Kendrick Lamar Turns 38!
Compton’s Creative: Celebrating Kendrick Lamar’s 38th Birthday With All Of His Top 10 Billboard Hits - Page 3
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One of the greatest rappers of all time celebrates his 38th birthday today (June 17th). Continue reading to check out a gallery of some of Kendrick Lamar’s biggest hits to celebrate the grand occasion.
The Compton, California native began his career by releasing several mixtapes (under the name K-Dot) that gained considerable attention in the underground scene. In 2010, he started to turn heads in more than just his hometown with the release of the mixtape Overly Dedicated. His next project, the independent album Section.80, laid the groundwork for his mainstream breakthrough. The body of work showcased his uncanny ability to merge introspective lyricism and sharp social commentary.
Lamar made his major-label debut in 2012 with the critically acclaimed good kid, m.A.A.d city. The masterpiece chronicled his coming-of-age in Compton and included the tracks “Swimming Pools” and “Money Trees,” which become cultural staples. He then showed off his versatility and gave fans a bold and experimental album entitled To Pimp A Butterfly. The album fuzed jazz, funk, and spoken word to explore themes of Black identity, systemic oppression, and self-worth. At this point, Kendrick became more than just a rapper, he became a voice of the culture. His next album, DAMN., touched on morality, fame and inner conflict. With stand out tracks including “DNA.” and “HUMBLE.” the album earned Lamar the Pulitzer Prize for Music (the first ever awarded to a hip-hop artist). Kendrick then took a brief hiatus from solo work, but still showcased his influence across music and film when he curated the Black Panther soundtrack in 2018.
After parting ways with longtime label Top Dawg Entertainment in 2021, Lamar returned with Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers. The deeply introspective double album once again touched on topics extremely close to home including generational trauma, therapy, fatherhood and personal growth. With the album, Kendrick made it abundantly clear that he wasn’t afraid to confront uncomfortable truths, which critics lauded him for. Last year, Kendrick partook in one of the most legendary rap beefs of all time with Drake. The historic exchange led to numerous chart-toppers for Lamar, who the majority of the public crowned the winner. It was the perfect segue to his latest album, GNX. Surprising fans worldwide, it was a West Coast hip-hop project that leaned heavily into G-funk grooves with a modern edge.
Kendrick Lamar is undoubtedly one of the greatest to ever do it. His rare combination of lyrical brilliance, cultural impact and artistic innovation have set him apart from a lot of his peers. With a Pulitzer, 22 Grammys and may more accolades under his belt, it’s no surprise that his discography is full of slaps. To celebrate his birthday and untouchable legacy, check out a gallery of all his Top 10 Billboard Hot 100 hits. HAPPY 38TH KUNG FU KENNY!
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Compton’s Creative: Celebrating Kendrick Lamar’s 38th Birthday With All Of His Top 10 Billboard Hits - Page 3 was originally published on globalgrind.com
