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

Linda Perry

Linda PerrySongwriter Interviews

Songwriting Hall of Famer Linda Perry talks about her songs "What's Up" and "Beautiful," her songwriting process, and her move into film music.

Marvin Gaye

Marvin GayeFact or Fiction

Did Marvin try out with the Detroit Lions? Did he fake crazy to get out of military service? And what about the cross-dressing?

Richie McDonald of Lonestar

Richie McDonald of LonestarSongwriter Interviews

Richie talks about the impact of "Amazed," and how his 4-year-old son inspired another Lonestar hit.

The Untold Story Of Fiona Apple's Extraordinary Machine

The Untold Story Of Fiona Apple's Extraordinary MachineSong Writing

Fiona's highly-anticipated third album almost didn't make it. Here's how it finally came together after two years and a leak.

Kim Thayil of Soundgarden

Kim Thayil of SoundgardenSongwriter Interviews

Their frontman (Chris Cornell) started out as their drummer, so Soundgarden takes a linear approach when it comes to songwriting. Kim explains how they do it.

The Evolution of "Ophelia"

The Evolution of "Ophelia"Song Writing

How five songs portray Shakespeare's character Ophelia.