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Money Trees

Pachira aquatica, commonly known as the money tree, is a species of tropical wetland tree in the mallow family Malvaceae, characterized by its glossy, palmate leaves arranged in whorls and a sturdy trunk that stores water for resilience in swampy habitats.^[1] Native to the seasonally flooded swamps and riverbanks of Central and South America, where it can reach heights of up to 18 meters in the wild, the plant produces edible nuts and has been traditionally used by indigenous peoples for food and fiber.^[2] In cultivation as a popular houseplant since the late 20th century, it is often propagated from cuttings and trained into braided trunks for aesthetic appeal, thriving in bright indirect light and moderate watering while tolerating indoor conditions better than many tropical species.^[3] The money tree gained its name from a Taiwanese legend recounting a poor man's discovery of prosperity after cultivating the plant for its seeds, leading to its widespread adoption in East Asian Feng Shui practices as a symbol of wealth attraction and positive energy, though such beliefs lack empirical support and reflect cultural folklore rather than causal mechanisms.^[4] Its defining characteristics include drought tolerance derived from caudex-like trunk water storage and adaptability to lower humidity, making it a low-maintenance choice for urban dwellers, despite occasional susceptibility to root rot from overwatering.^[5]

Background and Production

Concept and Writing

"Money Trees" centers on the theme of temptation, depicting the singular focus on acquiring wealth as a means of escape from Compton's hardships, often at the expense of moral considerations. Kendrick Lamar explained that the song captures the post-peer-pressure mentality of his youth, where "everything was about money. We didn’t care about nothing else truthfully," positioning it as a narrative pivot after "The Art of Peer Pressure" in the album's storyline.^[6] The title's metaphor evokes idealized sources of quick riches providing "shade" from struggle, while critiquing the lust for power and materialism that drives such pursuits.^[6] Lamar wrote the lyrics as an integral part of good kid, m.A.A.d city's semi-autobiographical framework, released on October 22, 2012, weaving personal reflections on communal dreams of prosperity into a linear tale of one tumultuous day.^[6] The track originally envisioned a remix structure, but Jay Rock's verse—penned by the TDE labelmate himself—proved so compelling that it supplanted the remix idea, solidifying the song's final form.^[6] Rock recalled Lamar's praise upon hearing it: "Man, you took it to the next level," highlighting the collaborative refinement that aligned the content with the album's emphasis on shared Compton experiences.^[6] TDE president Punch affirmed the verse's narrative fit, stating it "was so crazy and fit the story so well, we had to use that as the original," underscoring how the writing process prioritized authenticity to the region's hustler dynamics over preconceived plans.^[6] This integration reinforced the song's role in illustrating youthful vulnerability to economic desperation, drawn from Lamar's firsthand observations rather than abstracted ideals.^[6]

Recording and Producers

"Money Trees" was primarily produced by DJ Dahi, whose instrumental forms the backbone of the track through a looped sample from Beach House's 2010 song "Silver Soul," isolating ethereal vocal and guitar elements for an atmospheric foundation.^[7]^[8] Dahi layered bouncy 808 bass, crisp hi-hats, and subtle percussion over the sample to evoke West Coast cruising vibes, a process he detailed in production breakdowns as starting with the raw sample chop before adding rhythmic elements for cohesion.^[7] Rahki provided additional production support, contributing to drum programming and arrangement refinements during collaborative sessions.^[9] The vocals for Kendrick Lamar and featured artist Jay Rock were recorded amid the broader good kid, m.A.A.d city sessions spanning 2011 to 2012, primarily at studios in Los Angeles including those affiliated with Top Dawg Entertainment.^[10] Lamar's verses and Rock's closing feature were laid down over Dahi's beat, with background ad-libs from Anna Wise enhancing the dreamy texture; specific session dates for "Money Trees" remain undocumented in producer accounts, though Dahi noted the track's rapid assembly post-sample selection to capture its narrative momentum.^[7] Mixing and final engineering credits align with the album's team, overseen by Top Dawg's in-house production to integrate the song's hazy production with Lamar's intricate rhyme delivery.^[10]

Composition

Musical Structure

"Money Trees" employs a conventional hip-hop verse-chorus structure, comprising three verses alternating with choruses. The first two verses are rapped by Kendrick Lamar, detailing narrative progression, while the third verse features guest rapper Jay Rock. Choruses, performed by Kendrick Lamar with backing vocals from Anna Wise, recur after each verse and emphasize melodic hooks derived from the sampled material.^[10] Produced by DJ Dahi, the track centers on a looped sample from Beach House's "Silver Soul" (2010), which supplies the foundational guitar riff and atmospheric synth textures flipped into a hazy, dreamlike backdrop. This sample drives the melody throughout, with added hip-hop elements including 808 bass, crisp snare drums, and subtle hi-hats maintaining a laid-back groove. Backup vocals by Anna Wise in the choruses blend ethereal harmonies, enhancing the song's introspective mood without overpowering the rap delivery.^[11]^[10] The song unfolds at 72 beats per minute in 4/4 time, fostering a slow, contemplative pace suitable for its thematic depth, though the rhythm can feel double-time at 144 BPM due to the percussive emphasis. Harmonically, it resides in B Phrygian mode, utilizing chord progressions of above-average complexity that highlight the second degree (C major) for a tense, exotic flavor characteristic of the mode's flattened second interval. This setup, combined with the instrumental's minimalism—sparse keys and reverb-heavy samples—creates a floating, immersive quality that underscores the verses' rhythmic flow.^[12]^[13]

Samples and Influences

"Money Trees" incorporates a prominent reversed sample from the guitar riff in Beach House's "Silver Soul," taken from their 2010 album Teen Dream.^[11] This element, manipulated by producer DJ Dahi, contributes to the track's ethereal, dreamlike quality, blending indie rock textures with hip-hop production.^[14] The sample's inversion and layering create a hypnotic backdrop that underscores the song's themes of aspiration and escapism.^[15] The track also features vocal samples from Kendrick Lamar's own "Cartoon & Cereal" featuring Gunplay, released earlier in 2012 on Lamar's compilation project good kid, m.A.A.d city (Deluxe) precursors.^[14] These snippets integrate seamlessly into the hook, reinforcing Lamar's narrative continuity across his work. Additionally, the lyrics interpolate lines from E-40's 1995 track "Big Ballin' Wit My Homies," evoking West Coast rap's emphasis on street-level success and camaraderie.^[15] Stylistically, the production draws influence from the fusion of non-hip-hop genres into rap beats, as exemplified by DJ Dahi's approach of adapting Beach House's shoegaze-inspired sound—characterized by reverb-heavy guitars and atmospheric synths—into a rhythmic framework suitable for Lamar's introspective flow.^[16] This cross-genre experimentation reflects broader trends in early 2010s hip-hop toward incorporating indie and alternative elements, diverging from traditional G-funk or trap minimalism prevalent in West Coast production at the time.^[17] The result is a track that balances Lamar's Compton-rooted lyricism with sonic innovation, influencing subsequent producers in blending organic samples with digital manipulation for emotional depth.

Lyrics and Themes

Narrative Elements

The lyrics of "Money Trees" construct a narrative through Kendrick Lamar's introspective verses, portraying vignettes of moral temptation and survival in Compton's impoverished streets during his adolescence. The first verse opens with hypothetical dilemmas, such as weighing casual infidelity against trust in relationships or embracing violence for respect, culminating in the street maxim that "the one in front of the gun lives forever," which underscores a code where aggression ensures legacy amid constant peril.^[10] This segment draws from Lamar's lived experiences, framing the protagonist's internal struggle between fleeting pleasures and enduring consequences in a environment rife with poverty and gang influence.^[18] Jay Rock's chorus serves as a narrative pivot, presenting binary choices symbolizing vice versus virtue—"Halle Berry or hallelujah"—that propel the story toward themes of inevitable compromise, where "everybody gon' respect the shooter" but true immortality lies in vulnerability or restraint.^[10] It acts as a refrain reinforcing the protagonist's entrapment in cycles of aspiration and risk, with "money trees" metaphorically representing unattainable wealth that shades one from hardship yet demands ethical sacrifices.^[10] The second verse advances the plot by shifting to collective dreams of escape, where Lamar and his peers fantasize about "imaginary pals" enabling endless riches, only to confront betrayals like snitching on friends or exploiting relationships for gain.^[10] The narrator grapples with loyalty, rejecting disloyalty—"I can never disrespect my mama's side"—while acknowledging the seductive pull of individualism in a community bound by shared trauma, such as drive-by shootings and absent opportunities.^[10] This culminates in a resigned acceptance of the "Compton life," blending optimism for personal elevation with the causal reality that unchecked ambition often perpetuates violence.^[19] Lamar has characterized the track's storyline as rooted in "temptation," specifically the lust for material escape that tests one's principles amid systemic deprivation.^[10] Within the broader good kid, m.A.A.d city album arc, "Money Trees" bridges episodes of peer-driven recklessness and romantic distractions, illustrating the protagonist's evolving awareness of how youthful fantasies collide with irreversible choices.^[20]

Interpretations and Critiques

"Money Trees" is widely interpreted as a cautionary allegory critiquing the illusory allure of rapid wealth acquisition through criminal activity amid cycles of poverty and violence in Compton. The titular "money trees" metaphorically represent opportunities for easy money via hustling or gang involvement, offering temporary "shade" or relief from hardship but ultimately failing to provide lasting escape or fulfillment.^[19] ^[21] This interpretation aligns with Lamar's narrative of dreaming lavish lifestyles akin to successful rappers—"dreams of livin' life like rappers do"—only to confront harsh realities like betrayal, loss, and moral compromise upon "waking" to persistent poverty.^[19] ^[22] A central theme involves the glorification versus futility of violence, exemplified in the line "everybody gon' respect the shooter / but the one in front of the gun lives forever," which underscores a cultural martyrdom where victims achieve enduring communal reverence while perpetrators gain fleeting notoriety.^[23] ^[22] Jay Rock's guest verse reinforces this by depicting survival tactics like relying on government aid ("eatin' cheese from the government") and the inescapability of street codes, highlighting limited legitimate paths out of economic desperation.^[19] Critics of materialism within the track note references to luxury items, such as a "Louis belt that never ease that pain," as evidence that material gains exacerbate rather than alleviate trauma from events like the shooting death of Lamar's uncle.^[19] ^[21] Interpretations often frame the song as part of Lamar's broader deconstruction of gang culture's appeal, prioritizing introspective warnings over endorsement, as seen in contrasts between material temptations (e.g., idealized women like "Halle Berry") and spiritual redemption ("hallelujah").^[21] ^[22] Some analyses extend this to societal critique, arguing it exposes systemic failures fostering infatuation with ghetto economics and larger consumerist drives. Critiques of the song's messaging question whether its vivid storytelling, despite cautionary intent, inadvertently romanticizes hustling for impressionable listeners, potentially overshadowing the explicit rejection of such paths in Lamar's discography.^[24] However, most scholarly and musicological reviews affirm its role as a profound cautionary tale, emphasizing consequences like interpersonal distrust, health risks (e.g., STDs from transient encounters), and unhealed grief over any glamorization.^[19] ^[25] Financial perspectives derive practical lessons, such as recognizing poverty's behavioral distortions and the attitude shifts induced by sudden wealth, without attributing moral endorsement to depicted actions.^[26] Overall, the track's thematic depth has sustained its resonance, amassing over 1 billion Spotify streams by 2024 while prompting reflections on ambition's perils in marginalized communities.^[21]

Release and Promotion

Album Integration

"Money Trees" serves as the sixth track on Kendrick Lamar's major-label debut album good kid, m.A.A.d city, released on October 22, 2012, positioning it midway through the project's 12-track standard edition.^[27] Following "The Art of Peer Pressure," which recounts the protagonist's initiation into criminal activity under group influence during a house robbery, the song shifts focus to the underlying aspirations driving such choices, portraying the illusory promise of effortless prosperity symbolized by "money trees."^[28] This placement underscores the album's semi-autobiographical narrative arc, which traces a young man's navigation of Compton's street culture, temptations, and moral conflicts, with "Money Trees" acting as a thematic bridge between the immediacy of peer-driven recklessness and subsequent explorations of consequence and escape.^[29] The track's integration is enhanced by its production and lyrical content, which provide a hazy, introspective respite amid the album's escalating tension. Featuring a guest verse from Jay Rock, a fellow Top Dawg Entertainment affiliate, it contrasts the preceding track's frantic energy with Beach House-sampled dreaminess, evoking the seductive haze of gangsta fantasies while Lamar reflects on generational cycles of hustling and loss—evident in references to his uncle's shooting and the chorus's mantra of "imagining money trees."^[28] This interlude advances the story by humanizing the allure of quick gains, as Lamar weighs street validation against familial warnings, a motif reinforced by recurring maternal voicemails throughout the album that interrupt the narrative flow.^[20] Critics have noted how this positioning heightens the concept album's cohesion, transforming individual songs into sequential vignettes that build toward the climactic "m.A.A.d city," where the perils of unchecked ambition culminate.^[29] Transitioning into "Poetic Justice," "Money Trees" also facilitates a pivot from material temptation to interpersonal dynamics, with its outro skit—friends joking about Lamar being "faded" from the "wrong blunt"—hinting at escalating paranoia and substance-fueled disorientation that permeates later tracks.^[28] In the broader structure, the song exemplifies Lamar's use of non-linear storytelling, blending youthful bravado (via Jay Rock's raw Compton perspective) with retrospective critique, thereby reinforcing the album's duality of "good kid" innocence versus "m.A.A.d city" madness without resolving the internal conflict.^[20] This deliberate sequencing, as analyzed in narrative breakdowns, emphasizes causal progression from peer influence to aspirational delusion, grounding the project's realism in verifiable Compton socio-economic pressures documented in Lamar's interviews and the album's dedication to his upbringing.^[29]

Initial Promotion

"Money Trees," featuring Jay Rock, debuted as the fifth track on Kendrick Lamar's major-label album good kid, m.A.A.d city, released on October 22, 2012, by Top Dawg Entertainment, Aftermath Entertainment, and Interscope Records.^[30] The song's initial exposure stemmed from the album's promotional campaign, which included a television commercial aired around the release date emphasizing Lamar's Compton roots and narrative style.^[31] Unlike lead singles such as "The Recipe" and "Swimming Pools (Drank)," "Money Trees" was not serviced to radio or released as a standalone promotional single at launch, relying instead on album streams, digital sales, and fan-driven sharing for early visibility.^[32] Lamar and Jay Rock performed "Money Trees" live for the first time on October 24, 2012, during an album signing event at a Best Buy store in New York City's Union Square, marking one of the earliest public showcases of the track post-release.^[33] This in-store appearance, part of broader album rollout events, helped generate immediate buzz among attendees and online audiences via video uploads. The track's atmospheric production and thematic depth quickly resonated, driving organic downloads that propelled it to early chart recognition without dedicated radio airplay.^[34] The absence of formal single promotion for "Money Trees" initially contrasted with the album's overall marketing, which leveraged Lamar's association with Dr. Dre and Interscope's resources to build anticipation through interviews and endorsements.^[35] Despite this, the song's placement amid the album's cohesive storytelling contributed to its rapid fan adoption, setting the stage for later retrospective acclaim as a standout cut.^[7]

Visual Media

Music Video

The music video for "Money Trees" remains unreleased despite principal photography commencing in late August 2013. Director Taj Stansberry announced on August 28, 2013, that he had begun shooting the project with Kendrick Lamar and Jay Rock in a desert location near Santa Clarita, California.^[36] The footage captured elements aligned with the song's themes of temptation and street life, but no further details on the visual narrative or completion status have been publicly disclosed by the involved parties.^[37] No official rationale for shelving the video has been provided, though speculation among fans attributes it to shifts in promotional priorities following the album's release, as Lamar focused visuals on other singles like "Swimming Pools (Drank)" and "Bitch, Don't Kill My Vibe."^[38] Fan-made edits and lyric videos have circulated online, but none represent authorized content from Lamar's label, Top Dawg Entertainment or Interscope Records. The absence of an official video has not hindered the song's cultural footprint, with audio uploads garnering millions of views on platforms like YouTube since the track's debut in October 2012.^[39]

Additional Visuals

An unreleased music video for "Money Trees," directed by Taj Stansberry, was shot in 2013 featuring Kendrick Lamar and Jay Rock. The project incorporated a cinematic style blending live-action with stylized effects and symbolic imagery to depict the song's themes of aspiration, temptation, and Compton street life in a surreal, layered narrative. Stansberry drew conceptual influences from The Matrix (1999) and Inception (2010), emphasizing dreamlike surrealism to mirror the track's introspective duality between dream and reality. Filming took place in a desert setting in Santa Clarita, California, but the video was ultimately shelved by the label, with no official release or stated rationale provided in director interviews. No other official alternate visuals, such as lyric videos or visualizers, were produced by Interscope Records or Top Dawg Entertainment for the track. Fan-generated lyric videos, however, proliferated on platforms like YouTube, often synchronizing animated text with the audio to highlight key lyrics amid the song's atmospheric production.^[40]^[41]

Performances

Live Performances

"Money Trees" debuted live on October 24, 2012, when Kendrick Lamar and Jay Rock performed it at an album signing event held at a Best Buy store in Union Square, New York City.^[33]^[42] This impromptu set marked one of the earliest public renditions of the track following its inclusion on Lamar's major-label debut album good kid, m.A.A.d city. The song has been a recurring element in Lamar's concert setlists across multiple tours and events, appearing in over 200 documented performances as of 2025.^[43] Notable instances include its delivery at President Barack Obama's Fourth of July barbecue at the White House on July 4, 2016, as part of a family-friendly set featuring clean versions of several tracks from good kid, m.A.A.d city.^[44]^[45] It was also featured with Jay Rock at The Pop Out: Ken & Friends concert at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California, on June 19, 2024.^[46] On the Damn Tour in 2017, "Money Trees" appeared in sets at venues such as Staples Center in Los Angeles on August 6.^[47] The Big Steppers Tour in 2022 included it at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on September 14.^[48] During the 2025 Grand National Tour, performances took place at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood on May 24, Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on April 30, Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys in Barcelona on September 12, and in Argentina around October 4.^[49]^[50]^[51]^[52] Festival appearances have encompassed Austin City Limits on October 13, 2023.^[53]

Reception

Critical Analysis

"Money Trees" exemplifies Kendrick Lamar's thematic exploration of temptation, as the artist himself described the track as centering on the allure of material success amid moral hazards in Compton's environment of poverty and violence.^[6] Lamar's lyrics juxtapose dreams of escape through hustling—"Imagine if your first blunt had you foaming at the mouth"—with sobering reflections on consequences, such as sexually transmitted diseases and the futility of quick riches, underscoring a causal link between desperation and risky behaviors rather than unbridled glorification.^[10] This introspective duality avoids simplistic endorsement of street life, instead portraying ambition as a double-edged force that perpetuates cycles of dependency, evidenced by lines critiquing peers' envy and self-destructive pursuits post-windfall.^[19] The production, helmed by DJ Dahi, enhances this tension through a reversed and slowed sample from Beach House's "Silver Soul," transforming an ethereal guitar riff into an ominous, dreamlike haze that mirrors the song's seductive yet perilous undertones.^[7] Critics note this manipulation evokes a "sinister, lawless vibe" with added stomping drums, positioning "Money Trees" as a pinnacle of Los Angeles rap's atmospheric innovation, where indie elements collide with gangsta narratives to amplify emotional ambiguity.^[7] Jay Rock's guest verse injects gritty realism, detailing robberies and betrayals, which Rolling Stone has hailed as one of the decade's strongest features, grounding Lamar's abstractions in verifiable Compton dynamics without romanticizing outcomes.^[54] While broadly acclaimed for its lyrical precision and sonic benchmark-setting—Rolling Stone ranking it among Lamar's top tracks for confronting "demons that linger beneath ambition"—the song's vivid depictions of temptation have prompted broader hip-hop discourse on whether such narratives, even critically framed, risk normalizing violence for impressionable listeners.^[54] ^[7] However, Lamar's emphasis on personal agency and regret, drawn from his upbringing, lends empirical authenticity, distinguishing it from uncritical gangsta rap precedents by prioritizing causal realism over escapism.^[21] This structural restraint in good kid, m.A.A.d city elevates "Money Trees" as a cautionary artifact, though its melodic appeal may dilute the critique's urgency for casual audiences.^[54]

Public and Cultural Response

"Money Trees" has achieved enduring popularity among listeners, surpassing 2 billion streams on Spotify by September 2025, reflecting its broad appeal to both casual audiences and dedicated hip-hop enthusiasts.^[55] The track's introspective lyrics on the temptations of street life versus dreams of financial escape have resonated widely, positioning it as a fan favorite from Lamar's 2012 album good kid, m.A.A.d city.^[56] Live performances consistently elicit enthusiastic responses, with audiences singing along during major tours such as the 2025 Grand National Tour with SZA and Coachella sets, underscoring its status as a concert staple.^[57]^[58] In cultural discourse, the song's motif of "money trees" as a symbol of unattainable prosperity has been invoked in high-profile rap feuds. During the 2024 escalation of tensions between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, Drake referenced the track in his diss song "Family Matters," accusing Lamar of failing to invest in Compton despite the song's themes of communal uplift, stating, "Don't even go back to your hood and plant no money trees."^[59] This allusion reignited discussions about the song's narrative of aspiration amid systemic poverty, amplifying its relevance in contemporary hip-hop rivalries.^[60] The track's atmospheric production and Beach House sample have also influenced production styles in West Coast rap, contributing to its lasting emblematic role in portraying urban ambition's dual edges.^[7]

Commercial Performance

Chart Achievements

"Money Trees" did not enter the Billboard Hot 100 during its initial release but has seen retrospective chart activity driven by streaming resurgence. It peaked at number 19 on the Bubbling Under Hot 100 Singles chart in August 2020, reflecting seven weeks of accumulation from digital sales and streams.^[61] The track also appeared on the chart in January 2013 at number 25 for two weeks.^[62] On genre-specific U.S. charts, "Money Trees" debuted and peaked at number 68 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart in January 2013.^[63] It reached number 13 on the Hot Rap Songs chart upon re-entry on February 22, 2025, marking one week on the tally amid heightened catalog interest.^[64] Additionally, it debuted at number 38 on the Streaming Songs chart the same week, underscoring its enduring digital consumption.^[65] Internationally, the song achieved modest placements. In the United Kingdom, it peaked at number 94 on the Official Singles Chart for one week on February 27, 2025.^[66] On the Official Hip Hop and R&B Singles Chart, it reached a high of number 18, accumulating 22 weeks by August 2025 with two weeks in the top 20.^[66] The track has also registered on the Billboard Global 200, ranking number 166 on the 2023 year-end chart based on worldwide streams and sales.^[67]

Certifications and Sales Data

In the United States, "Money Trees" has been certified 7× Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), signifying shipments and equivalent units of 7 million copies as reported in September 2024.^[68] By early 2025, the track surpassed 10 million certified units, qualifying it for Diamond status, though the RIAA had not yet updated the official award at that time.^[69] These units encompass a combination of physical and digital sales, paid downloads, and streaming equivalents, where 150 on-demand audio/video streams count as one unit. Globally, equivalent album sales estimates for the single exceed 2.4 million units as of late 2025, driven primarily by streaming performance.^[70] On Spotify, "Money Trees" accumulated over 2 billion streams by September 2025, marking it as Kendrick Lamar's fourth track to reach this milestone.^[71] No certifications from other countries' industry bodies, such as Music Canada or BPI in the UK, have been awarded or publicly reported for "Money Trees" as of October 2025.

Legacy and Impact

Cultural Significance

"Money Trees" holds a prominent place in hip-hop culture as a narrative of aspiration amid urban hardship, encapsulating the moral dilemmas faced by youth in Compton, California, where the pursuit of wealth often intersects with violence and ethical compromise.^[7] The track's lyrics, delivered by Kendrick Lamar and Jay Rock, depict the allure of "money trees" as a metaphor for financial security that provides "shade" from life's struggles, yet at the cost of glorifying shooters over survivors, reflecting real cycles of poverty and gang life in South Central Los Angeles.^[7] This portrayal has positioned the song as one of the definitive Los Angeles rap tracks of the 2010s, serving as a "portal" to the region's rap legacy by blending personal storytelling with broader critiques of socioeconomic pressures.^[7] The song's production, featuring a reversed and slowed sample from Beach House's "Silver Soul," exemplifies innovative sampling techniques that evoke a haunting, time-warping atmosphere, drawing parallels to historical hip-hop methods like those pioneered by Wu-Tang Clan while advancing West Coast soundscapes.^[7] DJ Dahi's approach—reversing short guitar loops and layering ominous drums—created a track that "consumes the oxygen" in its intensity, influencing subsequent rap productions by emphasizing emotional depth over bombast.^[7] Analysts have noted its role in bridging indie rock elements with rap, broadening hip-hop's sonic palette and contributing to the genre's evolution toward introspective, sample-driven narratives.^[7] Beyond music, "Money Trees" has informed discussions on financial literacy within African American communities, with commentators extracting lessons on poverty's symptoms, the transformative effects of sudden wealth, and the need for legitimate paths to prosperity over illicit gains.^[26] Its enduring resonance is evidenced by surpassing 2 billion streams on Spotify by September 2025, marking it as Kendrick Lamar's fourth song and Jay Rock's first to reach this milestone, underscoring sustained cultural relevance despite initial limited chart promotion.^[55] This longevity highlights the track's status as an anthem for generational themes of ambition and cautionary realism in hip-hop.^[55]

Long-term Influence and Adaptations

"Money Trees" has maintained significant long-term popularity, surpassing 2 billion streams on Spotify as of September 2025, reflecting its enduring appeal within hip-hop and broader streaming audiences.^[55] This milestone positions it as one of Kendrick Lamar's most streamed tracks, alongside hits like "HUMBLE." and "LOVE.", and underscores the song's role in sustaining interest in Lamar's early narrative-driven work from good kid, m.A.A.d city.^[72] The track's production techniques, particularly DJ Dahi's manipulation of the Beach House sample "Silver Soul" into a hazy, atmospheric beat, have influenced subsequent hip-hop production by demonstrating the viability of incorporating indie and dream-pop elements into rap instrumentation.^[7] This approach, blending ethereal textures with West Coast gangsta rap motifs, has been cited in breakdowns of modern beat-making for its innovative layering and emotional depth.^[19] Musically, "Money Trees" has been adapted through interpolations and samples in later works, evidencing its melodic and lyrical permeation in the genre. Interpolations include Eminem's reference to the hook in "Berzerk" (2013), Lil Yachty's "Good Day" featuring Skippa Da Flippa (2016), Jay Rock's "Money Trees Deuce" with Lance Skiiiwalker (2015), and YRN Veezo's "Hit That" with Sexyy Red (2023).^[73] Samples appear in tracks like Starlito's "Money Cacti" and JUSTHIS's "Sell the Soul" (2016), extending its sonic footprint.^[74] Unofficial remixes, such as the Duke & Jones extended edit (2023) and John Summit's DJ set rendition, highlight its versatility in electronic music adaptations.^[75] Culturally, the song's central metaphor of "money trees" as a symbol of escape from poverty and violence has influenced vernacular usage beyond music, appearing in discussions of financial stability and ambition as providing "shade" from life's hardships.^[76] Ongoing live performances, including joint appearances by Lamar and Jay Rock as recently as 2024, affirm its integration into live hip-hop repertoires.

References

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Money tree (Pachira aquatica): Home
Mar 21, 2025 · These easy-care houseplants grow into attractive, 3 to 6 foot plants with willowy, woody stems and large whorls of compound leaves at the top.
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How To Grow & Care For a Money Tree - Gardeners Supply
Mar 27, 2025 · Originating from Central and South America, the money tree is a tropical plant often associated with Feng Shui elements of luck and fortune.<|separator|>
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Kendrick Lamar's 'Money Trees' Is A Time Machine - NPR
Apr 18, 2020 · Writer Jeff Weiss looks at a song by Kendrick Lamar, produced by DJ Dahi. Built around an atmospheric sample just a few seconds long.
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Who produced “Money Trees” by Kendrick Lamar? - Genius
Money Trees” by Kendrick Lamar was produced by Dahi.
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Q&A With Grammy-nominated Music Producer DJ Dahi
May 24, 2014 · He is most recognized for helping produce “Money Trees,” a song from Kendrick Lamar's Grammy-nominated album “Good Kid, M.A.A.D. City,” as well ...
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Kendrick Lamar – Money Trees Lyrics - Genius
What did Kendrick Lamar say about "Money Trees"? ... Kendrick Lamar says this song is about lust, about struggles with want for material things. As he explained ...
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"Money Trees" by Kendrick Lamar feat. Jay Rock sampled Beach House's "Silver Soul". Listen to both songs on WhoSampled.
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BPM and key for Money Trees by Kendrick Lamar | Tempo for Money Trees
### Musical Specifications for "Money Trees" by Kendrick Lamar
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Money Trees by Kendrick Lamar Chords and Melody - Hooktheory
Money Trees is written in the key of B Phrygian. According to the Theorytab database, it is the 9th most popular key among Phrygian keys and the 59th most ...Missing: structure | Show results with:structure
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Money Trees Samples: Cartoon & Cereal, Kendrick Lamar, Gunplay (2012), Read the lyrics, Silver Soul, Beach House (2010), Read the lyrics.
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Money Trees by Kendrick Lamar feat. Jay Rock - WhoSampled
Money Trees by Kendrick Lamar feat. Jay Rock - discover this song's samples ... Kendrick Lamar has described this track's driving force as "temptation," more ...Silver Soul · Big Ballin' Wit My Homies · Cartoon & Cereal
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Kendrick Lamar - Money Trees ft. Jay Rock (prod by DJ Dahi)
Sep 18, 2022 · Sample Breakdown: Kendrick Lamar - Money Trees ft. Jay Rock (prod by DJ Dahi) · Comments.Missing: production | Show results with:production
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[19]
Kendrick Lamar Money Trees Meaning and Review - Stay Free Radio
Sep 1, 2024 · Kendrick Lamar's "Money Trees" is a lyrical tapestry woven with the threads of ambition, desperation, and the harsh realities of Compton.Missing: origin | Show results with:origin
[20]
good kid, m.A.A.d city Storyline Breakdown Lyrics - Genius
... Money Trees (feat. Jay Rock) / 6. Poetic. ... A storyline breakdown of Kendrick Lamar's major label debut, good kid, m.A.A.d city.Missing: analysis | Show results with:analysis
[21]
The Meaning Behind "Money Trees", Kendrick Lamar - insomnia
May 8, 2024 · In “Money Trees,” the rapper offers an introspective look at the struggles and aspirations of youth raised in the impoverished neighborhoods of Compton.
[22]
Meaning of 'Money Trees' by 'Kendrick Lamar' - Beats, Rhymes and Lists
### Summary of "Money Trees" by Kendrick Lamar
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10 Kendrick Lamar Lyrics That Were More Profound Than You ...
May 7, 2025 · Martyrdom is laid bare in only a few words on Kendrick Lamar's "Money Trees". The meaning behind the lyrics is quite straightforward, but in ...
[24]
Denouncing Hip-Hop Criticism - Whitman Wire
Feb 14, 2019 · Lamar has a big white audience who truly enjoy hearing songs such as “Maad City” or “Money Trees” that criticize American society and its ...
[25]
What Is The Meaning Behind Kendrick Lamar's Money Trees - IPL.org
This essay argues that *“Money Trees”* is a profound exploration of the psychological and social toll that poverty inflicts on young Black men, as well as a ...Missing: glorify | Show results with:glorify
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5 Money Lessons from Kendrick Lamars 'Money Trees'
Nov 9, 2012 · 1. Poverty has its (mostly unfortunate) symptoms. · 2. Suddenly having a lot of money changes folks' attitudes, motives and ambitions. · 3.
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Kendrick Lamar - good kid, m.A.A.d city Lyrics and Tracklist | Genius
Oct 22, 2012 · ... Kendrick takes you through a vivid story of how… read more. 5. Money Trees (Ft. Jay Rock) Lyrics. 6.9M. Track Info. Featuring Jay Rock. Produced ...Missing: analysis | Show results with:analysis<|separator|>
[28]
The Narrative Guide To Kendrick Lamar's 'good kid, m.A.A.d city'
Apr 17, 2013 · GKMC's narrative focuses on K.Dot's transition to Kendrick Lamar as he tries to break free from Compton.
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Kendrick Lamar's 'Good Kid, mAAd City': A Lesson In Storytelling
He's then faced with a dilemma, does he follow the path of his peers, or keep his head down and make that money, which leads to “Money Trees.” “Poetic Justice” ...
[30]
When did Kendrick Lamar release “Money Trees”? - Genius
When did Kendrick Lamar release “Money Trees”? Community Answer. Kendrick Lamar released “Money Trees” on October 22, 2012.
[31]
good kid, m.A.A.d city | Kendrick Lamar | Official Commercial
Oct 23, 2012 · Kendrick Lamar "good kid, m.A.A.d city" is available in stores ( http://t.co/C9T1bYmN ) and on iTunes ( http://t.co/Nx5re80K ) now!
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Money Trees should have been released as a single - Reddit
Mar 21, 2018 · It's released on the album but also promoted as a single that is sent to the radio and is given a music video and greater promotion by the label.Kendrick Lamar & Jay Rock Perform Money Trees For The First Time ...BehindTheBeat Kendrick Lamar -Money Trees : r/hiphopheadsMore results from www.reddit.comMissing: initial | Show results with:initial
[33]
Kendrick Lamar & Jay Rock Perform Money Trees For The First Time ...
Oct 24, 2012 · Yesterday Kendrick Lamar held his second album signing in Best Buy at Union Square, NYC and started off by performing "Swimming Pools ...
[34]
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6uUcC-SEX3/
[35]
Hype surrounding Kendrick Lamar's Good Kid, M.A.A.D City - Reddit
Nov 10, 2012 · I think a lot of Kendrick's success is because of great promotion by his label, simply his connection with Dre. If he didn't have Dre and ...[DISCUSSION] Kendrick Lamar - good kid, m.A.A.d. city (10 Years ...Throwback: Mac Miller in the Good Kid, Maad City Tour Promo videoMore results from www.reddit.com
[36]
Songs About Money: 32 Tunes About Cash - uDiscover Music
In 2013, director Taj Stansberry shared that a music video had been started for the song, although it has never been released. Money Trees. Money Trees Watch ...Missing: unreleased details
[37]
TAJ: Kendrick Lamar “Money Trees” Unreleased Music ... - YouTube
Feb 21, 2025 · See Full Episode: https://youtu.be/uSV9SjOum0I Director TAJ shares his story of the unreleased "Money Trees" music video by Kendrick Lamar.
[38]
Apparently back in 2013 Money Trees was supposed to have a ...
May 19, 2018 · Apparently back in 2013 Money Trees was supposed to have a music video along with it so I did some digging to find out what happened.Can someone explain Money Trees to me? : r/KendrickLamar - RedditKendrick Lamar - Money Trees feat. Jay Rock [Rap/Hip-hop] : r/MusicMore results from www.reddit.com
[39]
Kendrick Lamar - Money Trees (Feat. Jay Rock) - YouTube
Oct 25, 2012 · Honestly... whoever is here from TikTok... I'm not mad, I'm happy that you had the opportunity to discover this song.Missing: single | Show results with:single
[40]
Director Taj Stansberry Talks Concept Behind Kendrick Lamar's ...
Aug 28, 2013 · Kendrick Lamar has tapped super director Taj Stansberry for his next visual. In an interview with Global Grind, Taj spills (some) beans on ...
[41]
Taj Stansberry Reveals The Plot To Kendrick Lamar's "Money Trees ...
Aug 27, 2013 · Director Taj Stansberry is he placing the final touches on Kendrick Lamar's next video for "Money Trees," and crafting a new website...Missing: unreleased | Show results with:unreleased
[42]
Kendrick Lamar & Jay Rock "Money Trees" Live @ Best Buy, Union ...
Oct 24, 2012 · Kendrick Lamar held his second album signing in Best Buy at Union Square in New-York City & started off by performing "Swimming Pools (Drank)", "Backseat ...
[43]
Money Trees by Kendrick Lamar Song Statistics | setlist.fm
View concert statistics of Money Trees by Kendrick Lamar played live. Check out who covered the song and in which years it was played and how often!Missing: serviced date
[44]
Obama, Kendrick Lamar Sing at BBQ - Billboard
Jul 5, 2016 · Watch President Obama, Kendrick Lamar and Janelle Monáe Sing 'Happy Birthday' at Fourth of July BBQ. After all, it's the job of a father to ...
[45]
Kendrick Lamar, Janelle Monáe make President Obama's Fourth of ...
Jul 4, 2016 · Kendrick's setlist included “Swimming Pools (Drank)”, “Money Trees”, “Bitch Don't Kill My Vibe”, “Poetic Justice”, “A.D.H.D.”, and “Alright”.
[46]
Kendrick Lamar Setlist at The Pop Out: Ken & Friends 2024
Jun 19, 2024 · Money Trees. (with Jay Rock). Play Video. WIN. (Jay Rock cover) (with Jay Rock). Play Video. King's Dead. (Jay Rock, Kendrick Lamar, Future & ...
[47]
Kendrick Lamar Setlist at Staples Center, Los Angeles
Aug 6, 2017 · Songs on Albums · Backseat Freestyle · Bitch, Don't Kill My Vibe · Money Trees · Swimming Pools (Drank) · m.A.A.d city.
[48]
Kendrick Lamar, Money Trees on the Big Steppers Tour at Crypto ...
Sep 15, 2022 · Kendrick Lamar performs Money Trees on the Big Steppers Tour at Crypto Arena in Los Angeles on 9/14/22.
[49]
Kendrick Lamar, Money Trees & Poetic Justice at SoFi ... - YouTube
May 25, 2025 · Kendrick Lamar performs Money Trees & Poetic Justice at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles (5/24/2025) [4K] Shot in 4K at 60fps on iPhone 16 Pro ...
[50]
Money Trees (Live at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on 04 ...
Apr 30, 2025 · Kendrick Lamar performing Money Trees at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta part of the Grand National Tour.
[51]
Money Trees (Live from Grand National Tour 2025, Barcelona, Spain)
Sep 12, 2025 · KendrickLamar #Concert #GrandNationalTour Kendrick Lamar performing 'Money Trees' live at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, Barcelona, ...
[52]
Kendrick Lamar Performs 'Money Trees' in Argentina Live - Instagram
Oct 4, 2025 · Kendrick Lamar's live performance of 'Money Trees' in Argentina is a testament to his artistry and ability to connect with audiences ...
[53]
Kendrick Lamar - Money Trees [Live @ ACL Music Fest] 10/13/2023
Apr 4, 2025 · Kendrick Lamar performs "Money Trees" at Austin City Limits Music Festival in Austin, TX on Friday, October 13th, 2023.
[54]
“Money Trees,” feat. Jay Rock (2012) - Rolling Stone Australia
Nov 9, 2021 · The “Money Trees” in question are the trappings of success, and in what remains the best execution of his career, he confronts the demons that ...
[55]
Kendrick Lamar & Jay Rock's “Money Trees” Surpasses 2 Billion ...
Sep 11, 2025 · Kendrick Lamar and Jay Rock's “Money Trees” surpasses 2 billion ... favorite for both casual listeners and die-hard hip-hop fans alike.
[56]
Kendrick Lamar & Jay Rock Made An Instant Classic With "Money ...
Jun 20, 2024 · Last night, Kendrick Lamar and Jay Rock performed "Money Trees" and it had everyone feeling nostalgic for 2012.<|separator|>
[57]
Kendrick & SZA's Grand National Tour: Setlist for First Show - Billboard
Apr 20, 2025 · Kendrick Lamar & SZA's Grand National Tour Setlist: Every Song From the First Show ... “Money Trees,” Kendrick Lamar. Trending on Billboard. 37. “ ...
[58]
Kendrick Lamar Wraps Coachella on 'DAMN.' High Note ... - Billboard
Apr 17, 2017 · Kendrick Lamar stuns and awes with headlining Coachella set ... Money Trees,” “Backseat Freestyle,” “Bitch Don't Kill My Vibe” and ...<|separator|>
[59]
Drake and Kendrick Lamar Get Personal on Simultaneous Diss Tracks
May 3, 2024 · “Don't even go back to your hood and plant no money trees,” he states, referring to Lamar's “Money Trees” that came out in 2012. “Say you ...
[60]
Drake And Kendrick Beef Reignites With Both Releasing New Tracks
May 4, 2024 · ... money trees,” referencing Lamar's 2012 hit “Money Trees” off “Good Kid, m.A.A.d. City.” Lamar then hit back at Drake with his release of ...
[61]
Bubbling Under Hot 100 - Billboard
Aug 29, 2020 · Money Trees. Kendrick Lamar Featuring Jay Rock. LW; -. PEAK; 19. WEEKS; 7. LW; -; PEAK; 19; WEEKS; 7. Debut Position. 25. Debut Chart Date. 01/ ...
[62]
Bubbling Under Hot 100 - Billboard
Money Trees. Kendrick Lamar Featuring Jay Rock. LW; 25. PEAK; 25. WEEKS; 2. LW; 25; PEAK; 25; WEEKS; 2. Debut Position. 25. Debut Chart Date. 01/19/13. Peak ...
[63]
Jay Rock's First Hot 100 Entry: 'King's Dead' feat. Kendrick Lamar
Jan 24, 2018 · Jay Rock previously landed one other title on Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, as featured on Lamar's “Money Trees.” The track debuted and peaked at ...<|separator|>
[64]
Kendrick Lamar | Biography, Music & News | Billboard
Hot Rap Songs. Billboard Hot 100™; Billboard Hot 100™; Billboard 200™ ... Money Trees. Kendrick Lamar Featuring Jay Rock. 2/22/25. 13 12 Wks. 2/22/25. 1 ...<|separator|>
[65]
Kendrick Lamar | Biography, Music & News | Billboard
Kendrick Lamar Featuring Beth Gibbons. 5/28/22. 36 12 Wks. 5/28/22. 1. Money Trees. Kendrick Lamar Featuring Jay Rock. 2/22/25. 38 12 Wks. 2/22/25. 1. Freedom.
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MONEY TREES – KENDRICK LAMAR FT J-ROCK | Official Charts
First Chart Date 27/02/2025. Weeks on chart. 0No1; 0Top 10; 0Top 20; 0Top 40 ... Radio 1 icon Radio1. Check out the Radio 1 Chart show. Facebook icon Facebook.
[67]
Billboard Global 200 Songs
... 2020. Only appears on this Year-End Chart. See more Year-End Charts. 166. Money Trees. Kendrick Lamar Featuring Jay Rock. Also appears on these Year End Charts.
[68]
https://x.com/billboardhiphop/status/1836491812040581265
[69]
Kendrick Lamar's 'HUMBLE' has now sold over 20M units ... - Reddit
Feb 10, 2025 · Tbf Money Trees has now surpassed 10M. At least it's diamond ... RIAA certification is based on US sales. So Humble is bigger in ...
[70]
Kendrick Lamar albums and songs sales - ChartMasters
Money Trees is third, with over 2.4 million EAS, while Swimming Pools (Drank) ranks fifth with 1.9 million. Bitch, Don't Kill My Vibe also makes the top 10.
[71]
Kendrick's fourth song to hit 2 billion streams is a ... - Facebook
Sep 11, 2025 · Kendrick Lamar and Jay Rock's "Money Trees" has now surpassed 2 billion streams on Spotify, becoming Kendrick's fourth song to achieve this.
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Kendrick Lamar - Spotify Top Songs - Kworb.net
Peaks. Kendrick Lamar - Spotify Top Songs | Current charts | YouTube ... Money Trees. 2,041,522,113, 978,877. LOVE. FEAT. ZACARI. 1,744,418,943, 667,369.
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Kendrick Lamar – Money Trees Interpolations | Genius
Songs That Interpolate Money Trees ; Stadi On Kylmä. ibe (2019) ; Berzerk. Eminem (2013) ; Good Day. Lil Yachty, Skippa Da Flippa (2016) ; Money Trees. Lil Skies ( ...
[74]
Songs that Sampled Money Trees by Kendrick Lamar feat. Jay Rock
Sampled in 5 songs ; Starlito's Money Cacti, Money Cacti · Starlito ; Okasian's Pshh, Pshh · Okasian ; JUSTHIS's Sell the Soul, Sell the Soul · JUSTHIS ; Kreepa's ...
[75]
Money Trees (feat. Jay Rock) [Duke & Jones Remix] [Mixed]
Apr 12, 2024 · Listen to Money Trees (feat. Jay Rock) [Duke & Jones Remix] [Mixed] by Kendrick Lamar on Apple Music. 2024. Duration: 5:54.
[76]
Money Trees is the perfect place for shade - Reyes Group
May 28, 2024 · The “Money Trees” in the song refer to the idea that having money provides a sense of comfort and security, much like a tree provides shade from the sun.