Now i'm not saying that everything should be the Mona Lisa because everyone of us has their own personal taste. There are exceptions to the rule (example: Wyclef Jean- Young Thug, really cool music video) A fun song with a fun music video is already good to me but much of the ilk these days are what I call generic. I genuinely believe that some hip-hop artists make an effort to create music videos that are an extension to their music. I wouldn't mind if some music vids of an artist that I like are not that up to par because an artist's music evolves and so will the MV's. Like art, it moves you in ways you cannot imagine. In summary, there's power in the medium and i don't want to waste that potential and i don't exempt most music vids as generic, bland, mediocre etc. because there are exceptions to my own taste. I would not dismiss an MV and segregate them as prime examples of it.
Isaiah Rilles or any David Fincher directed music video..... they compliment the songs very well
not only u can me me appreciate even more the stuff I already love, helping me sometimes even undertand why I love it. but you are such a great inspirations for how to tell a story about a story. love the channel, definitely my favorite on youtube, along with vsauce. congrats man and thanks for making this. going to your patreon now to support. cheers
To everyone who loves Nerdwriter just check out a channel called 'Just Write'.
Its not mine, I think you'll like it!
Mr IY why should we then?
JebaJebaJemeh Because that channel too is similarly creative.. so I thought maybe all of us Nerdwriter fans will find some of his videos good too! Sorry
Mr IY Awesome recommendation. That channel is fantastic.
Mr IY scripted
I appreciate you nerding out on stuff I'm not familiar with, and making it interesting. Thank you dude!
Woah. Such great content. 👏
I've seen a lot of commercials for Casper mattresses before. This one is the best. Also, another great video. Thanks Nerdwriter1.
Just me, or would anyone else say Terrace Martin is known more for his producing and alto sax credits rather than rapping?
yes and that was an old photo of Schoolboy Q who was credited as Dave Free. (They look nothing alike btw)
excellent work. When video essays are as well made as this one, it elevates the art. You format your observations in a way that can't be matched by many others. keep up the good work.
hooly shiit I been waiting for this
When I first watched the MV, I thought of how it was "a collection of moving Renaissance-inspired paintings". You explained the sentiment most eloquently, thank you~
No tag for Glasper in the photo at 1:15?
I get this "humanity is at a very interesting shifting point and life is amazing"-goosebumps when i see the wide insights of Kendrick. I am so thankful that somebody like him becomes so important right now !
i loved this video, please do one for frank ocean !
Could not agree more, Kendrick's ability to bridge the gap of culture with other creatives, to come together to make something not hindered by but improved shows a willingness to learn and challenge. It's proof that this man is not hip hops saviour but it's leading student / philosopher. One things for sure when you put Mr. Lamar on class is most definitely in session.
damn.
i don't think that everybody consider your vids like art, but to me, you're my fav artist
I see you Buzzing fox news at 1:08 I give you a like you deserve it...
Im so happy you made this video man. I saw this video in January 18 and it hit me, I shared my thoughts on it with everyone I knew. The Video shows the environment of the "hood" better than any song could. The Visuals are on point, beautiful, and powerful. Thanks so much man, your videos are all awesome, ive watched them all and i connect with all of them. Keep doing what your doing man, -Joe
any chance you will Baby Driver next? Edgar Wright did it again!
Roman Nardone wtf no
Roman Nardone has to wait till it comes out on blue ray to use footage
Always love seeing a Nerdwriter video in my subscriptions. Good shit!
I absolutely loved this.
The image at 5:34 is a direct reference to another great photographer Elliott Erwitt. The photo is called "Walden, Colorado, USA. 1955".
This is interesting because it beckons so much familiarity to Gordon Park's work.
Anyways I watched this video essay the week it came out andI'mm still here always thinking about it. Shout out @NerdWriter1 !!
You forgot to mention Robert Glasper in the collaboration picture... Why?!
SenorCitrone Thinking the same thing. Disrespectful man
Herbie Hancock pfp... nice!
I dont usually think to like videos, but this one really stood out in quality. Probably your best essay so far, fantastic.
Do one on Radiohead.
You are an incredible writer. The truths in your essay seem so universal, though they are just your opinion, in such a natural yet vivid way. I immediately subscribe to your reasoning and your appeals are rock solid.
I'm not a big fan of Kendrick, but he's clearly an artist
UknowmeimGui Dude you need to listen through good kid, m.A.A.d city. The entire album is a work of art, in good kid, m.A.A.d city theres a narrative in the story told through the perspective of young K Dot. It tells the story of him as a good kid growing up in a mad city where when despite his parents attempts to shield him from gang violence he was peer pressured to robbing houses and eventually killing somebody. It's a story about his friend's brother getting shot, of their parents crying on the porch. It the story of his friend asking for K Dot to tell his story if he dies before K Dot makes it big. It's the story of vengeance as he remembers his cousin's death at the hands of a rival gang. It's a ride through the mad city that is Compton and the ongoing war between the pirus and crips.
It's not Jack that's the only album I like from Kendrick. Since then, I haven't liked any of his stuff.
It's not Jack GKMC is the one Kendrick album I haven't properly listened to. But that was a great summary and I have to listen to it now.
It's not Jack You didn't like TPAB? :'(
You do realise that you essentially just said "im not a fan but he clearly makes music"
What a thoughtful and well researched piece. LOVING your work man (also loving the varied subject matter). Awesome stuff man!
He's Gonna go down as top 4 when he's done, watch
How? When people still argue who out Jay-Z, Pac, Biggie, Nas, Rakim, Eminem, Big Pun, etc makes up raps objective top 5 then how can Kendrick objectively solidify his position in the top 4? Kendrick’s cool and I think objectively top ten but to specifically place anywhere within that ten would just be subjective to you
Kaizer-Man cause all his albums are classics
The subtitles at 4:10 just earned my respect.
Actually fr
I'm waiting for the joint album with J Cole
david Kealey I thought he was but what happened I thought he wasn't doing it anymore
GOOD
it was never even confirmed by either of them lmao. the whole thing was/is an accidental internet rumor. it won't come.
i mean they pretty much said in black friday that they were doing a joint project
"When you and K. Dot shit dropping?
Bitch never, they can’t handle two Black niggas this clever"
Black Friday freestyle
Been a fan of nerdwriter for a while...this was the first video that led me to him...i subscribed as soon as i can...he always make very well videos (editing and research)
DAMN. this video it great!
An amazing and compelling video, very informative with unparalleled research and passion. I adore this album, this song, and especially this video. DAMN. was, in short, truly a gift.
The ONLY flaw in this whole video however: 2:18 that’s not Dave Free. That’s an early photo of the members of Black Hippy: (R-L) Kendrick, ScHoolboy Q, Jay Rock, and Ab-Soul probably taken around 2010-2011.
what happened to a video on every wednesdays ??
Every video you make seems to make me fall in love with its subject. I don't know how you do it, man, but don't stop.
Watch the Gorillaz - Saturn Barz video
Yevrus Gorillaz don't count because they're multimedia by definition. You can experience Gorillaz with nothing but the music and no added info, but that's missing like half the point.
Amazing video as always! I would juste like to point out that the collaborator that isn't identified in the photo is Robert Glasper, an amazing jazz pianist. He played a big role in the composition of the instrumentals on TPAB and contributed to make them so memorable!
Still can't believe Logan Paul called out Kendrick...
Daniel Kouba how can you call him out 😂 that dude is a fucking idiot
It's just hilarious that he thinks he's on the same level as Kendrick.
Daniel Kouba yo I don't believe u there's no way he did call out Kendrick ....... u sure
positive
One thing that’s so nice about your videos is that they’re concise. There’s other intelligent videos I like watching on TH-cam, but what the say in three sentences or even three minutes you can always say in one sentence or even without words.
how about talking about beyonces visual albums first?
tabeazoe I feel like Kendrick's videos have much more meaning than hers, not saying her videos aren't good.
was that a joke
I had an English Speech I needed to do. I usually do pretty average at English but I've been trying to get better. Your style of writing really helped me in developing my speech and getting it succinct. I got a 19/20. Thanks for the help!
"Videos close down the possible ways I can experience music". Wow, I think by now you are pretty much a parody of yourself.
FLCL is garbage.
I love how your channel is not predictable!