In the whirlwind of critical acclaim and fan adoration that surrounded Kendrick Lamar's groundbreaking album "DAMN." back in 2017, perhaps the most authentic and hilariously endearing review came not from a seasoned music journalist, but from the rapper's own mother, Paula Oliver. Proving that moms truly do know best (and have a fantastic sense of humor), Paula's emoji-laden text message to her son, which Kendrick proudly shared with the world, offered a uniquely personal and laugh-out-loud perspective on his masterpiece.
"OMG. This cd is bombbbbb! You should of put me and your daddy on this one too," Paula playfully quipped, referencing their memorable appearances in the skits on his critically acclaimed "good kid, m.A.A.d city" album. This lighthearted opening immediately sets the tone for a review that only a mother could deliver – equal parts supportive and cheekily teasing.
Click Link To Watch More On This
Click Link To Watch More On This
But Paula wasn't just showering her son with praise. She offered her genuine, unfiltered opinion, declaring, "This is your best one to me, no bullsh*t." This emphatic statement carries a weight that no professional critic's words can quite match. It's the heartfelt validation of a parent who has witnessed their child's journey firsthand.
Then came the commentary on the album's striking cover art, featuring a somewhat serious and contemplative Kendrick. "Your daddy says you look stressed on the cover lol I said n*gga that’s the point, we always stressing him out," Paula joked, adding a touch of relatable family humor to the mix. Her follow-up observation about Kendrick's lifelong tendency to overthink was both insightful and affectionate: "Since a lil’ boy you been [an] over thinker…But what you say, ‘a n*gga make it look sexy?’ Boy you can make a dog laugh." This playful jab at Kendrick's own lyrics showcases the close and humorous bond they share.
Even though Paula missed Kendrick's headlining performance at Coachella that year, she clearly kept up with the buzz surrounding his set. "They say you [were] floating in air?," she wrote, expressing a mix of awe and motherly concern. And showing love for Kendrick's dedicated fanbase, she added, "You fans are some die hards. I love them."
Kendrick's response to his mom's enthusiastic and emoji-filled review was simple and sweet: "Who taught you 100? Lol," acknowledging her impressive command of modern texting lingo. This exchange offers a heartwarming glimpse into the dynamic between a globally renowned artist and the woman who raised him – a reminder that even the biggest stars are still just someone's child.
Paula Oliver's review of "DAMN." wasn't just funny and endearing; it provided a unique lens through which to appreciate the album. Her pride in Kendrick's work, her playful teasing, and her genuine connection to his music offered a refreshing contrast to the often-analytical world of music criticism. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most insightful and heartfelt perspectives come from those who know us best.
