In advance of the release of ‘Kimberly: The People I Used to Know,’ K. Michelle releases a gimmicky, but thought-provoking single, “Kim K.”

“Kim K” serves as the fourth single from Kimberly: The People I Used to Know, the fourth studio album from unapologetic R&B artist, K. Michelle.  Listening to “Kim K” for the first time, it can be mistaken for being too gimmicky and lacking substance.  Examine the single closer, and K. Michelle makes a number of relevant points.

Before diving into the meat of the lyrics, “Kim K” is fueled by an excellent 2Pac rap classic – “I Ain’t Mad At Cha.”  This serves as a fitting backdrop as K. Michelle essentially preaches a sermon about black issues, including cultural appropriation.  Named after the famous (or infamous) Kim Kardashian, Michelle criticizes her privilege, best evidenced on the unapologetic, memorable chorus:

“Wish I could be a Kardashian so I could be black / Put my face over Pac, wear my braids to the back / Throw a filter on that, ‘cause ain’t shit real / And ain’t shit funny, so f*ck how you feel!”

Again, read into what K. Michelle is saying in the aforementioned, and this is far more than a gimmicky, hip-hop-driven R&B record.  The anger and criticism of Michelle is evident throughout the verses in this brief song.  She references black anger, Idris Elba, Sylvia Rhone, etc.

Final Thoughts

K. Michelle exceeds expectations on “Kim K.” Sure, it’s gimmicky, but Michelle gives the listeners ‘food for thought.’ What better way to do so than with a fun, contemporary approach?

K. Michelle • Kimberly: The People I Used to Know • Atlantic • Release: 12.8.17

Photo Credit: Atlantic