"Stay Woke!": These 7 Childish Gambino Lyrics That Will Go Down in Hip-Hop History
Donald Glover, also known as Childish Gambino, has dropped some heat during his time as a rapper. Here are some of his best lyrics.
By D.M.May 3 2024, Published 4:43 p.m. ET
Donald Glover's ability to act and rap is unparalleled. From his hip-hop accolades to his evolution as an on-screen performer, Donald – under his stage name Childish Gambino – has continuously pushed boundaries. Let's take a look at seven of the best Childish lyrics from his massive catalog.
7. “Feels Like Summer”
Childish Gambino performs on day 2 of the Governors Ball 2017 music festival.
“Every day gets hotter than the one before / Running out of water, it's about to go down,” – Childish Gambino (“Feels Like Summer”)
“Feels Like Summer” has a groovy vibe that evokes feelings of nostalgia. The lyrics transport listeners to a carefree state of mind, making it a perfect anthem for lazy summer days and introspective reflections.
6. "Telegraph Ave"
Childish Gambino performs onstage during the 2019 Outside Lands Music And Arts Festival.
“Before I get to The Bay, babe, that's a problem / Because I'm way too scared to call / And you might get me to stay,” – Childish Gambino ("III. Telegraph Ave 'Oakland' by Lloyd")
Released in 2013, “Telegraph Ave ('Oakland' by Lloyd)” is described as a song within a song. Childish sampled a song from crooner Lloyd but in a non-traditional sense. In the music video for the song, a boy is listening to Lloyd’s “Oakland” on the radio and is seemingly inspired to write a song about the girl in his life.
5. "Sweatpants"
“Furniture custom, you shop at IKEA / Show Maserati, you whippin' a Kia / Spendin' this money, it's longer than Nia,” – Childish Gambino (“Sweatpants”)
"Sweatpants" is a masterclass in wordplay. The song was featured on the Atlanta rapper’s second studio album, Because the Internet, released in 2014. Childish holds no punches in the song. Instead, he boasts about his achievements and his lavish lifestyle.
4. "3005"
“No matter what you say or what you do / When I'm alone, I'd rather be with you,” – Childish Gambino (“3005”)
In "3005," Childish explores the complexities of love and loneliness in the digital age. The poignant line: "No matter what you say or what you do, when I'm alone, I'd rather be with you," encapsulates the longing for connection amidst a sea of distractions, striking a chord with listeners worldwide.
3. "Bonfire"
“This Asian dude, I stole his girl, and now he got that Kogi beef / My d--k is like an accent mark, it's all about the over Es,” – Childish Gambino (“Bonfire”)
Childish’s debut single, “Bonfire.” paved the way for his successful career. Originally released as part of his 2011 album, Camp, the track has become a fan favorite. In the song, Childish calls out the entertainment industry, and he also addresses the controversy surrounding his fetish for Asian women.
2. “Redbone”
Childish Gambino performs on What Stage during the 2019 Bonnaroo Arts And Music Festival.
“So long, You made a n---a wait for some, so long / You make it hard for boy like that to go on / I'm wishin' I could make this mine, oh” – Childish Gambino (“Redbone”)
"Redbone" stands as a testament to his Childish’s versatility. The song was released as part of his critically acclaimed album Awaken, My Love! in December 2016, becoming an instant hit. The lyrics tell the story of a man yearning for an nameless woman's affection.
1. "This Is America"
“You just a black man in this world / You just a barcode / You just a black man in this world / Drivin' expensive foreigns,” – Childish Gambino (“This Is America”)
In the 2018 single, "This Is America," Childish sends a powerful message about the state of affairs in America. The song perfectly encapsulates the tribulations faced by people of color. "You just a black man in this world,” is a stark reminder of the realities of life for black men, regardless of their fame or fortune.
