m.A.A.d city

About this song

The title is an acronym for both "my Angels on Angel dust" and "my Angry Adolescence divided." It also references the Compton hip-hop group WC and the Maad Circle, whose leader WC later formed Westside Connection.

What it's about

The song draws on memories of violence Kendrick Lamar witnessed as a child, including a shooting at a burger stand and the killing of a cousin in 1994. In its final verse, he encourages young people to resist the temptations and pressures of the street and hopes his experience can help them.

Fun facts

• Samples “Regulate by Warren G (Ft. Nate Dogg)” and “Chains and Things by B.B. King”.
• Sampled in 35 other songs, like “Same Right Alright by Lil Marreco”.
• Written by Axl Folie, Kendrick Lamar, MC Eiht, Ricci Riera and Sounwave.
• Produced by Ricci Riera, Sounwave, Terrace Martin and THC.
• Recorded at TDE Red Room (Carson.