There really must be something in the water, as these past few days have seen the birthdays of three west coast rap legends. Ice Cube turned 51 on the 15th, 2Pac would have been 49 on the 16th, and today finds Kendrick Lamar sliding gracefully into 33. Coincidental to be sure, but still interesting to note how June has given us so many prominent hip-hop artists, to the point where astrology heads are likely formulating theories as we speak. In any case, it's Kendrick Lamar's birthday today, and we'd like to take a moment to wish the Compton rapper all the best.
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Though it's been a while since we've heard any new music from Kendrick, fans have been holding out hope that the birthday boy would be dropping off his fifth album by the end of the year. Given everything that has transpired in the world these past few months, many have been looking to the Pulitzer prize-winning writer for guidance, to use his considerable platform and influence to further societal and cultural changes. Things have gotten so dire that some have even mistaken his silence for apathy, disregarding the fact that he's been out protesting against systemic racism on a street level.
Seeing as a birthday is supposed to be a time for celebration, consider taking a moment to show Kendrick Lamar some love in the comment section below. The man has given us countless gems and classic records throughout his career, and even during these difficult days, projects like To Pimp A Butterfly provide comfort and inspiration. Not many artists can move the masses like K. Dot, the good kid in a ma(a)d city. Happy thirty-third birthday, Kendrick!