Imagine it: 2012, 16 years old, and stuck inside on your day off. Not the ideal condition for spending summer vacation. I loathed around my house the whole day. I made stacks of pancakes, played 2K, and the mecca of all my activities at the time was finding new music. YouTube in one tab, and SoundCloud open in another, the title in bold black lettering on my computer read “Swimming Pools – Kendrick Lamar.”
Many have had that first Kendrick moment like I had. The Compton native has broken barriers in the realm of music, as his cultural dominance continues to rocket beyond the stratosphere. What makes him a leader in this contemporary scheme? Is it his reputability, his style, or maybe what he symbolizes? I'm here to shed some light.
1. Lyricism.
K-Dot is infamous for his ability to actually rap. With his infinite lexicon, he has conquered every mic and studio he’s had contact with. From his poetic flow in songs like “For Fee” and “Rigamortis” to his slasher-like finish in “Black Friday.” Kendrick is versatile in the way he spits. Why is this so special this day in age? It’s because many hip hop artists now, do not actually rap anymore. It’s just a collection of ad libs on a dope beat. But Mr. Lamar? He regurgitates a slew words at will. Anybody remember the infamous “Control” verse? It wasn’t even his song. The man bodied other prominent artists in just a feature.
2. Nostalgic touch.
Yes, even though he is a contemporary artist, the Compton MC incorporates an old school flavor. Tupac, N.W.A, Snoop Dogg, Nas, Jay-Z and other hip hop legends, are mirrored in the work of Kendrick, which is why his fan base is one of the most diverse in the world. Even his productions contains elements of the past. I personally enjoy the use of jazz and funk in his music. He's collaborated with guys my own father is a fan of, and my pops is a 54-year-old man. Musicians and producers like George Clinton, and Dr. Dre were credited in helping K-Dot grow.
3. Social commentary.
I enjoy when artists reflect their music on real world issues, but Kendrick? This man is on a completely new level. He kinda reminds me of today's Nina Simone. The MC brings issues to life, highlighting them in his lyrics.
His third studio album "To Pimp a Butterfly," released last year, embodied the issues that plague Black America. On this platform, Kendrick Lamar inspires others through the use of hip hop. As he continues to grow each day, be on the lookout for what unpredictable move he might do next.
