Podcast Summary: "Kendrick Lamar - How To Be An MC" on Toure Show

Episode Title: Kendrick Lamar - How To Be An MC
Host: DCP Entertainment
Release Date: November 24, 2024
Podcast: Toure Show
Website: dcpofficial.com/toureshow

Introduction

In this compelling episode of the Toure Show, host Torre engages in an in-depth conversation with the acclaimed rapper Kendrick Lamar. The discussion delves into Kendrick's journey to becoming one of the greatest MCs of his era, his dedication to hip hop, the impact of his music on communities, and his personal philosophies. Filmed backstage at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn before one of Kendrick's electrifying performances, this interview provides listeners with valuable insights into the mind of a music icon.

Becoming an MC: Obsession and Hard Work

Kendrick Lamar attributes his success to an obsessive love for music and relentless work ethic. From a young age, Kendrick immersed himself in the hip hop culture, constantly writing, practicing, and refining his craft.

Kendrick Lamar [00:52]: "But I'm so passionate about it, I can sometimes cut the whole world off to write a a a a verse that is perfect to me or damn near perfect."

Torre emphasizes that Kendrick's talent wasn't innate but constructed through years of dedication and sweat equity.

Torre [01:02]: "He constructed his talent through years of work and his obsession with hip hop and with getting better as an emcee."

Practice Techniques and Overcoming Challenges

Kendrick discusses his rigorous practice regimen, which involves writing numerous verses and hooks, many of which are initially criticized by his peers. This process builds his resilience and hones his ability to recognize and elevate his work independently.

Kendrick Lamar [04:30]: "Practice being in that studio writing terrible verses, writing terrible hooks. If your homeboys and your friends and people that you trust telling you that's garbage... that's practice."

He highlights the importance of discipline and self-awareness in his creative process.

Kendrick Lamar [05:18]: "You don't have to have someone else listen to it to tell you if it's good or not. You already know that's not good. I can challenge myself to take that to the next level."

Meeting Obama: A Historic and Personal Milestone

One of the most poignant moments in the interview is Kendrick's recounting of his meeting with President Barack Obama in the Oval Office. This encounter was a significant moment for Kendrick, reinforcing his belief in the potential and intelligence of the black community.

Kendrick Lamar [07:50]: "Being in there and talking to him and... seeing the type of intelligence that he has and the influence that he have... sparks the idea of us as a culture, as a people, we can do anything that we want to do."

Kendrick reflects on how this meeting inspired him to continue pushing boundaries and instilled a sense of responsibility to use his platform for positive change.

Kendrick Lamar [08:56]: "When he told me that, it just gave me, you know, confirmation again that it doesn't stop. We have to keep pushing, you know, we can't just celebrate because he's right here."

Music’s Message and Its Universal Reach

Kendrick elaborates on the dual nature of his music: combining competitive hip hop elements with deep, relatable storytelling. This blend allows his music to resonate with a diverse global audience, transcending his immediate community.

Kendrick Lamar [09:14]: "Hip hop plays as a sport... and it also plays as something that you can connect to songwriting."

He explains how his albums, like "Good Kid, M.A.A.D City," were initially intended for his community but expanded in impact as listeners worldwide found personal relevance in his narratives.

Kendrick Lamar [11:00]: "They apply it to themselves... They pull different things from their own personal lives into the music."

Representation of Black Women in His Music

Addressing critiques regarding the absence of black women in his narratives, Kendrick acknowledges the validity of the feedback and expresses a willingness to engage in conversations to better represent them in his work.

Kendrick Lamar [24:59]: "That's a trip... To even answer the question, I would need to know exactly where, you know, the disgruntled part, you know, come from."

He references past works, such as the "Keisha Song" from "Section.80," indicating his awareness and intent to include more diverse perspectives.

Kendrick Lamar [26:05]: "I would have to sit down and talk to a woman... I've made some pretty connecting songs about women and black women in particular."

Personal Practices: Meditation and Self-Reflection

Kendrick emphasizes the importance of meditation and self-reflection in maintaining his mental health and creativity amidst the pressures of fame and his demanding career.

Kendrick Lamar [26:14]: "I need 30 minutes a day of just reflecting on the moment."

He details his routine, which often involves early mornings and studio sessions, ensuring that he dedicates time to introspection regardless of his schedule.

Kendrick Lamar [26:55]: "I gotta be up early. If I go to the studio and be up all night before I lay down, I gotta reflect."

Community Issues and Systemic Challenges

A significant portion of the interview focuses on the systemic issues affecting the black community, particularly the high rates of incarceration among black men. Kendrick advocates for instilling confidence and providing opportunities to prevent young black men from falling into cycles of violence and incarceration.

Kendrick Lamar [29:04]: "Installing that confidence. That's it... it starts with One."

He shares his proactive efforts in creating youth centers and job opportunities, believing that empowering individuals can have a cascading positive effect on the community.

Kendrick Lamar [31:20]: "I think the concept and idea is so far fetched that people can't believe that it can change that way. But it has to start with One."

Influence and Responsibility as an Artist

Kendrick discusses the responsibility that comes with his influence, viewing his music not just as entertainment but as a tool for social change and education. He balances his artistic expression with the desire to impact lives positively, often placing his work above personal distractions.

Kendrick Lamar [15:35]: "I have to give to the world... This is what I have to offer to the world because when I'm gone, I can rest peacefully knowing that I contributed to the evolution of the mind."

He acknowledges the burden of maintaining discipline and balancing his personal life with his commitment to his artistry.

Kendrick Lamar [21:28]: "The idea of being a success celebrity, that's easy for me... learning how to balance that with people that care for me is my struggle."

Transformations and Future Vision

Reflecting on his experiences traveling abroad, particularly his time in Africa, Kendrick shares how these experiences broadened his perspective and influenced his music. He emphasizes the importance of connecting with diverse stories while maintaining the authenticity of his roots.

Kendrick Lamar [34:38]: "I was only thinking about Compton, you know, in our small little corners. But the world is just so much more bigger than that."

He envisions a future where hip hop continues to evolve as a universal language, capable of fostering global connections and addressing universal struggles.

Kendrick Lamar [35:26]: "I found out a way to still make that connection, even if it's not even my story."

Conclusion

The interview culminates with Kendrick Lamar reflecting on the legacy of hip hop and his role within it. He underscores the importance of continuing to innovate and inspire, ensuring that his contributions leave a lasting impact on both the music industry and society at large.

Kendrick Lamar [43:22]: "It's the hardest thing that's known to man for me personally... to control yourself, that is ultimate."

Torre wraps up the conversation by highlighting Kendrick's influence and teasing future episodes featuring other prominent figures in the hip hop community.

Torre [44:18]: "That's next Wednesday on Torre Show Sh."

Notable Quotes

• Kendrick Lamar [00:52]: "But I'm so passionate about it, I can sometimes cut the whole world off to write a a a a verse that is perfect to me or damn near perfect."

• Kendrick Lamar [04:30]: "Practice being in that studio writing terrible verses, writing terrible hooks..."

• Kendrick Lamar [07:50]: "Being in there and talking to him and... sparks the idea of us as a culture, as a people, we can do anything that we want to do."

• Kendrick Lamar [09:14]: "Hip hop plays as a sport... and it also plays as something that you can connect to songwriting."

• Kendrick Lamar [15:35]: "I have to give to the world... This is what I have to offer to the world because when I'm gone, I can rest peacefully knowing that I contributed to the evolution of the mind."

• Kendrick Lamar [29:04]: "Installing that confidence. That's it... it starts with One."

• Kendrick Lamar [26:14]: "I need 30 minutes a day of just reflecting on the moment."

• Kendrick Lamar [34:38]: "I was only thinking about Compton... But the world is just so much more bigger than that."

Final Thoughts

This episode of the Toure Show offers a rare glimpse into Kendrick Lamar's philosophy, dedication, and the driving forces behind his music. From his meticulous practice habits to his unwavering commitment to social change, Kendrick exemplifies what it means to be not just a successful MC but a transformative artist. Listeners gain valuable lessons on discipline, resilience, and the power of art as a catalyst for change, making this episode a must-listen for aspiring artists and enthusiasts alike.

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