Kendrick Lamar, the renowned rapper, made a surprise appearance at Compton College’s 2024 Commencement. The commencement took place on June 7, 2024. This was his first public appearance since his rap feud with Drake.
In his speech, Lamar expressed his pride in the city of Compton, Compton College, and most importantly, the graduates. He acknowledged the hardships they had overcome, not only in their homes and communities but also within themselves. He emphasized the importance of growth, both physically and spiritually.
Lamar stated,
“Seeing you out here, it is not only a representation of the world, but it’s a representation of me. When I walk out in these cities in these countries, I can be proud and say, ‘This is where I’m from.’ I still believe in Compton, Compton always been a future for me. I think we bring some of the most incredible individuals: Creatives, intellectuals, talent. We had since day one, that’s why I always scream this city. I traveled the world, there’s no place like this one right here. No place”.
He also encouraged the graduates to change the narratives, stating that they have what it takes to be successful and that they possess something even bigger – the heart and the courage to be independent thinkers. He concluded by saying that their degree from Compton College is just as significant as any other degree.
Following the commencement, Lamar announced a concert titled “The Pop Out — Ken & Friends” which is set to take place on June 19 at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California.
Lamar revealed the concert with an image of a license plate detailing the show on his social accounts. PgLang and Free Lunch are presenting the event. Presale tickets for the concert were available starting Thursday at 10 a.m. PT via the Cash App Card, with general on-sale beginning Friday at Ticketmaster.com.
Anticipation for the show has been building through the roof. The No Jumper Twitter account tweeted that more than 100,000 fans lined up eagerly to get a ticket for the show. Of course, it is an expected stunning reaction since Kendrick is having a remarkable musical career right now. His diss track “Not Like Us” on Drake is leading the music charts and shattering many records. Fans would love to enjoy the hit number during the live performance. But there is a sweet-and-sour feeling to all this.
The 17,500-seater Forum means many enthusiasts will be shut out from experiencing the event live. Co-presented by pgLang and Free Lunch Gallery, the concert intends to show that it is more a cultural affair than a purely music concert. The show will start at 4 pm and is expected to feature high-energy lyrics and performances that will be remembered for a long time.
