While there’s no official Kendrick cover, the feeling of "Somebody That I Used To Know" runs through much of good kid, m.A.A.d city and Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers — the ache of outgrowing people, or them outgrowing you.
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The intersection of Kendrick Lamar and Gotye’s 2011 diamond-certified hit "Somebody That I Used to Know" is a fascinating piece of hip-hop history. While many modern listeners might assume it’s a recent AI-generated mashup, the connection actually dates back over a decade to a specific remix and a shared lineage of samples that continues through Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE). The Official 2012 Remix
Shortly after Gotye’s original track dominated the charts, an official "Somebody That I Used to Know (Remix)" featuring Kendrick Lamar was released in 2012. Produced by The Blessings, the track appeared on the mixtape Slight Work 5.
In this version, Kendrick delivers a characteristically intricate verse that flips the original song’s themes of heartbreak into a gritty narrative about social status and changing dynamics:
The Narrative: Kendrick raps about a former acquaintance who only acknowledges him once he’s "poppin'".
Key Lyrics: He mocks the "overdue car notes" and "primadonna" attitudes of people who dismissed him before his fame, ending with a cynical "Fast forward, wait, is that you?".
The Sample: The remix keeps Gotye's iconic chorus but recontextualizes it to represent the distance between Kendrick and the people from his past. The TDE Connection: Doechii’s "Anxiety"
The "Somebody That I Used to Know" melody saw a major resurgence in the Kendrick-adjacent world with the release of "Anxiety" by TDE artist Doechii.
Direct Sampling: While "Anxiety" is often cited as sampling Gotye, both tracks actually share a foundational sample from Luiz Bonfá’s 1967 instrumental "Seville".
The Evolution: "Anxiety" essentially "copy and pastes" the atmospheric backing of the Gotye track, creating a modern rap-pop hybrid that has been highly successful on rhythmic radio. Unreleased Tracks and Leaks
Outside of the 2012 remix, there are several "leaks" frequently discussed in fan circles: Kendrick Lamar – Somebody That I Used to Know (Remix)
* Somebody That I Used to Know (Remix) * 2012. * The Blessings. [FRESH LEAK] Somebody V3 : r/KendrickLamar
Reviews of Kendrick Lamar's 2012 remix of "Somebody That I Used to Know" highlight how he transforms Gotye's indie-pop hit into a stark reflection on personal growth and the bittersweet reality of past connections. While the original song focuses on the immediate sting of a messy breakup, Kendrick's version adds a narrative of moving on and finding success, looking back at someone from his past with a mix of pity and detachment. Notable Perspectives on the Track
Community discussions and reviews often touch on these key elements of the remix and its history:
Lyrical Contrast: Critics and listeners often note the "hip-hop vs. pop" dynamic. Kendrick's verse, which includes lines about his new life and "having options," provides a sharp contrast to the vulnerable, almost haunting melody of the Gotye sample.
Sample Clearance Issues: A major point of interest for fans is the track's history with T.I.'s song "Memories Back Then". Kendrick's verse was originally intended for that collaboration, but because the Gotye sample couldn't be cleared in time for the album release, the official version used a different instrumental.
Narrative Unreliability: Like the original Gotye track, which features two "unreliable narrators" presenting different sides of a story, Kendrick’s remix is praised for its nuanced storytelling. He portrays himself as "poppin'" now, contrasting his current status with a past acquaintance's more stagnant life. Where to Listen
The remix appeared on the 2012 mixtape Slight Work 5. You can find lyrics and community insights on platforms like Genius and discuss its legacy on forums like Reddit.
“Never would have thought that this song stemmed from them sampling Gotye. Kendrick's verse fits so perfectly over it too. My mind is blown.” Reddit · TIVEVO
Kendrick Lamar - Somebody That I Used to Know (Remix) Lyrics
This mashup blends the raw, introspective storytelling of Kendrick Lamar with the haunting, minimalist indie-pop of Gotye. The Soundscape
The Beat: Gotye’s iconic xylophone riff is slowed down, layered with a heavy, dusty boom-bap drum break.
The Bass: A deep, melodic sub-bass mirrors Kimbra’s vocal melody from the original chorus.
The Atmosphere: Distant sirens and vinyl crackle fill the empty spaces between the plucked notes. The Verse (Kendrick’s Perspective) Kendrick Lamar - Somebody That I Used To Know -...
Kendrick tackles the theme of "estrangement" through the lens of fame and hometown roots.
The Narrative: He speaks to a childhood friend who now sees him only as a "celebrity."
The Flow: Starts with a conversational, weary tone (reminiscent of Section.80).
The Pivot: Mid-verse, the rhythm shifts into a rapid-fire triplet flow, venting frustration about being treated like a bank account rather than a brother.
Key Lyric: "You didn't have to cut me off / But you cut the check and forgot the bloodline."
The original Gotye vocal remains, but it's pitched down slightly to match the somber mood.
Layering: Kendrick provides "yeah, yeah" ad-libs in the background.
Impact: The transition from Kendrick’s aggressive verse to the airy, vulnerable chorus creates a jarring sense of heartbreak.
The Breakdown: The music strips back to just the xylophone and a faint heartbeat.
The Monologue: Kendrick whispers a final thought on how success creates a "necessary distance."
The Fade: A vocal sample of Kimbra’s bridge echoes and dissolves into static.
💡 Artistic Theme: This track explores the "cost of the crown"—how becoming a legend makes you a stranger to the people who knew you best. If you'd like to dive deeper into this concept: Full lyrics for a Kendrick-style verse A tracklist for a "Remixed Classics" EP A visual concept for the music video
The phrase " Kendrick Lamar - Somebody That I Used To Know " refers to a popular viral trend involving AI-generated music
and unofficial remixes, rather than an official collaboration between Kendrick Lamar and Gotye.
While Kendrick has sampled and been sampled by many artists, this specific combination is most frequently seen in "AI cover" videos or "fan-made" remixes that have gained traction on social media. 1. The AI Trend and Viral Remixes The most common version of this "song" is an
where Kendrick Lamar’s voice is synthesized to perform the lyrics of Gotye’s 2011 hit. The "Leak" Myth: During the height of the Drake-Kendrick feud
in 2024, several AI-generated tracks were leaked online by creators like Sy the Rapper
to trick fans into thinking Kendrick had dropped a new diss. Fan Edits:
There are numerous "mashups" on platforms like YouTube and TikTok that blend the instrumental of Gotye's track with Kendrick’s verses from songs like Money Trees The Art of Peer Pressure 2. Actual Musical Connections
While Kendrick hasn't officially covered the song, there are real-world links between him and Gotye’s famous sample: The T.I. Collaboration:
Kendrick Lamar, along with B.o.B and Kris Stephens, appeared on the song "Memories Back Then"
by T.I., which was originally intended to sample "Somebody That I Used To Know". However, due to sample clearance issues, the beat had to be changed for the official release. The Luiz Bonfá Sample: Both Gotye’s hit and the song "Anxiety" by
(a former label mate of Kendrick at TDE) sample the same source: "Seville" by Luiz Bonfá 3. Why It Resonates
The pairing is popular in the "fan-edit" community because both artists are known for vulnerable storytelling Gotye’s Original:
Explores the bitter aftermath of a breakup and the feeling of being discarded. Kendrick’s Style: While there’s no official Kendrick cover, the feeling
Often uses "different rapping styles and voices" to convey deep emotional shifts, much like the dynamic change between Gotye and Kimbra in the original track. original track that both artists sampled.
for the T.I. song featuring Kendrick that almost used this sample. More information on Kendrick's actual discography and recent releases.
The connection between Kendrick Lamar and the 2011 hit "Somebody That I Used to Know" by Gotye featuring Kimbra primarily revolves around a 2012 collaboration titled "Memories Back Then," which originally featured a prominent sample of the track. The "Memories Back Then" Connection
In late 2012, T.I. recorded "Memories Back Then" featuring Kendrick Lamar, B.o.B, and Kris Stephens.
The Original Sample: The song was built around a direct sample of Gotye’s "Somebody That I Used to Know".
Sample Clearance Issues: Due to difficulties clearing the sample in time for T.I.'s album Trouble Man: Heavy Is the Head, the production was reworked to remove the Gotye sample.
The Final Version: While the official release uses a different instrumental, the original version with the Gotye sample leaked online and remains a popular "what-if" among fans. Lyrics and Themes
Kendrick Lamar's verse in "Memories Back Then" (often titled as a "Somebody That I Used to Know Remix" on lyric sites) explores the theme of changing social dynamics after achieving fame.
Storyline: Kendrick describes encountering a woman from his past—specifically a high school peer—whose life has taken a difficult turn while his own has ascended.
Key Lyrics: He raps, "Hold up, is that you? / With them big ol' thighs after school?" and contrasts his success with her overdue car notes.
Thematic Alignment: Kendrick’s narrative of looking back at a transformed person mirrors the core sentiment of Gotye's original chorus: the painful realization that someone who was once central to your life is now just "somebody that you used to know". Modern Samples and Influence
The influence of "Somebody That I Used to Know" continues to appear in the hip-hop world:
Doechii: The song "Anxiety" by Doechii (a former label mate of Kendrick at TDE) prominently samples the Gotye track.
Mashups: Because of the popularity of Kendrick’s unreleased "Memories Back Then" verse, many fan-made mashups exist on platforms like YouTube that place his vocals directly over the original Gotye instrumental. Somebody That I Used to Know (Remix) Lyrics - Genius
The story behind Kendrick Lamar's "Somebody That I Used to Know (Remix)"
is a tale of a rising star reflecting on the people who only value him for his newfound status. Recorded in The Blessings
, the track serves as a bridge between Kendrick's underground roots and his mainstream explosion following good kid, m.A.A.d city The Narrative: Success vs. Sincerity
In this remix of the Gotye hit, Kendrick flips the original's theme of a failed romance into a commentary on fair-weather friends opportunistic lovers The Struggle:
Kendrick recalls the days when he was in "hot pursuit" of his dreams but lacked the "tallest fetti" (money) to impress those around him. The Rejection:
He describes a specific woman who refused to ride with him until he could afford a "new Monte Carlo". Her rejection "shot his pride," forcing him to improve his "freestyle" and hustle while she overlooked him because he wasn't "quite ready" yet. The Shift:
Once he achieves fame, the same person attempts to reconnect. Kendrick uses the familiar hook to realize she is just "somebody that I used to know," noting that her current interest is "selfish" and only driven by his success. Musical Legacy
While this specific remix was a viral moment in 2012, Kendrick’s fascination with the concept of "Somebody" evolved over time: "Memories Back Then":
The remix's themes were later interpolated into the T.I. track featuring Kendrick, B.o.B, and Kris Stephens. A New Perspective: In 2019, a different unreleased track titled "Somebody"
surfaced. This later version was more introspective, questioning if fans celebrate him as an artist or just a "profit". Snippets of this demo were eventually repurposed for the emotional climax of "Mother I Sober" on his 2022 album, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers or see how the "Somebody" demo eventually evolved into his later work? Kendrick Lamar – Somebody That I Used to Know (Remix)
With them big ol' thighs after school (Uh huh) J-305 had gave me high five when I said I'm in hot pursuit. [Verse: Kendrick Lamar] Kendrick Lamar – Somebody That I Used to Know (Remix) Would you like me to: If you want, I can:
I'm assuming you want me to generate a post on Kendrick Lamar's cover of "Somebody That I Used To Know" by Gotye, featuring Drake. However, I think there might be some confusion - Kendrick Lamar did not record a cover of this song. The original song was released by Gotye, featuring Kimbra, in 2012.
But, I can generate a post on a related topic:
Kendrick Lamar's Take on Collaboration: A Look at His Features
Kendrick Lamar is widely regarded as one of the most influential and innovative rappers of our time. With a career spanning over a decade, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of lyrical depth and musical experimentation. One aspect of his artistry that often goes unappreciated is his skill in collaborations. Kendrick Lamar has been featured on numerous tracks with other artists, bringing his unique perspective and style to their songs.
In contrast, the song "Somebody That I Used To Know" by Gotye, featuring Kimbra, was a huge commercial success, peaking at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Drake, on the other hand, has collaborated with Kendrick Lamar on several occasions, including the hit song "DNA." from Kendrick's album "DAMN."
If you're interested, I can write about:
Let me know which direction you'd like me to take!
Here's a sample post:
Kendrick Lamar is a master of collaboration. His ability to elevate any track with his presence is a testament to his skill as a rapper and songwriter. While he hasn't recorded a cover of "Somebody That I Used To Know," his work with other artists is well worth exploring.
From his early days with Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg to his more recent collaborations with Taylor Swift and Thundercat, Kendrick Lamar has consistently demonstrated his versatility and adaptability. His features are always highly anticipated, and for good reason - he brings a level of intensity and passion to every track.
Drake, in particular, has collaborated with Kendrick on several occasions, resulting in some incredible tracks. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their songs together are always highly regarded.
While Kendrick Lamar hasn't put his own spin on "Somebody That I Used To Know," his body of work is a testament to his innovative approach to music. If you're a fan of Kendrick, Gotye, or Drake, there's plenty to explore in their respective discographies.
Kendrick Lamar has never officially recorded or released a version of "Somebody That I Used To Know." However, you might be thinking of one of these possibilities:
If you want a solid piece of content comparing the theme of "Somebody That I Used To Know" with Kendrick Lamar’s work, here’s a draft:
Both artists excel at emotional precision – Gotye through hushed, building tension; Kendrick through voice cracks, tempo switches, and raw confession. The mashups you’ll find online (e.g., "Kendrick Lamar x Gotye – Swimming Pools That I Used To Know") highlight how well Kendrick’s rhythmic aggression fits the song’s haunting bassline.
To truly understand the misattributed title, we must look at the track most fans confuse it with: Sing About Me, I'm Dying of Thirst.
That song features a hook sung from the perspective of a ghost—a friend of Kendrick's who was shot and killed. The lyrics float in a reverb-drenched ether:
"I wonder if I was a better person, would you be at my funeral? / I wonder if I was a better person, would you be at my funeral?"
Then, Kendrick adopts the voice of the deceased’s brother, who vows revenge, only to be killed himself. Finally, Kendrick raps about "Keisha’s Song"—a prostitute he knows.
Each verse ends with the refrain: "I'll never forget your song." But the subtext is grief-stricken amnesia. He is trying to remember the people he used to know before the violence erased them. The melancholic guitar loop of that track is the hip-hop equivalent of Gotye’s xylophone—sparse, circular, entrapping.
If you squint your ears, Sing About Me is the B-side to Somebody That I Used To Know. One is about a pop break-up; the other is about a drive-by shooting. Same emotional architecture, different skin color.
While there is no official collaboration, the internet has created a strong association between Kendrick Lamar’s style and the Gotye song due to fan-made mashups.
Verdict: You have likely encountered a bootleg remix or a fan mashup, not an authentic Kendrick Lamar song.
The original composition by Gotye relies on spatial dynamics; it is defined by its skeletal percussion, the unique timbre of the sampled Winton four-string guitar, and a vocal delivery that is breathy and resigned. The song feels like a memory fading into the ether.
Lamar’s rendition, backed by his touring band, inverts this dynamic. The tempo is accelerated, and the instrumentation is thickened with live bass and sharper, more urgent drumming. This sonic shift is crucial. Where Gotye’s version sounds like the melancholic aftermath of a breakup, Lamar’s version sounds like the heated argument that caused it. The band creates a soundscape that demands attention rather than passive listening, setting the stage for Lamar’s high-energy vocal delivery.
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