Recovering from his ongoing hip-hop feud with Drake, which rocked his fans’ world for over a month, Kendrick Lamar finally made his long-awaited public appearance. Arriving at Compton College’s convocation, the Pulitzer Prize-winning artist gave a surprise speech to the 2024 graduates.
Embracing the influence of his hometown, Compton, California, the ‘Humble’ hitmaker proudly told attendees in his rousing address: “This is not only a representation of the world, but it’s a representation of me.”
Kendrick Lamar’s Compton College Commencement Speech
Although Lamar’s words never fail to impress listeners, the “Rich Spirit” rapper’s Compton speech particularly impacted listeners, as he continued his genuine expression, which was full of inspiration for this year’s graduates.
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Despite traveling around the world spreading his art, Lamar hasn’t forgotten his roots. Referring to his hometown, Kendrick said, “There’s no place like here,” he also added, “I still believe in Compton. Compton has always been the future to me. I think we produce some of the most incredible individuals, creators, intellectuals, geniuses.”
Outspoken as always, Lamar hoped to break down preconceptions that target the morale of Gen Z. He urged the younger generation to take control of today’s narrative, “Some people tell us, this generation doesn’t have what it takes… They’re wrong though. You know why? Because not only do you all have what it takes, but you all have something even bigger. You all have heart.” Continuing with his awareness address, Lamar reminded the young minds, “You all have the courage to be free thinkers… There’s nothing more valuable than that.”
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Encouraging everyone to speak their minds with conviction and passion, while speaking fearlessly about it, the ‘Pride’ artist concluded his stunning speech by boosting the confidence of the graduates: “This degree that you all have is as great as any degree.”
Kendrick firmly stated in his closing remarks, “It’s all about taking these resources and applying what you’ve learned. It’s that simple.”
Founded in 1927, California-based Compton College is a public community college.
As for Lamar’s upcoming schedule, the 36-year-old rapper recently announced a unique concert, ‘The Pop Out-Kane & Friends.’ The much-anticipated event on July 19 will be held at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California, and will begin at 4 PM IST. If you missed out on tickets for the concert, Amazon Music channels on Prime Video and Twitch will be streaming the session live at 4 PM PT, in celebration of Black Music Month.
