He recently sat down with Dave Chappelle for Interview, and talked a wide range of subjects, inspiration and staying focused. After the release of DAMN. which was just certified double platinum, Kendrick not only solidified himself as the best in the game right (if he hadn't already) but also pushed forward on the path of being the biggest influence on youth and the culture of the industry.
He discusses a trip he took to South Africa that really opened his eyes, "Durban, Cape Town, Johannesburg—and those were definitely the 'I've arrived' shows. Outside of the money, the success, the accolades ... This is a place that we, in urban communities, never dream of. We never dream of Africa. Like, 'Damn, this is the motherland.' You feel it as soon as you touch down. That moment changed my whole perspective on how to convey my art."
For any massively successful artist, the true depth lies within their ability to self-express, honestly. "As I've grown as an artist, I've learned that my mission statement is really self-expression," says Kendrick, "I don't want anybody to classify my music. I want them to say, "This is somebody who's recognizing his true feelings, his true emotions, ideas, thoughts, opinions, and views on the world, all on one record." I want people to recognize that and to take it and apply it to their own lives. You know what I'm saying? The more and more I get out and talk to different people, I realize they appreciate that—me being unapologetic in whatever views and approach I have."
Be sure to take a look at the entire interview here.