Putting aside his Hip-Hop feuds and controversies just for a moment, Kendrick Lamar decided to use his time for something way more important.
The rapper took the stage at Compton College to deliver an inspiring commencement speech to the graduating class of 2024. While doing that he took that special moment to embrace his hometown and its impact on his life and career.
Addressing the audience with pride, Lamar acknowledged the significance of Compton, California, in shaping his identity. He began saying, “I’m out here just to tell y’all how much I appreciate y’all. I’m proud of the city of Compton, I’m proud of Compton College, most importantly I’m proud of the graduates out here,” Lamar told the graduates. “I know what it takes. You had a lot of hardship, not only in your house, in your communities, but most importantly, in yourself, and that’s the toughest thing to overcome. We still growing day by day, brick by brick, making sure we develop, not only in physical form but in the spiritual as well.”
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Speaking further of what Compton means to him, Lamar proclaimed, “Here is not only a representation of the world, but it’s a representation of me.”
Despite achieving global success and recognition, Lamar has always remained connected to his roots in Compton. He expressed his great belief in the city, stating, “I still believe in Compton. Compton has always been a future for me. We have bred some of the most incredible individuals, creators, intellectuals, and talents.”
Lamar’s speech was not just about celebrating his hometown but also about empowering the graduating class and challenging preconceived notions about their generation. He urged the young minds to take control of the narrative: “Some people tell us that this generation doesn’t have what it takes. They are wrong, though,” Lamar asserted. “Not only do you have what it takes, but you have something even bigger. You have the heart. You have the courage to be independent thinkers. There’s nothing more valuable than that.”
Compton College, founded in 1927, is a public community college located in California. It has a rich history of providing education and opportunities for the local community.
In addition to his commencement speech, Kendrick Lamar has other great things coming up. He recently announced an upcoming concert titled ‘The Pop Out—Ken And Friends.’ The highly anticipated event will take place on July 19 at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California.
For those who were unable to secure tickets, the concert will be streamed live on Prime Video and the Amazon Music channel on Twitch at 4 p.m. PT, coinciding with the celebrations of Black Music Month.