Squabble Up Lyrics – Kendrick Lamar

Squabble Up Lyrics Meaning

[Intro]
Kendrick starts by reflecting on rebirth and spiritual renewal. The mention of stargazing suggests a moment of contemplation about life and the universe. Despite life moving on, he’s focused on providing for his loved ones, showing his grounded priorities.

[Verse 1]
Here, Kendrick mixes playful metaphors and a confident tone to assert his dominance. “Looking for the broccoli” references wealth or success, and “horn on me, that Kamasi” nods to the jazz influence in his artistry. He emphasizes his independence by controlling his intellectual property and being the architect of his success. The “music makes me dance” line is both literal and metaphorical, hinting at his passion for creativity. Kendrick also portrays himself as untouchable, with his resources (“money and power”) and readiness to face challenges head-on, keeping his energy dynamic and electrifying.

[Chorus]
The chorus is a bold declaration of Kendrick’s self-assuredness. He feels unstoppable, dismisses negativity, and walks away victorious (“with the safe”). He keeps things moving forward, asking for the next step or challenge (“let me know the play”).

[Verse 2]
Kendrick highlights his success, talking about the effort it took to get there. The “new paper cuts” symbolize constant work leading to financial gain. Friends and foes don’t faze him, as he sees through their vulnerability. He describes handling his enemies with ease, painting himself as unrelenting and driven. The “money tree” metaphor reflects his wealth’s steady growth, while his rebellious streak comes through with the visual of spitting at the camera before making an audacious exit, reinforcing his bold, unfiltered persona.

[Post-Chorus]
The repeated “squabble up” is a rallying cry, urging listeners to step up, face challenges, and fight for what they believe in. It’s empowering and combative, matching the song’s energy.

[Bridge]
The bridge shifts to a more playful tone, showcasing Kendrick hyping himself up and calling out his surroundings. He’s unapologetically bold, ready to go wild and take risks, with “on one” indicating he’s fully in his zone.

[Verse 3]
This verse dives deeper into Kendrick’s raw observations and experiences. He points out how people fake toughness (“woof tickets”) until challenged and critiques those who contradict their criminal image by cooperating with singerities. The imagery of a “ghetto child” indulging in vices reflects his origins and the realities of growing up in challenging environments. He flexes his influence, dismissing others’ attempts to exploit his success, and aligns himself with loyalty and authenticity, stretching from the Westside to Senegal. The “full moon” and “wolves” reference his feral determination, as he concludes with his ever-present, unrelenting energy.

[Chorus]
The repeated chorus reinforces his confidence and determination, dismissing negativity while staying focused on winning and seizing opportunities.

[Post-Chorus]
The final post-chorus doubles down on the central theme of rising up and facing challenges head-on, with its repetitive cadence solidifying its anthem-like quality.