This week’s latest chart topper, “Mona Lisa” by Lil Wayne (ft. Kendrick Lamar), channels a story about women who manipulate men in order to steal from them. The extent of their unloyalty is shown when they get help from another man; to Wayne, these women are referred to as ‘Mona Lisa,’ who is famous for her disingenuous smile.
The classical-turned-eerie background beat contrasts with Wayne’s rap: a reminder of music before mumble rap took over. The short, staccato-like lyrics help to depict just how much of a whirlwind-ed story it is. The song itself is quite meaningful; it is full of word play, allowing the listener to interpret the lyrics how they please.
The passion in Lil Wayne’s lyrics and Kendrick Lamar’s feature are reasons alone to give the song a listen. If you like stories being brought to life through music, I would recommend giving a listen to “Mona Lisa.”