Kendrick Lamar: Drake's biggest rap rival is headlining the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX halftime show
What’s the biggest statement you can make against an opp? How about securing a massive Apple Music Super Bowl halftime show performance? Turns out rap heavyweight Kendrick Lamar is completely showing out in the coming months after getting named the LIX halftime show performer.
What’s the biggest statement you can make against an opp? How about securing a massive Apple Music Super Bowl halftime show performance? Turns out rap heavyweight Kendrick Lamar is completely showing out in the coming months after getting named the LIX halftime show performer.
Kendrick Lamar’s taking over the Super Bowl LIX halftime show
‘Not Like Us’ anyone? It’s going to be beyond epic for K. Dot getting the official green light to take over the stage
Roc Nation, Apple Music, and the NFL announced Kendrick Lamar will perform at the APPLE MUSIC SUPER BOWL LIX HALFTIME SHOW at The Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, LA on Sunday, February 9, 2025, airing on FOX.
“Rap music is still the most impactful genre to date. And I’ll be there to remind the world why. They got the right one.” - Kendrick Lamar
“Kendrick Lamar is truly a once-in-a-generation artist and performer. His deep love for hip-hop and culture informs his artistic vision. He has an unparalleled ability to define and influence culture globally. Kendrick’s work transcends music, and his impact will be felt for years to come.” - Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter"The Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show is a celebration of the music we love and the incredible artists who make it, all on the world’s biggest stage. Apple is thrilled to bring this show, starring the absolutely incomparable Kendrick Lamar, to fans worldwide with Apple Music’s industry leading Spatial Audio quality along with tons of exclusive videos, interviews, playlists and so much more across Apple Music." - Oliver Schusser, Apple’s Vice President of Apple Music, Apple TV+, Sports, and Beats.
"Few artists have impacted music and culture as profoundly as Kendrick Lamar. Time and time again, Kendrick has proven his unique ability to craft moments that resonate, redefine, and ultimately shake the very foundation of hip-hop." - Seth Dudowsky, Head of Music at the NFL. “We’re excited to collaborate with Kendrick, Roc Nation, and Apple Music to deliver another unforgettable Halftime Show."
Multi-Platinum, Grammy and Emmy award winning artist and co-founder of creative imprint pgLang, Kendrick Lamar, has achieved massive critical and cultural success since his debut album good kid, m.A.A.d city released in 2012. Since its release, Lamar has accumulated 17 Grammy wins, and became the first non-classical, non-jazz musician to win a Pulitzer Prize for his 2017 album DAMN. Lamar’s latest album Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, was released in May 2022. In April of this year, “Like That” by Future, Metro Boomin, and Kendrick Lamar spent three weeks at Number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and in June, Lamar’s record-breaking, “Not Like Us” spent two weeks at Number 1.
Creative Direction for Lamar’s performance will be provided by pgLang.
The Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show telecast will be produced by DPS with Roc Nation and Jesse Collins serving as executive producers, and Hamish Hamilton serving as director. Roc Nation will also serve as the strategic entertainment advisor of the live performance.
Apple Music’s multi year partnership with the NFL and Roc Nation brings together the Super Bowl Halftime Show — the most-watched musical performance of the year — with Apple Music, which celebrates musicians, songwriters, producers, and fans, and offers the world’s best music listening experience with a catalog of over 100 million songs and immersive sound powered by Spatial Audio. Apple revolutionized the music experience with iPod and iTunes and continues the award-winning tradition with Apple Music. Follow @AppleMusic on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter.
Earlier this year, The Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Starring Usher became the most-watched halftime performance of all time and garnered three 2024 Emmy nominations, including Outstanding Variety Special (LIVE). In 2023, The Apple Music Super Bowl LVII Halftime Show Starring Rihanna scored five Emmy nominations, taking home two, including Outstanding Directing For A Variety Special, a first in Super Bowl Halftime history. In 2022, Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show Starring Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and Kendrick Lamar garnered five Creative Arts Emmy nominations. The critically acclaimed performance won three Emmys, including Outstanding Variety Special (Live), a first-ever for the show.
Lil Duval: The comedian is speaking big facts on why Drake fans are low-key and high-key forever
There’s no switching sides when it comes to the Drake wave. Turns out comedian Lil Duval has stepped up to share his take on people appearing to switch up on the 6 God following ample waves of attention going toward West Coast rap heavyweight Kendrick Lamar.
There’s no switching sides when it comes to the Drake wave. Turns out comedian Lil Duval has stepped up to share his take on people appearing to switch up on the 6 God following ample waves of attention going toward West Coast rap heavyweight Kendrick Lamar.
Lil Duval speaks big facts on Team Drake
Captured by hip-hop personality Akademiks, it’s clear Duval’s Twitter - er - X fingers were working hard this week speaking up on why the 6 God’s legacy will remain untarnished barring anything catastrophic.
‘Lil Duval speaks on Drake being the GOAT’
Akademiks: The hip-hop personality wants Kendrick Lamar fans to properly salute Drake
There’s no denying how much hip-hop personality Akademiks shows love to rap star Drake. So with the Kendrick Lamar buzz - er - buzzing these days, it’s no surprise Ak is stepping up to remind K. Dot fanatics how much Drizzy has influenced and leveled up his career.
There’s no denying how much hip-hop personality Akademiks shows love to rap star Drake. So with the Kendrick Lamar buzz - er - buzzing these days, it’s no surprise Ak is stepping up to remind K. Dot fanatics how much Drizzy has influenced and leveled up his career.
Akademiks tells K. Dot fans to stay humble and salute Drake
Ak went to one of his additional social media pages to drop some knowledge about how much Drake looked out for Lamar at the start of his career. Specifically? Ak pointed out how much Kendrick took off after getting guidance from the 6 God.
‘Kendrick went from selling 5k on section 80 first week to 242k first week on GKMC after Drake put him on’
Kendrick Lamar: The 'Not Like Us' music video might be the most genius visual of all '24
Keeping it 100? No matter what side you were low-key or high-key pulling for, you have to admit the competitiveness of the Drake and Kendrick Lamar feud? My goodness. So all those feelings to the side? How about seeing the hard-hitting ‘Not Like Us’ music video and its premiere on Independence Day, too? Pure genius.
Keeping it 100? No matter what side you were low-key or high-key pulling for, you have to admit the competitiveness of the Drake and Kendrick Lamar feud? My goodness. So all those feelings to the side? How about seeing the hard-hitting ‘Not Like Us’ music video and its premiere on Independence Day, too? Pure genius.
Kendrick Lamar completely delivers with the ‘Not Like Us’ music video
With all types of message-driven moments in the music video ranging from producer Mustard donning a Toronto Blue Jays baseball cap to K. Dot simply demolishing an OVO Sound-representing owl pinata? Holy smokes. Embrace the mind-blowing visual genius of Lamar.
Professor Lexx Beats: Here's a breakdown of Drake lighting back up the Kendrick Lamar battle with 'U My Everything'
Just when you thought things were cooling off for good? Turns out rap heavyweight Drake has some more things to get off his chest and is letting loose with help from pal Sexyy Red and their ‘U My Everything’ anthem. Professor Lexx Beats to the rescue? Say less.
Just when you thought things were cooling off for good? Turns out rap heavyweight Drake has some more things to get off his chest and is letting loose with help from pal Sexyy Red and their ‘U My Everything’ anthem. Professor Lexx Beats to the rescue? Say less.
Professor Lexx breaks down Drake’s ‘U My Everything’ lyrics
Could it all be so simple? Turns out it is with Lexx dishing on Drake continuing to keep the recent Kendrick Lamar feud brewing on the new collaboration.
Music: Here's four of the greatest hip-hop songs about gambling
While gambling is a popular pastime, especially for the rich and famous, which includes music artists, it isn’t featured too often in what would be described as mainstream music. However, one genre that has always featured gambling is hip-hop, with many tracks referencing the activity.
While gambling is a popular pastime, especially for the rich and famous, which includes music artists, it isn’t featured too often in what would be described as mainstream music. However, one genre that has always featured gambling is hip-hop, with many tracks referencing the activity.
1. Kendrick Lamar – Vegas
Vegas is the gambling mecca and also the title of a hit track by Kendrick Lamar. In the production, Lamar brings together elements of love and of gambling in Vegas, with the latter getting underway at the blackjack table. From there, it's on to shooting craps, playing poker and spinning the reels of slot machines. Vegas is an excellent track with an elaborate storyline, but due to his fame, it's unlikely Lamar could enjoy what plays out in real life, but he has options, such as playing some of the best live casino games from home, which are just as good.
2. Akon – I’m So Paid
When you read the title of the Akon track I'm So Paid, it's obvious that there will be plenty of references to money and wealth. And, while some may not think the song is directly about gambling, there are elements that make you think it could be making reference to it. For example, Akon suggests succeeding against all odds, which is what you have to do when gambling in its many guises. There's also a reference to the ball bouncing too, which could relate to the action of a croupier when he drops the ball onto the roulette wheel.
3. Ghostface Killah – Pokerface
Yes, we know what you're thinking. Lady Gaga did do a track called Pokerface, but the one for our list is by hip-hop star Ghostface Killah because when you boil it down, it's a track that advertises poker more than any other song ever has. Dialogue from gambling movie Rounders, poker chips clinking and World Series of Poker commentary all feature in Pokerface. Ghostface Killah also brings the activity into play by speaking about his inability to handle the game and references pushing into the pot.
4. 2 Chainz – Countin
2 Chainz, like many others, speaks about luxury and material things in a lot of the music he’s made over the years. But in Countin, it’s more along the lines of the struggle for said riches and wealth and the determination to secure it. Some could be forgiven for thinking the track’s title relates to counting cards, but it doesn’t. The gambling element comes when 2 Chainz references betting ‘a hundred thou with the Falcons.’ Before he references ‘lost a hundred thousand with the Falcons.’
For such a popular pastime, you would’ve thought that gambling would have made it into more music tracks over the years, especially with how popular sports betting and playing casino games is. But if there is one genre that will always do a good job of bringing it to the forefront, it’s hip-hop. And it’s no surprise that many hip-hop artists have a love for gambling, be it betting on sports or hitting the casinos of Las Vegas.
Interscope Records: Must-have Eminem and Kendrick Lamar limited edition vinyl is here
How much do you really ride for the music? Enough to secure your own limited edition Eminem, Dr. Dre, Kendrick Lamar and Snoop Dogg vinyl through Interscope Records and NTWRK’s new partnership?
How much do you really ride for the music? Enough to secure your own limited edition Eminem, Dr. Dre, Kendrick Lamar and Snoop Dogg vinyl through Interscope Records and NTWRK’s new partnership?
Interscope Records and NTWRK have must-own limited edition vinyl
Properly called the Interscope Reimagined series, the collection has some mind-blowing creations from the biggest names in the music biz. It’s deeper than rap, too - even Billie Eilish has must-own vinyl.
NTWRK and Interscope Records are once again teaming up to extend the celebration of the storied label’s 30th anniversary with a brand new limited edition vinyl set of their GRAMMY nominated series Interscope Reimagined. With this special vinyl series, a group of world class visual artists including Cecily Brown, Julie Curtiss, Damien Hirst, Rashid Johnson, KAWS, Henni Alftan, Richard Prince, Ed Ruscha, Jenna Gribbon, Nina Chanel Abney, Amaoko Boafo, Hilary Pecis, Jennifer Guidi, Stanley Whitney, Kehinde Wiley, Burnt Toast, and many others, have created original works of art inspired by albums and songs from Interscope artists including 2Pac, Billie Eilish, Dr. Dre, Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, 6lack, Nine Inch Nails, Lana Del Rey, N.E.R.D., BLACKPINK, Olivia Rodrigo, Selena Gomez, and Snoop Dogg to name a few.
Fans can get early access in-person to the collection at NTWRK LA (433 N. Fairfax) on Thursday, May 11, 2023, at 11 a.m. PST/2 p.m. EST. The vinyls will be available on the NTWRK app beginning on Friday, May 12, 2023 and will be accompanied by a livestream which kicks off at 12 p.m. PST/3 p.m. EST. Each piece, which features a high quality picture disc vinyl pressing, along with the exclusive artwork is priced at $100.
As with past iterations of the Interscope Reimagined series, 100% of the net profits from the project will be donated to the Iovine and Young Academy, a high school in South Los Angeles.
Ice Spice: Governors Ball officially adds the hottest NY rapper to the line-up
Whether it’s the look or the sound, it’s clear all eyes are on Ice Spice right now. The hip-hop star is coming through in a major way and showing out to the masses on a daily basis but no bigger announcement right now than her securing a spot at the annual Governors Balls festival.
Whether it’s the look or the sound, it’s clear all eyes are on Ice Spice right now. The hip-hop star is coming through in a major way and showing out to the masses on a daily basis but no bigger announcement right now than her securing a spot at the annual Governors Balls festival.
Ice Spice and Governors Ball is happening
It should be a no-brainer for Ice to have her Big Apple presence felt in her hometown. But to get this specific look at a jam-packed line-up three-day event featuring Kendrick Lamar, Lil Baby and Lizzo?
Founders Entertainment is thrilled to announce the addition of Ice Spice to the Governors Ball Music Festival’s 2023 lineup. The Bronx native, dubbed “Rap’s New Princess” by the New York Times, has risen to stardom thanks to an impeccable string of hits including “Boy’s a liar Pt. 2” which features fellow Governors Ball 2023 performer PinkPantheress. Governors Ball 2023 is set to take place in its new home among the trees in historic Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Friday, June 9th through Sunday, June 11th. The twelfth edition of the festival features a lineup of 60+ performing artists including headliners Kendrick Lamar, Lizzo and ODESZA.
After two successful years at Citi Field, like a true New Yorker the Governors Ball Music Festival is on the move again, packing up its famed tattooed Lady Liberty statue and making the short trip to Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Patrons will have plenty of space to spread out on grassy lawns and shady tree groves as they take in performances and enjoy refreshing beverages and culinary delights (including select vendors from Queens Night Market favorites) throughout the day. A return to the long running festival’s traditional park-side setting (after leaving Randall’s Island Park in 2021), the new location combines the easy accessibility festival fans loved about Citi Field (multiple transportation options include the MTA’s 7 train line, the LIRR), with an inviting green space as the perfect setting for a weekend of great music, good times and amazing food. Tickets for Governors Ball 2023 are available for purchase while supplies last via GovBall.com
Kendrick Lamar, Cardi B and Travis Scott land Top 10 spot on selling the least physical copies of their music
Whew - long headline, right? For the record, this line-up and Top 10 list is more quirky than anything. When you consider how much Kendrick Lamar, Post Malone, Cardi B and Travis Scott run the music biz, it’s no question they’re iconic. So knowing their presence and contributions to the culture, geek out knowing they actually made the Top 10 list of artists having sold the least amount of physical copies.
Whew - long headline, right? For the record, this line-up and Top 10 list is more quirky than anything. When you consider how much Kendrick Lamar, Post Malone, Cardi B and Travis Scott run the music biz, it’s no question they’re iconic. So knowing their presence and contributions to the culture, geek out knowing they actually made the Top 10 list of artists having sold the least amount of physical copies.
Digital era, Physical era - what’s the difference
Low-key and high-key? I ditched physical albums nearly 10 years ago and have gone the digital route ever since. So it’s no surprise the majority of people around the globe have followed suit. But looking at data provider Oppizi, the report is pretty wild and crazy - all things considered.
One of the most surprising comebacks of the digital age is the rising number of Vinyl LP sales. According to Luminate, 43.5 million LPs were sold in the U.S. last year.
Despite this, 82.1 million Americans are paid subscribers to on-demand music streaming.
Therefore, the question remains as to whether it is still a good idea to release physical music.
A brand-new study released by Offline Marketing Company, Oppizi reveals the 10 US artists who have sold the least physical copies of their music.
The research analyzes the most recent data from Chart Masters, which takes the top US music artists of all time and calculates the number of physical single sales units sold.*
Kendrick Lamar and Charlie Puth ranked as the top two US artists who have only sold 10,000 physical singles.
In 2011, Kendrick Lamar independently released his debut studio album, Section.80.
Meanwhile, streaming services only saw a significant pace of growth in the mid-2010s, which could have seen the rapper's music appeal more to the digital audience.
Charlie Puth released his debut single ‘Marvin Gaye’ in 2015, which was the year all parts of the streaming music market grew, with revenues exceeding $2 billion for the first time ever.
Cardi B followed in second, selling 20,000 physical singles, she made her music video debut in December 2015, with the song "Cheap Ass Weave".
Amongst the Disney crowd is Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato, who are now two of the most successful female artists of their generation.
Selena Gomez, who began her music career on Disney Channel, including singing the theme song for Wizards of Waverly Place, has sold 80,000 physical singles.
Since then, she has come a long way, after being crowned the most followed celebrity on Instagram- after recently surpassing Kylie Jenner with a whopping 390 million followers.
Whilst Demi Lovato has sold only 50,000 physical singles, she has sold 2.7 million albums and had 23.8 million song downloads in 2021.
Rounding out the top ten are Imagine Dragons, Post Malone, Billie Eilish, Macklemore and Travis Scott.
A spokesperson from Offline Marketing Company, Oppizi, says
“The rise in LP sales is fascinating to witness, as physical copies of music make a comeback. It appears physical goods still hold value for many people, even in the digital age.
“Of all the music formats, vinyl has the most value. Today, Vinyl records could sell for ten times its original price 20 years from now.
“Often, music lovers feel like digital downloads make them lose out on any sort of physical interaction with the music they are listening to. More people want to experience purchasing, which is why going to a record store and buying a vinyl is more appealing today.
“People today are also attracted to buying vinyl records for the album’s art and exclusive copies can be bought and worth a fortune.
“Therefore, for music artists looking for ways to promote their music, pushing physical copies could be a great way to give fans that desired nostalgic purchasing experience.”
Methodology:
*The research analyzes the most recent data from Chart Masters. Taking the top US music artists of all time, the physical single sales units have been calculated by adding them to CSPC total with a ratio 3:10 for 2-tracks and 5:10 for EPs and Maxis.
Source: ChartMasters
It's literally Kendrick Lamar Day all-day on Apple Music Hits
If you needed a little - or a lot - of Kendrick Lamar in your life to get your pre-weekend goals activated look no further than Apple Music Hits. 10 years after the game-changing good kid M.A.A.D city album arrived, the streaming giant is putting major respect on K. Dot’s name.
If you needed a little - or a lot - of Kendrick Lamar in your life to get your pre-weekend goals activated look no further than Apple Music Hits. 10 years after the game-changing good kid M.A.A.D city album arrived, the streaming giant is putting major respect on K. Dot’s name.
It’s a full-fledged Kendrick Lamar takeover
From the morning through the late hours of Friday, Lamar is going to have all the attention placed on his legacy. From throwback anthems to getting some Lamar essentials into your life, it’s all about Kendrick.
Coinciding with the 10-year anniversary of his debut album, good kid M.A.A.D. city, Apple Music is highlighting the full catalog of the legendary rapper with a full day programming takeover on Apple Music Hits featuring an array of radio specials, DJ Mixes, and archival content. Additionally, good kid M.A.A.D city is also arriving on Apple Music in Spatial Audio. Tune in all day only on Apple Music Hits.
Things kick off on The Estelle Show with a Good Kid Special beginning at 8am PT. The first hour will feature voice notes and clips from several producers and collaborators from Kendrick’s album. Producers from the album include: Hit Boy (“Backseat Freestyle”), DJ Dahi (“Money Trees”), Just Blaze (“Compton”), Scoop Deville (“Poetic Justice”), Rahki (“Black Boy Fly”) and Top Dawg Entertainment President & “good kid…”. Hour two will be a mix of Kendrick & Friends, including his LA Hip Hop contemporaries from the “good kid” era curated by LA’s DJ Carisma.
KENDRICK LAMAR DAY SCHEDULE (all times PST)
8am - 10am
The Estelle Show - The Kendrick Lamar "good kid..." Special
Hear exclusive commentary on the making of "good kid..." from producers like Hit Boy (“Backseat Freestyle”), DJ Dahi (“Money Trees”), Just Blaze (“Compton”), Scoop Deville (“Poetic Justice”), and Rahki (“Black Boy Fly”) along with a Kendrick & Friends Mix from LA club & radio veteran DJ Carisma
10am - 11am
Kendrick Lamar - Influences (music only)
The vintage songs and artists that helped create K.Dot's vibe
11am - 12pm
Pure Throwback - Kendrick Lamar Features Mix
NinaSky mix memorable Kendrick features with other artists
12pm - 1pm
Kendrick Lamar Essentials - hosted by LowKey
Kendrick's hits from his Artist Essentials playlist with LowKey
1pm - 2pm
Kendrick Lamar - Next Steps (music only)
Take a deeper listen to the library of a legend
2pm - 3pm
Zane Lowe - The Kendrick Lamar Interview
Zane takes us back to his 2018 conversation with Kendrick after he was awarded the Pulitzer Prize
3pm - 4pm
Pure Throwback - Kendrick Lamar Features Mix (encore)
4pm - 6pm
The Estelle Show - The Kendrick Lamar "good kid..." Special (encore)
Listen LIVE from 8am PT
Of course Kendrick Lamar has the No. 1 album in the country
Top Dawg Entertainment’s Kendrick Lamar really does have one with his Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers studio album. The long-awaited and finally-arrived LP delivered on fans’ expectations with first-week sales proving it.
Top Dawg Entertainment’s Kendrick Lamar really does have one with his Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers studio album. The long-awaited and finally-arrived LP delivered on fans’ expectations with first-week sales proving it.
Kendrick Lamar’s first-week sales
In the digital age where streaming reigns supreme but folks are still determined to go out and support their favorites artists’ releases, K. Dot’s new album locked in nearly 300,000 copies in its first 7 days.
Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, K-Dot’s fifth solo studio offering, topped the Billboard 200 chart this week after earning an impressive 295,500 equivalent album units in its first week of availability, per the publication. The numbers break down by 258,500 SEA units (which equals about 343.02 million on-demand streams), 35,500 pure album sales, and 1,500 TEA units, which come solely from digital album sales. This marks Lamar’s fourth consecutive No. 1 album and the biggest release week of 2022 so far; Bad Bunny’s Un Verano Sin Ti held the title for one week with 274,000 units earned. (Complex)
Eminem confirms Kendrick Lamar's new album is a certified classic
Grammy-winning rapper Eminem knows greatness when he creates it - and hears it from his longtime mentor Dr. Dre. The hip-hop superstar has stepped up to provide major salutes to the Doc and Kendrick Lamar on the newly released Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers studio album.
Grammy-winning rapper Eminem knows greatness when he creates it - and hears it from his longtime mentor Dr. Dre. The hip-hop superstar has stepped up to provide major salutes to the Doc and Kendrick Lamar on the newly released Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers studio album.
Eminem co-signs Kendrick Lamar’s newest studio album
Marshall Mathers went to his Twitter page to hand out his digital flowers. Slim Shady shouted out the Doc and his protégé after hearing the LP himself.
“Yo @DrDre this Kendrick album is f****** ridiculous. I'm speechless.”
Kendrick Lamar’s full-fledged double album
Instead of going the EP route or just putting out a few songs, Lamar went all-out on the LP. The project comes packed as a double feature with nearly 20 songs.
The Big Steppers tour is coming
With the new album finally out, Lamar and his real-life cousin Baby Keem are gearing up for a full-fledged Big Steppers Tour.
Baby Keem's presence is all over Kendrick Lamar's newest album
Of course you’re going to hear and feel what Baby Keem is all about on his cousin’s newest studio album. The West Coast hip-hop artist celebrates Kendrick Lamar’s new Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers LP by revealing what songs he contributed to.
Of course you’re going to hear and feel what Baby Keem is all about on his cousin’s newest studio album. The West Coast hip-hop artist celebrates Kendrick Lamar’s new Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers LP by revealing what songs he contributed to.
Baby Keem’s all over Kendrick Lamar’s newest album
It’s much more than sharing microphone time with K. Dot. Keem shared an Instagram post showing his own production is featured throughout the project.
“PRODUCED A FEW SONGS OVER THE YEARS.
CONGRATULATIONS @kendricklamar”
Kendrick Lamar's 'Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers' cover art is here, now start the countdown
We’re just hours away from Kendrick Lamar putting out his new much-needed Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers studio album. In an effort to get fans going super crazy, K. Dot has dropped the project’s official cover art.
We’re just hours away from Kendrick Lamar putting out his new much-needed Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers studio album. In an effort to get fans going super crazy, K. Dot has dropped the project’s official cover art.
Kendrick Lamar’s new ‘Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers’ cover art
Lamar’s newest studio LP’s artwork shows him completely embracing family goals. While the album doesn’t drop until midnight, speculation is already mounting on the cover’s full-fledged messaging.
“Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers. Shot by @renellaice”
Kendrick Lamar’s ‘The Heart Part 5’ music video
A few days ago, Lamar made minds explode courtesy of his ‘The Heart Part 5’ single. To make things even crazier, he accompanied the song’s rollout with a music video featuring him changing faces to some of the most celebrated and criticized Black celebrities including O.J. Simpson, Will Smith, Jussie Smollett, Kanye West and the late Nipsey Hustle.
Kendrick Lamar has dropped 'The Heart Part 5' and SPOILER: It's must-hear and must-see
Need some new tunes in your life? Understatement. Could you use some new Kendrick Lamar in your life? Of course. So look no further than his unexpected ‘The Heart Part 5’ song to brighten up your life.
Need some new tunes in your life? Understatement. Could you use some new Kendrick Lamar in your life? Of course. So look no further than his unexpected ‘The Heart Part 5’ song to brighten up your life.
Kendrick Lamar drops ‘The Heart Part 5’ to the world
Of course it’s already in the Attack The Culture Non-Stop Grind playlist on the homepage, but for everyone in need of a quick fix versus a detour, kick back and listen to more than five minutes of new K. Dot ahead of his new studio album dropping in the coming days.
Kendrick Lamar's new album officially drops May 13
Save the date, too! Finally, after months and months of waiting, Top Dawg Entertainment’s Kendrick Lamar is gearing up to put out a much-needed studio album called Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers in the coming weeks.
Save the date, too! Finally, after months and months of waiting, Top Dawg Entertainment’s Kendrick Lamar is gearing up to put out a much-needed studio album called Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers in the coming weeks.
Kendrick Lamar’s new album drops next month
K. Dot finally delivered a huge update months after initially revealing his near departure from TDE. He returned to his pGLang website to announce the details.
“The following statement was released today by oklama, through his company pgLang at 11:00am PT in Los Angeles, CA:
Album: ‘Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers’
Release date: 5/13/2022
All factual information for this release will come directly from this source only.”
Kendrick Lamar’s new announcement update
Back in August 2021, Lamar went to his social media pages to alert the world on his new music. Lamar revealed plans to go the solo route after putting out his final TDE release.
“I spend most of my days with fleeting thoughts. Writing. Listening. And collecting old Beach cruisers. The morning rides keep me on a hill of silence.
I go months without a phone.
Love, loss, and grief have disturbed my comfort zone, but the glimmers of God speak through my music and family.
While the world around me evolves, I reflect on what matters the most. The life in which my words will land next.
As I produce my final TDE album, I feel joy to have been a part of such a cultural imprint after 17 years. The Struggles. The Success. And most importantly, the Brotherhood. May the Most High continue to use Top Dawg as a vessel for candid creators. As I continue to pursue my life’s calling.
There’s beauty in completion. And always faith in the unknown.
Thank you for keeping me in your thoughts. I’ve prayed for you all.
See you soon enough.
-oklama”
Baby Keep and Kendrick Lamar’s ‘family ties’
Last year, Lamar teamed up with his real life cousin Baby Keem for their ‘family ties’ anthem. Not only a fire single, the duo made sure to drop a music video for the smash.
Kendrick Lamar protégé Tanna Leone powers up with Def Jam
West Coast rap heavyweight Kendrick Lamar and Dave Free’s pgLang artist Tanna Leone is doing big things with spring just days away. The hip-hop newcomer has leveled up by teaming with iconic record company Def Jam.
West Coast rap heavyweight Kendrick Lamar and Dave Free’s pgLang artist Tanna Leone is doing big things with spring just days away. The hip-hop newcomer has leveled up by teaming with iconic record company Def Jam.
Tanna Leone links with Def Jam
The hip-hop newcomer didn't just sign on the dotted line. Leone has also blessed the rap game with a couple new tunes in the form of ‘With The Villains’ and ‘Lucky.’
Tanna Leone, the new LA-based artist from Kendrick Lamar and Dave Free’s pgLang, has released two debut tracks "With The Villains" and "Lucky" along with an official music video for “With The Villains” via pgLang/Def Jam Recordings.
And it’s more than just some new music. Leone has also delivered the music video for ‘With The Villains.’
The video for his new single “With The Villains” was directed by Neal Farmer and is a film noir which moves from block chase, to VR strip show, to tattoo parlor.
It’s a celebration for Tanna Leone and Def Jam
With the news instantly going viral, both Tanna and Def Jam’s Tunji Balogun have stepped up to speak on the powerhouses coming together through pgLang.
Following Baby Keem as the second artist to partner with pgLang, Tanna Leone is eager to make his mark: "As an artist I want to represent disrupting the status quo, push people to focus on their growth as humans, and to be a voice for the voiceless through my artistry.”Tanna Leone joins Baby Keem on the second installment of his “The Melodic Blue” Tour beginningtonight in Pittsburgh, PA.
“We’re excited to welcome Tanna Leone and pgLang to the Def Jam family as valued partners,” said Tunji Balogun, chairman and CEO, Def Jam Recordings. “I’m lucky to have been able to connect with Kendrick and Dave during the early stages of my career as friends and collaborators, and I’m thrilled to be able to extend that relationship here at Def Jam. Tanna is a dynamic and multi-talented new voice and we’re honored to be a part of his development and success.”
Dave Free can’t wait for the the disruption
Free also stepped up to speak on Def Jam taking in his artist and teased folks about what’s on deck.
“Tanna is a rare opportunity to disrupt. We're excited to partner with my young n*gga,” said Dave Free, Co-founder of pgLang. Co-founded by Dave Free and Kendrick Lamar, pgLang is a multi-lingual company, communicating this generation's creative language through mediums exemplifying the shared experiences that connect us all.
Baby Keem's going on tour, too, this spring
West Coast rapper Baby Keem knows his buzz is super big and following his The Melodic Blue album - and tour - success, he’s only more prepared to hit the road to connect with fans live in concert. The hip-hop superstar has announced the rollout for a 28-date North American spring tour.
West Coast rapper Baby Keem knows his buzz is super big and following his The Melodic Blue album - and tour - success, he’s only more prepared to hit the road to connect with fans live in concert. The hip-hop superstar has announced the rollout for a 28-date North American spring tour.
Baby Keem’s spring tour is gearing up
The Grammy-nominated best new artist has officially announced plans to let the tour roll out at the start of March 2022 and focus on North American popular cities and venues.
The announcement comes after the success of his sold out The Melodic Blue tour, which Earmilk described as a "live-action art piece." 2021 saw Keem release his critically acclaimed album The Melodic Blue, which debuted at #5 on the Billboard 200 chart, earning Keem his first top 40 achievement and an astounding three nominations, including ‘best new artist’ at the 2022 Grammy awards. In a string of announcements since then, Keem has gone on to be added to the Coachella 2022 line-up where he will round-up his spring tour in April.
The official tour dates and spots
You don’t have to wait for the big reveal. Keem’s team has already unveiled what locations and cities - including New York, Detroit and Las Vegas - he’ll focus on with 28 dates in the books.
NORTH AMERICAN SPRING TOUR DATES
Mar 7 Cincinnati, OHBogart's
Mar 8 Detroit, MISaint Andrew's Hall
Mar 10 Pittsburgh, PAStage AE
Mar 11 Columbus, OHNewport Music Hall
Mar 13 New York, NYTerminal 5
Mar 14 Providence, RIFete Music Hall
Mar 15 Baltimore, MDBaltimore Soundstage
Mar 17 Norfolk, VAThe NorVa
Mar 18 Charlotte, NCThe Underground
Mar 20 Atlanta, GATabernacle Atlanta
Mar 22 Orlando, FLThe Beacham
Mar 23 St. Petersburg, FL Jannus Live
Mar 24 Ft. Lauderdale, FL Revolution Live
Mar 26 New Orleans, LABUKU Music + Art Project
Mar 27 Nashville, TNBrooklyn Bowl Nashville
Mar 29 St. Louis, MOThe Pageant
Mar 30 Chicago, ILConcord Music Hall
Apr 1 Milwaukee, WIThe Rave
Apr 2 Minneapolis, MNThe Fillmore Minneapolis
Apr 5 Denver, COCervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom
Apr 6 Salt Lake City, UTThe Depot
Apr 8 Tempe, AZMarquee Theatre
Apr 9 Las Vegas, NVBrooklyn Bowl Las Vegas
Apr 12 Seattle, WAThe Showbox
Apr 13 Portland, ORRoseland Theater
Apr 15 Indio, CACoachella
Apr 18 San Francisco, CA The Warfield
Apr 22 Indio, CACoachella
Baby Keem’s run to remember
Over the past 24 months, Keem has remained on a non-stop grind. From putting out quality music to partnering up with fellow West Coast rap heavyweight Kendrick Lamar at his pgLang, BK’s work flow has yet to slow down.
An artist whose rise to recognition has been built upon distinct lyrical finesse and incredible production, twenty-one-year-old artist Baby Keem is already revered as one of the best in the game, with his 2021 album The Melodic Blue earning him global critical acclaim, having been honored on XXL’s Freshman List, with co-signs from the likes of Drake, Brent Faiyaz, Chloe Bailey, Beyonce, Travis Scott, Ye, and Kendrick Lamar.
The Melodic Blue is Keem’s third project following 2018’s cult record The Sound of Bad Habit and 2019’s Die for My Bitch, which featured the breakout hit, “Orange Soda.” He has appeared on the cover of i-D, XXL, Crack and Numero, starred in the pgLang for Calvin Klein campaign and performed live this summer at festivals including Lyrical Lemonade and Made In America. Notwithstanding, 2021 has seen Keem featured on Ye’s DONDA which afforded him his fourth Grammy nomination at the 2022 awards.
Keem is artist one to partner with pgLang, Kendrick Lamar and Dave Free’s at-service company which launched in March 2020. A visual mission statement titled ‘welcome to pgLang’, starring Baby Keem, can be seen at www.pg-lang.com.
The Mt. Rushmore of 2010's Rap has exactly who you think should be on it
It’s a Throwback Thursday so it’s only right Spotify’s RapCaviar unveil murals of the Mt. Rushmore of 2010s hip-hop. And who makes the cut? How about Young Money’s Drake and Nicki Minaj? Maybe a dab of North Carolina’s J. Cole? Top Dawg Entertainment’s Kendrick Lamar? Double yes. Yup. Of course.
It’s a Throwback Thursday so it’s only right Spotify’s RapCaviar unveil murals of the Mt. Rushmore of 2010s hip-hop. And who makes the cut? How about Young Money’s Drake and Nicki Minaj? Maybe a dab of North Carolina’s J. Cole? Top Dawg Entertainment’s Kendrick Lamar? Double yes. Yup. Of course.
The Mt. Rushmore of 2010’s Rap is here
While you will have to travel to spots like Toronto, New York, Los Angeles and North Carolina to see the murals in-person, fortunately the power of the Internet allow us to showcase this awesomeness at the convenience of your go-to gadget.
Each mural was specially designed by Jeks One, Luke Pollard, Jacob Rochester and Anderson Bluu and was created in the likeness of each legend, hand-painted in locations dear to each artist’s heart. Upon visiting the murals, fans will be prompted to scan a Snapcode that will ask them what ‘their mood is today’ while shuffling through the artists’ collective discographies and landing on an album that represents their mood, which fans can listen to directly on Spotify.
Spotify dishes on the epic murals and meaning to the rap game
Spotify’s executive Carl Chery has already detailed the importance of this epic unveilings.
"When the initial Mt Rushmore of 2010s Rap viral moment happened, we knew it had become so big that it deserved a physical installation in the real world,” says Carl Chery, Spotify’s Creative Director & Head of Urban Music, adding “Nicki, Cole, Kendrick, and Drake came of age at the beginning of the 2010s, setting the tone for hip-hop in the streaming era, and now 12-years later they are each legends in their own right and pillars of the genre. These murals are a celebration of their contributions, and we hope their locations in each artists’ hometown is meaningful to them and their fans."
In case you’re super serious about going to see these in-person, the details are below including each mural’s creator.
Raleigh, North Carolina
Hometown of J. Cole
416 S Dawson Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
Mural by Jeks One
Toronto, Ontario
Hometown of Drake
224 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z6, Toronto Canada
Mural by Luke Pollard
Los Angeles, California
Hometown of Kendrick Lamar
69 Windward Ave, Venice, CA 90291
Mural by Jacob Rochester
New York, New York
Hometown of Nicki Minaj
57 Kenmare St, New York, NY 10012
Mural by Anderson Bluu
The making of the 2010s Mt. Rushmore of Rap
RapCaviar has even blessed folks with a quick look at the creation of the murals. Way too dope to ignore.