By Hardcore Critic
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Until early 2012, Kendrick Lamar’s primary fan base was on the internet. A native of Compton, Kendrick Lamar had been on Game’s radar for some time. Building an incredible buzz in 2011, Game decided to capitalize and feature him on The R.E.D. Album.
Featured on “The City,” the song would be Game’s final single from the album. For most, it would be their first time hearing Kendrick Lamar and they were impressed. At the time, Kendrick Lamar had just been linked to Dr. Dre and was recording his debut album.
With a set platform, Kendrick Lamar delivered his first official single during the early spring of 2012. “The Recipe,” featuring Dr. Dre went on to be another viral hit for Kendrick Lamar, who was emerging as a superstar. Kendrick Lamar would soon be working with Birdman and Mack Maine, appearing on tracks alongside Ace Hood and DJ Khaled.
Buzzing throughout the summer, Kendrick Lamar released “Swimming Pools (Drank),” which solidified his celebrity status. In August 2012, the music video was filmed and is Kendrick Lamar’s official debut, in the eyes of many. Since then, Kendrick Lamar has delivered his “Poetic Justice” single with Drake and his already-classic debut album, good kid, m.A.A.d. city.
In 2012, the competition was stiff all the way. Had Kendrick Lamar not been up against 2 Chainz and Meek Mill, he would have been the clear Rookie of the Year for Hip Hop Vibe. Alternatively, had Kendrick Lamar had more experience under his belt, he would have very well have been Hip Hop Vibe’s Artist of the Year. Despite this, Kendrick Lamar is a phenomenal artist and deserves a mention, if anything.
Watch Kendrick Lamar’s 2012 music videos below:
Watch “The City” by Game ft. Kendrick Lamar below:
Watch Kendrick Lamar perform “The Recipe” live at Coachella 2012 below:
Watch “B-Boyz” by Birdman and Mack Maine ft. Kendrick Lamar, Ace Hood, and DJ Khaled below:
Watch “Push Thru” by Talib Kweli ft. Kendrick Lamar and Curren$y below:
Watch “Swimming Pools (Drank)” by Kendrick Lamar below:
Watch “Fuckin’ Problem” by A$AP Rocky ft. 2 Chainz, Drake, and Kendrick Lamar below:
