Kendrick Lamar performs “Poetic Justice” on David Letterman [VIDEO]

Kendrick Lamar has been the favorite newcomer in the game, over the past year. Longtime fans know that Kendrick isn’t actually new. In actuality, Kendrick has been putting music out since 2005. Since 2009, he’s been dealing with heavyweights. However, a recent co-sign from Game led to Snoop Dogg co-signing him. As a result, Dr. Dre signed him. With good kid, m.A.A.d. city, the rest has been history. Now, he’s performing “Poetic Justice” on “The Late Show with David Letterman.”

In many ways, Kendrick Lamar’s current success mirrors Drake’s, three years ago. However, there are also stark differences. First of all, Kendrick is clearly the leader of his crew. While Jay Rock was the first rapper from TDE to make national noise, Kendrick is the face of it now. Meanwhile, Drake was clearly the Robin to Lil Wayne’s Batman. Where the two are alike is that Wayne always intended for Drake to become the face of the movement, which he is in the process of doing if he keeps this up.

Kendrick Lamar is being credited for bringing the Los Angeles rap scene back to the forefront of the hip hop world. However, there was a movement going on long before this. The movement has been called the “New West.” Kendrick has become the face of this movement. With his official debut album hailed as a classic, Kendrick teamed with Drake. Together, along with J. Cole, they are considered to be the leaders of the new school. While Kendrick and Cole have an album planned, Kendrick and Drake have a hit.

Kendrick took his hit to David Letterman, performing “Poetic Justice.” The song samples Janet Jackson.