Keisha's Song (Her Pain)

Album: Section.80 (2011)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Section.80 is a concept album that revolves around the life of Tammy and Keisha and explains the personal hardships in their lives. This song, which tells the tragic story of the prostitute Keisha's demise was recorded by Kendrick Lamar for his little sister, as a warning to never become a hooker.
  • The cut was inspired by a real 17-year-old girl that Lamar knew. The teenage prostitute was his friend's younger sister, and right after he saw her standing on a block selling her body, he went home and wrote the song.

Comments: 1

  • Silva Tiaan from Nelspruit South AfricaKendrick is genius. The hope, dedication and aspirations that I have. They're all from his music. I pray he lives long cause really need his music!
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Maria Muldaur

Maria MuldaurSongwriter Interviews

The "Midnight At The Oasis" singer is an Old Time gal. She talks about her jug band beginnings and shares a Dylan story.

Gentle Giant

Gentle GiantSongwriter Interviews

An interview with Ray and Derek Shulman of the progressive rock band Gentle Giant to discuss counterpoint, polyrhythms, and... Bon Jovi.

Muhammad Ali: His Musical Legacy and the Songs he Inspired

Muhammad Ali: His Musical Legacy and the Songs he InspiredSong Writing

Before he was the champ, Ali released an album called I Am The Greatest!, but his musical influence is best heard in the songs he inspired.

Graham Nash

Graham NashSongwriter Interviews

Graham Nash tells the stories behind some of his famous songs and photos, and is asked about "yacht rock" for the first time.

Edwin McCain

Edwin McCainSongwriter Interviews

"I'll Be" was what Edwin called his "Hail Mary" song. He says it proves "intention of the songwriter is 180 degrees from potential interpretation by an audience."

Director Nick Morris ("The Final Countdown")

Director Nick Morris ("The Final Countdown")Song Writing

Nick made some of the biggest videos on MTV, including "The Final Countdown," "Heaven" and "Don't Know What You Got (Till It's Gone)."