Kendrick Lamar’s big time performances have all been spectacles in their own right.
From using vandalized cop cars as soap boxes, to spinning new tracks during major live shows, Kendrick has left fans with a high level of expectation for this year’s Grammy show. It’s safe to say that he delivered on every front. While tying together “Alright” and “The Blacker The Berry” with an untitled(and possibly freestyled)verse, he threw on respect to Africa as the genesis for Hip Hop’s deep roots.
Additionally, many fans didn’t notice until after the Grammy’s had already concluded but Kendrick’s verse that tied the two tracks together spoke on Trayvon Martin and the connection Kendrick feels to the boy slain by Darren Wilson.
The imagery adds another thick layer to the motif, with Kendrick transferring from being chained up in a prison gang, to running free amidst African dancers. It makes for a powerful message, and his decision to overlay “Compton” over the continent of Africa continues his message of unity among Black people across the world. It’s a message not unlike that of leaders Kendrick has name dropped in the past. With this performance, Kendrick comes ever closer to being the musical equivalent of a Marcus Garvey, and it’s a beautiful thing to watch happen.
Kendrick Lamar Shuts Down 2016 Grammy Awards With Powerful Performance
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