Kendrick Lamar, one of the most influential figures in modern hip-hop, rarely engages in interviews, but he took a moment to speak with Apple Music?s Nadeska and Ebro Darden on Thursday morning, February 6, in New Orleans. This conversation took place just before his highly anticipated performance at the Super Bowl LIX halftime show this weekend, where fans expect an unforgettable experience.
During the half-hour interview, Lamar reflected on his year and the ongoing rivalry with Drake, although he didn’t specifically mention him. The acclaimed artist discussed his impressive achievements in 2024, carrying the momentum from last year into this year. Notably, he celebrated five Grammy wins on Sunday, including prestigious awards for song of the year and record of the year for his track ?Not Like Us,? further solidifying his status in the music industry.
Following the Super Bowl, Kendrick Lamar and SZA will embark on the Grand National Tour, a highly anticipated series of performances across major stadiums in North America. Fans can expect a blend of his powerful lyrics and captivating stage presence, making it a must-see event for hip-hop enthusiasts.
Despite his remarkable success and numerous accolades, Lamar remains grounded. He stated, ?It?s just a continuum of who I am, really. I?ve always stayed to myself and been in my own bubble whether it?s with the fam or my training.? He emphasized the importance of self-improvement and dedication to his craft, stating that he continues to focus on bettering himself and not getting distracted by fame and the glitz of the industry.
Kendrick made a striking debut during his first Super Bowl performance in Los Angeles in 2022, sharing the stage with iconic artists like Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and Mary J. Blige. His return to the Super Bowl stage has fans eager to see how he will integrate his unique style into this highly watched event.
As he prepares to take the stage in New Orleans, Lamar promises to deliver a performance filled with profound “storytelling” that resonates with the audience. His ability to weave narratives through his music is a hallmark of his artistry, and he aims to elevate this aspect during the high-profile event.
Here are five key insights we gained from Kendrick Lamar’s insightful interview with Apple Music that highlight his thoughts and upcoming plans.
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Exploring the Creative Vision Behind His ?GNX? Album
In his latest project, GNX, Kendrick Lamar sought to reconnect with the foundational elements that sparked his passion for rap. He emphasizes the essence of ?hard raps? delivered over ?good beats.? With a streamlined and impactful 12-track album, Lamar wasted no time in showcasing his lyrical prowess and creativity.
Lamar expressed, ?It was an energy that was bubbling inside me as well. I wanted to go back to the forefront of just the bite and the grit of rap. All raps and hard-a? beats. That?s the basics for me.? He reminisced about his childhood inspirations, recalling the excitement of hard-hitting beats that captivated him. This return to his roots reflects his commitment to authenticity in his music.
Kenny elaborated: ?It was a great transition from Mr. Morale because that was my most intimate. I wanted to explore my own psyche and personal challenges, connecting with listeners who might relate. This time, I felt it was essential to emerge from that cocoon and embrace a broader spectrum of creativity.?
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Emphasizing Storytelling in His Upcoming Halftime Show
As excitement builds for Kendrick Lamar?s halftime show, Darden probed into his creative process, seeking a glimpse of what fans can expect. Lamar’s response was clear and powerful: ?Storytelling.? He emphasized that storytelling has always been a critical aspect of his artistry, woven throughout his extensive catalog.
?I?ve always had a passion for bringing that storytelling element to whatever stage I?m on,? he added. ?I aim to make people not only listen but also see and contemplate the deeper meanings behind the performance.? This commitment to storytelling promises to elevate the viewing experience for fans during the Super Bowl performance.
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Reflecting on His Impact and Success in 2024
There is no denying Kendrick Lamar?s status as rap?s MVP for 2024. His impressive work, including his notable battles with Drake and the release of GNX, has garnered him recognition as Billboard?s Greatest Pop Star for the year. K. Dot has certainly set a high bar for himself with last year’s accomplishments.
Reflecting on his journey, he noted, ?I think from day one was to always keep the nature of it as a sport.? He observed that many were sidelining rap, and the authentic energy seemed to fade. ?So I always took that into consideration when creating my music,? he said, emphasizing his dedication to maintaining the competitive spirit within the genre.
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Celebrating the Grammy Recognition of ?Not Like Us?
Kendrick Lamar proudly added five more Grammy awards to his already impressive collection, making history with his victories in the Big Four categories. His track ?Not Like Us? achieved the prestigious honors of record and song of the year, marking a significant milestone as the first rap song to win in a top category since Childish Gambino?s ?This Is America? in 2019.
He spoke about his pride in restoring respect for hip-hop on the Grammy stage, highlighting the importance of placing rap back at the center of cultural conversations. ?When people talk about rap, man, they often overlook its artistic value,? he stated. ?By showcasing records like that, it reminds listeners that rap is a legitimate art form, deserving of recognition and appreciation.?
Kendrick?s passion for the genre shines through as he continues to advocate for the recognition of rap and its cultural significance.
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Staying Connected to His Roots by Watching Rap Battles
No matter how high Kendrick Lamar?s career ascends, he remains deeply rooted in his love for the art form. Just days before his Super Bowl performance, he expressed his admiration for battle rap, highlighting some of his favorite battlers, including his close friend Daylyt and the legendary Murda Mook.
?I love when artists grit their teeth. I still watch battle raps,? Kendrick shared. ?I keep up with Smack URL, from Murda Mook to [Loaded] Lux and Tay Roc, my bro Daylyt. This connection to battle rap has always been the core definition of who I am as an artist.?
