Rapper Kendrick Lamar, who has kept a low profile since his feud with Drake ended, made a surprise appearance at Compton College’s 2024 commencement ceremony on Friday. The rapper celebrated his hometown and offered words of wisdom to the new graduates as they embarked on their future endeavors.
He arrived on stage to a censored version of “Bitch, Don’t Kill My Vibe,” greeting fans with smiles, handshakes, and hugs. The rapper also took a moment to capture the joyous atmosphere on his own phone.
“I wanted to come out here just to tell y’all how much I appreciate y’all. I’m proud of the city of Compton, I’m proud of Compton College, most importantly I’m proud of the graduates out here,” he told the crowd.
Lamar noted that life primarily is full of hardships and personal growth. He however acknowledged that Compton is a source of incredible talent and creativity.
Expressing pride in his hometown, he said the city is endowed with a unique spirit and belief in its future, according to Billboard.
“I know what it takes. You had a lot of hardship, not only in your house, in your communities, but most importantly, in yourself, and that’s the toughest thing to overcome. We still growing day by day, brick by brick, making sure we develop, not only in the physical form but in the spiritual as well,” he added.
“Seeing y’all you out here, it is not only a representation of the world, but it’s a representation of me. When I walk out in these cities in these countries, I can be proud and say, ‘This is where I’m from.’ I still believe in Compton, Compton always been a future for me. I think we breed some of the most incredible individuals: Creatives, intellectuals, talent. We had it since day one, that’s why I always screamed this city. I traveled the world, there’s no place like this one right here. No place,” the rapper told the cheering crowd.
Wearing glasses, a purple ball cap, and a black suit with a white t-shirt, Lamar told the graduates that there is a need to change the narrative about their generation. He refuted critics who doubt Gen Z, adding that they possess the heart and courage to be independent thinkers. He charged graduates to see their degrees as valuable accomplishments as any from other institutions.
He encouraged them to apply their knowledge and resources, acknowledging the hardships they would face. The rapper reminded the graduates that God supports them through both challenges and victories and urged them to allow themselves time to grow and appreciate their journey.
