Meaning of Keepin’ It Real by Dr. Dre

The song "Keepin' It Real" by Dr. Dre explores various themes and issues prevalent in society. From the lyrics, it is evident that the artist wants to communicate his emotions and experiences to the world. The overall theme of the song revolves around authenticity and staying true to oneself despite the challenges and hardships that may come along the way.One standout lyric that supports this theme is "How everytime I drop an album one of my niggas get killed." This line touches on the reality of violence and tragedy that often accompanies success in certain communities. It reflects the artist's struggle to remain focused and motivated, despite the pain and loss he experiences whenever he achieves something significant. This theme highlights the importance of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.Another important lyric is "Make a nigga wanna stop spittin’, Plus Interscope be bullshittin’ Scott Pippen." This line discusses the obstacles faced by artists in the music industry. It presents a theme of disappointment and frustration with the business side of the industry, where artists may feel undervalued or mistreated. It portrays the struggle to maintain artistic integrity while dealing with external pressures. This theme emphasizes the significance of authenticity and self-expression in the midst of commercialization.The lyric "My life should be a movie shot by Martin Scorsese" introduces the theme of escapism and the desire for one's life to be portrayed as a grand production. It suggests a longing for recognition and validation, as if having one's life documented by a legendary filmmaker would give it more significance. This theme touches on the idea that sometimes individuals seek external validation to feel fulfilled.The line "Gun’s off safety, niggas is Polamalu" connects the parallel between violence and sports. By referencing Troy Polamalu, a former NFL player known for his aggressive playing style, the artist highlights the normalization of violence in certain communities. This theme raises awareness about how violence can become ingrained in everyday life, blurring the lines between entertainment and reality.The lyric "I’m tryna see my kids through college before I gotta die" brings forth the theme of legacy and the desire to provide a better future for one's family. It reflects the artist's motivation to succeed and protect his loved ones from the struggles he has faced throughout his life. This theme emphasizes the importance of breaking cycles and creating opportunities for the next generation.The line "Almost turned on my family for the limelight" introduces the theme of sacrifice and the allure of fame. It explores the internal conflict an artist may face when trying to balance personal relationships and the pursuit of success. This theme delves into the compromises one may make along the path to achieving their dreams, highlighting the complexity of personal and professional choices.The lyric "I smoke kush to get my mind right" presents the theme of self-medication and coping mechanisms. It addresses the practice of using substances to alleviate emotional pain or find solace in difficult times. This theme touches on the notion of escapism and the importance of finding healthier ways to deal with life's challenges.In conclusion, the song "Keepin' It Real" by Dr. Dre encompasses various themes that collectively develop an overarching message of staying authentic and true to oneself. The lyrics explore themes of resilience, the challenges of the music industry, the desire for recognition, the normalization of violence, legacy, sacrifice, and coping mechanisms. Through these themes, the artist provides a creative and imaginative portrayal of the struggles and experiences faced on the path to success while emphasizing the importance of maintaining one's true identity in the face of external pressures.