Kendrick Lamar is a true student of the game. He grew up in Compton in the glory days of the West Coast gangsta rap and G-funk movements. He famously perched on his father’s shoulders watching Dr. Dre and Tupac Shakur while they filmed the music video for California Love at the Compton Swap Meet.
Both rappers represented their city of Los Angeles with pride, both became a voice for the people, both are considered in the upper echelon of talent in their generations. Today marks 19 years since Pac’s untimely death, murdered in a hail of gunfire, an act that robbed the world of a once-in-a-lifetime talent. To commemorate his life on this day, Kendrick wrote a heartfelt and touching tribute, specifically referencing that famous childhood memory, and posted it on Tupac’s official website.
“I was 8 yrs old when I first saw you. I couldn’t describe how I felt at that moment. So many emotions. Full of excitement. Full of joy and eagerness. 20 yrs later I understand exactly what that feeling was. INSPIRED”
“The people that you touched on that small intersection changed lives forever. I told myself I wanted to be a voice for man one day. Whoever knew I was speaking out loud for u to listen. Thank you, K.L.”
A touching tribute from one generation to another. If you need us, we’ll be going to put on All Eyez On Me and trying not to cry. Thank you, K.L.