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

Podcast Information:

• Title: Toure Show
• Host/Author: DCP Entertainment
• Episode: Kendrick Lamar - How To MC
• Release Date: January 26, 2025
• Description: Touré engages with successful individuals to uncover the secrets behind their achievements, offering valuable insights for listeners on their own journeys.

Introduction

In the compelling episode titled "Kendrick Lamar - How To MC," host Torre delves deep into the mind and experiences of one of hip hop's most influential figures, Kendrick Lamar. Recorded backstage at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn just hours before a highly anticipated Kendrick performance, this interview explores Lamar's journey to success, his creative process, his encounters with significant figures like President Obama, and his vision for empowering his community.

1. The Making of a Great MC

Obsession and Dedication

Kendrick Lamar attributes his success to an unwavering obsession with hip hop. Torre emphasizes, “He worked and practiced and grinded and wrote and put in the sweat equity to become an unbelievable talent” ([00:51]). Kendrick elaborates on this passion, stating, “I think first you gotta just genuinely have like an obsessive love for music” ([03:29]). This deep-seated love for the craft began at a young age and was fueled by influences from legends like Jay-Z, Nas, Biggie, and Snoop Dogg.

Practice and Perseverance

Kendrick discusses his rigorous practice regimen, highlighting the importance of writing relentlessly, even producing “terrible verses” and “terrible hooks” ([04:19]). He emphasizes the value of constructive criticism from trusted peers, which helps refine his skills. “You just have to be obsessed with what you want to do,” Kendrick asserts ([03:35]).

2. Creative Process and Artistic Balance

Breaking Down the Craft

Kendrick breaks down his creative process into manageable components. He recounts, “Today I want to see how this sound when I do a verse that actually feels like aggression” ([05:07]). This methodical approach allows him to experiment with different emotions and styles, fostering both innovation and consistency.

Maintaining Artistic Integrity

When questioned about balancing meaningful messages with the artfulness of his music, Kendrick explains, “Music plays two ways in my head. It plays as a sport, a contact sport, and it also plays as something that you can connect to” ([09:10]). He strives to merge competitive energy with relatable themes, ensuring his work resonates on multiple levels.

3. Meeting President Obama: A Pivotal Moment

A Historic Encounter

One of the most profound moments in Kendrick's career was meeting President Barack Obama in the Oval Office. He reflects, “From a standpoint where I just go back to the earliest memories of my grandmother, speaking about the idea of a black man being in office, that's what blows me up” ([07:35]). This encounter reinforced his belief in the power of representation and the potential for positive change within the black community.

Shared Reflections

Kendrick recalls Obama's admiration, “he said, wow, how did we both get here?” This shared sentiment underscored the journey from struggle to achievement. He adds, “He understands that it's so much more work to do. This is the idea… we have to keep pushing” ([35:24]). This dialogue with Obama deepened Kendrick's commitment to his role as an artist and community leader.

4. Impacting the Community Through Music

Connecting Beyond Boundaries

Kendrick's music is deeply rooted in his community, yet it transcends geographical and cultural barriers. He discusses how songs like "Good Kid, M.A.A.D City" were initially intended for his immediate surroundings but found universal resonance. “There are white kids that have no idea of the block that I'm talking about, and they can relate to it in some form” ([10:49]).

Addressing Systemic Issues

The conversation touches on systemic challenges faced by the black community, such as racism and lack of opportunities. Kendrick emphasizes, “Installing confidence in them, let them know that I come from where you come from and you can ultimately make a change” ([07:53]). His efforts extend beyond music, as he actively works to create job opportunities and empower youth through community initiatives.

5. Discipline and Personal Growth

The Role of Discipline

Kendrick highlights the critical role discipline plays in his life and artistry. “Discipline shows who you really are… how much discipline you have when the camera's off” ([18:32]). He acknowledges the constant struggle against various vices and the importance of maintaining self-control to harness his true potential.

Balancing Personal and Professional Life

The interview delves into Kendrick's challenges in balancing his demanding career with personal responsibilities. He admits, “Learning how to balance the time between my family and the ultimate chase of spreading this message” ([20:54]). This balance is essential for him to stay grounded while fulfilling his role as a cultural influencer.

6. Addressing Criticisms and Expanding Narratives

Representation of Black Women

Kendrick faces critiques regarding the representation of black women in his music. He responds thoughtfully, acknowledging the complexity of the issue: “I come from where I come from, all I know is black women” ([23:58]). While he defends his work, he also recognizes the need for more inclusive perspectives and expresses willingness to engage in dialogue with women to better address their experiences.

7. Personal Practices and Reflection

Meditation and Mental Health

Kendrick shares his meditation practices, emphasizing the importance of reflection in his hectic schedule. “I have to just sit down and reflect on what's going on for these 30 minutes” ([25:04]). This routine helps him stay centered amidst the demands of fame and creative pressure.

Overcoming Trauma

Growing up in a violent environment, Kendrick discusses the psychological impact it had on him and others. “It completely was chipping at my confidence” ([26:12]). Music became his refuge and a path to resilience, allowing him to transform personal trauma into artistic expression.

8. Community Initiatives and Empowerment

Creating Opportunities

Kendrick is actively involved in community-building efforts to reduce incarceration rates among black men. He explains, “I'm offering these jobs… put the power in their hands” ([28:55]). By providing employment and mentorship, he aims to create a ripple effect of positive change within his community.

Vision for Compton

The transformation of Compton is a recurring theme, with Kendrick noting, “More opportunities. They see that people actually care” ([31:09]). He highlights the contributions of various community leaders and the importance of maintaining confidence and pride in one's roots to drive ongoing progress.

9. Evolution of Hip Hop and Artistic Legacy

Perspective and Growth

Kendrick reflects on how his experiences, including his trip to Africa, have broadened his worldview and influenced his music. “It's a complete mind fuck… you have to immediately be brainwashed by the idea again of you a part of the problem” ([35:25]). This expanded perspective allows him to infuse his work with deeper meaning and greater empathy.

Artistic Influences Beyond Hip Hop

He draws inspiration from a diverse array of figures outside of hip hop, such as Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, and Malcolm X, underscoring the interdisciplinary nature of his creativity. “These people have the same eye, their passion is obsessive” ([41:15]). This blend of influences enriches his music, making it both artistically robust and socially impactful.

Conclusion

Kendrick Lamar's interview on The Toure Show provides an in-depth look into the mind of a modern MC who is not only redefining hip hop but also striving to uplift his community. Through relentless dedication, disciplined practice, and a profound sense of responsibility, Kendrick exemplifies what it means to be a true artist and leader. His insights offer valuable lessons for aspiring musicians and anyone seeking to make a meaningful impact in their own fields.

Notable Quotes:

• “I can sometimes cut the whole world off to write a verse that is perfect to me” ([00:51]).
• “All right, I say that's one of my greatest records because it gave these kids an actual voice” ([02:07]).
• “I have to just sit down and reflect on what's going on for these 30 minutes” ([25:04]).
• “Music's for the world” ([10:29]).
• “Discipline is the ultimate power” ([19:50]).
• “Installing confidence is just installing confidence” ([07:53]).

Follow-Up

Stay tuned to The Toure Show for upcoming episodes featuring other remarkable individuals. Next week, Torre will host Black Thought from The Roots, discussing millennial rappers and the evolution of hip hop.

For more episodes and updates, visit DCP Entertainment's website and follow them on Twitter and Instagram at @toureshow.