Kendrick Lamar, one of the most influential figures in modern hip-hop, has lived a life full of surprises. From his humble beginnings in Compton to becoming a global icon, there’s more to the man than what you see on stage. Here are 10 Kendrick Lamar facts that might blow your mind!
1. Kendrick Got Turned Into a Video Game
Did you ever think Kendrick would become a part of a video game? Well, he has! Ironically, after one of his diss tracks went viral, a link was tweeted out by one of Fortnite’s creators. The link took you to a game where the goal was to kill as many OVO owls as possible. Of course, the game had a trollish feature—the high score was stuck at 69, poking fun at Drake.
2. Witnessed Murders Since Age 5
Kendrick’s life wasn’t all music and fame. Growing up in Compton, he witnessed murders from a very young age, which shaped much of his music and perspective on life. But the craziest near-death experience comes from his dad almost being shot during a robbery attempt by Top Dawg, the founder of his label, who was trying to rob a KFC. The wild twist? Kendrick’s dad managed to charm Top Dawg, stopping the robbery and even offering him some free food!
3. Fans Clowned Him for Buying His Sister a Toyota Camry
In 2017, Kendrick made headlines for buying his sister a Toyota Camry as a graduation gift. While some fans thought it was a humble gesture, many couldn’t resist mocking the choice, expecting something more extravagant. Kendrick responded humorously, explaining that it was a practical gift that taught his sister the value of things—plus, it’s a way to appreciate the journey, not just the flashy rewards. After all, his first car was a mom’s van!
4. Kendrick’s Love for Cereal
You’d be surprised to know Kendrick’s obsession with cereal—especially Fruity Pebbles. He’s such a fan that he made a song called Cartoons and Cereal. But his love for cereal goes even deeper—he’s claimed to be a cereal “scientist,” categorizing cereals into “fun” and “casual” types. So, next time you see him on a cereal box, just know that it’s well-earned!
5. A Dish Named After Him
Kendrick’s music did more than just go viral—it got him free food for life! After a lyric from his diss track Euphoria Dro went viral, a restaurant in Drake’s hometown turned his reference into a special dish: fried rice with a special dipping sauce, dubbed “The Kendrick Meal.” This didn’t just boost sales; the restaurant was so grateful they gave Kendrick free food for life!
6. Kendrick’s New Nickname: Big Protein
Fans have noticed Kendrick’s intense workout regimen. From prison workouts to showing off his skills in the boxing ring, Kendrick’s fitness game is strong. He even trains with legendary boxing coaches! With his commitment to fitness and his love for protein, fans started calling him “Big Protein” after hearing him rap about consuming 150 grams of protein daily in his songs.
7. Kendrick’s Secret Sports Talents
Kendrick is no stranger to professional sports. He’s made appearances at baseball games, even throwing a near-perfect first pitch at a Los Angeles Dodgers game. Kendrick also has some football skills—he once showed off his receiving abilities and quarterback potential. But his greatest sports connection? Kendrick is related to NBA champion Nick Young, and they even hung out together in their younger years!
8. Kendrick’s Legendary Collaboration with Kobe Bryant
Kendrick’s admiration for Kobe Bryant ran deep. He was not only present for Kobe’s last game but also wore his jersey in several music videos. The two legends even formed a friendship, with Kendrick performing at Kobe’s retirement party. Kobe once praised Kendrick, saying that Kendrick had the same hunger and drive on stage as he did on the court.
9. Kendrick Has Some Crazy World Records
Kendrick has set numerous world records in the music industry. From winning nine Best Male Hip-Hop Artist awards to breaking Apple Music streaming records, his achievements are impressive. He also became the first rapper to win a Pulitzer Prize, an honor usually reserved for writers. His album sales have broken records, with DAMN. being the first rap album to win a Pulitzer. Kendrick has also set records for the most revenue from a tour, surpassing even Drake.
10. Kendrick Saved Lives with His Music
One of the most powerful things Kendrick has done is save lives through his music. His album To Pimp a Butterfly, which dealt with heavy topics like depression, inspired fans going through tough times. One fan, Logan, who struggled with depression, was brought on stage by Kendrick during a concert, and that moment changed his life forever. Logan went from feeling hopeless to overcoming his struggles, crediting Kendrick’s music for saving him.
Kendrick Lamar’s life is a testament to resilience, influence, and the power of music. From quirky habits to monumental achievements, there’s no denying that he continues to break boundaries, inspire others, and shape culture in ways that most artists can only dream of.
