Big Sean And Kendrick Lamar: The Control Verse That Shook The Hip-Hop World
The hip-hop scene was forever changed on August 12, 2013, when Big Sean released his track "Control" featuring Kendrick Lamar and Jay Electronica. This song not only showcased the lyrical prowess of each artist but also sparked a massive response within the rap community. In this article, we delve into the significance of "Control," the lyrical content that ignited the rivalry, and the ongoing impact on both artists' careers and the hip-hop genre as a whole.
Understanding the context of "Control" requires a look at the state of hip-hop at the time. Big Sean was on the rise, Kendrick Lamar was gaining traction after his debut album "good kid, m.A.A.d city," and Jay Electronica was a respected figure in the industry. The collaboration was highly anticipated, making the release of "Control" a pivotal moment for all involved.
This article will explore the lyrics of "Control," the reactions it elicited from fellow artists, and the broader implications for hip-hop culture. By examining these elements, we can appreciate how a single verse has influenced the trajectory of modern rap and the careers of Big Sean and Kendrick Lamar.
Table of Contents
- 1. Background of Big Sean
- 2. The Rise of Kendrick Lamar
- 3. The "Control" Verse Explained
- 4. Reactions from the Hip-Hop Community
- 5. Impact on Big Sean's Career
- 6. Impact on Kendrick Lamar's Career
- 7. Legacy of "Control" in Hip-Hop
- 8. Conclusion and Future Implications
1. Background of Big Sean
Big Sean, born Sean Michael Anderson on March 25, 1988, in Santa Monica, California, is an American rapper and songwriter. He gained recognition in the hip-hop scene with his debut album "Finally Famous," which featured hit singles and collaborations with prominent artists.
| Full Name | Sean Michael Anderson |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | March 25, 1988 |
| Origin | Santa Monica, California, USA |
| Genre | Hip-Hop, Rap |
| Years Active | 2007 – Present |
2. The Rise of Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar, born Kendrick Lamar Duckworth on June 17, 1987, in Compton, California, is another prominent figure in the hip-hop industry. His unique storytelling ability and lyrical depth set him apart from his contemporaries. Kendrick's career took off with the release of his album "good kid, m.A.A.d city," which was critically acclaimed and commercially successful.
| Full Name | Kendrick Lamar Duckworth |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | June 17, 1987 |
| Origin | Compton, California, USA |
| Genre | Hip-Hop, Rap |
| Years Active | 2003 – Present |
3. The "Control" Verse Explained
The "Control" verse is notable for Kendrick Lamar's bold declaration of competition in the rap game. He called out several rappers by name, including Big Sean and J. Cole, challenging them to raise their lyrical game. The verse began with Lamar declaring himself the "king of New York," which further fueled the rivalry and debate among fans and artists alike.
Some key lines from the verse include:
- "I got love for you all but I'm tryna murder you n****s."
- "You know what time it is, ante up, this is in forever."
- "I’m the king of New York, King of the Coast, one hand, I juggle them both."
4. Reactions from the Hip-Hop Community
The immediate aftermath of "Control" saw a wave of responses from various artists. Many took to social media to express their thoughts, while some released diss tracks or competitive verses in retaliation. Notable responses included:
- Drake: Acknowledged Kendrick's verse in interviews, hinting at the competition.
- J. Cole: Released a track titled "The Cure," which was seen as a response.
- Wale: Criticized Kendrick's approach but also acknowledged his talent.
5. Impact on Big Sean's Career
For Big Sean, "Control" was a double-edged sword. While the verse elevated his profile, it also placed him in direct competition with Kendrick. Sean responded with tracks that showcased his lyrical skills and competitive spirit, further establishing his presence in the industry.
Key developments in Big Sean's career post-"Control" include:
- The release of his album "Hall of Fame," which included tracks that addressed the competition.
- Collaborations with other artists that emphasized his growth as a rapper.
- Increased visibility in the hip-hop community, leading to more significant opportunities.
6. Impact on Kendrick Lamar's Career
Kendrick Lamar's career skyrocketed after "Control." The verse solidified his reputation as one of the top lyricists in hip-hop and paved the way for his subsequent albums, which received both critical and commercial success.
Highlights of Kendrick's career following "Control" include:
- The release of "To Pimp a Butterfly," which won multiple awards and critical acclaim.
- His performance at the Grammy Awards, which further showcased his artistic vision.
- Collaboration with various artists, solidifying his position in the industry.
7. Legacy of "Control" in Hip-Hop
The legacy of "Control" extends beyond the artists involved. It reignited the spirit of competition in hip-hop, encouraging artists to push their lyrical boundaries and strive for greatness. Many consider the verse a pivotal moment for modern rap, influencing the sound and themes in subsequent music.
Key points to consider about the legacy include:
- Revival of the "battle rap" spirit among artists.
- Increased emphasis on lyricism in mainstream hip-hop.
- Impact on the public's perception of rap as a competitive art form.
8. Conclusion and Future Implications
In conclusion, Big Sean and Kendrick Lamar's "Control" verse significantly impacted the hip-hop landscape. It challenged artists to elevate their game and inspired a new generation of rappers to embrace competition. As we reflect on this moment, it is clear that "Control" remains a defining moment in hip-hop history, shaping the careers of both artists and the genre itself.
We invite you to share your thoughts on the impact of "Control" and these two artists in the comments below. If you enjoyed this article, please share it with others who appreciate hip-hop culture and explore more content on our site.
Thank you for reading, and we look forward to seeing you again for more in-depth discussions on hip-hop and music culture!
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