Is it time to start up the Kendrick Lamar hype train again?
One of hip hop’s most beloved, yet reclusive, figures is gearing up to make his return. First, Kendrick himself has teased that his new project is on the way, his final album with long-time label, TDE (Top Dawg Entertainment).
And now, we’re gonna hear some bars from K. Dot on an upcoming project from fellow rapper Baby Keem. Keeping it in the family – quite literally, the two are cousins – Kendrick and Keem’s track is called ‘Family Ties’, out tomorrow (Friday, 27th August).
Teasing the collaboration, Baby Keem posted the below image to socials, referencing Kendrick’s classic good kid, m.A.A.d city artwork.
Just this week, a trailer for the track has arrived, featuring Kendrick (under the moniker ‘Oklama’), and Keem. The trailer also reveals that Normani will be a guest feature too. Giddy up.
Watch the trailer below:
Hip hop fans have been seeing more and more of Baby Keem in recent years, thanks largely to Kendrick’s early co-signing and mentorship of the young artist.
He’s got songwriting credits on his older cousin’s Black Panther: The Album project, and has been working with everyone from Jay Rock to ScHoolboy Q; even Kanye West, who is expected to feature Keem on his long anticipated Donda album.
Baby Keem’s debut studio album, The Melodic Blue, is expected to drop sometime before the end of 2021. As for Kendrick’s next album, there’s no release date on that one but if you missed his statement, visit www.oklama.com to catch up.
“Love, loss, and grief have disturbed my comfort zone, but the glimmers of God speak through my music and family.” he has said. “While the world around me evolves, I reflect on what matters the most. The life in which my words will land next.”
“As I produce my final TDE album, I feel joy to have been a part of such a cultural imprint after 17 years. The Struggles. The Success. And most importantly, the Brotherhood. May the Most High continue to use Top Dawg as a vessel for candid creators.”
“As I continue to pursue my life’s calling. There’s beauty in completion. And always faith in the unknown. Thank you for keeping me in your thoughts. I’ve prayed for you all. See you soon enough.”
