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Kendrick Lamar Gives Surprise Commencement Address at Compton College: “I’m Proud of Y’All”

The winner of 17 Grammys and a Pulitzer Prize took time out on Friday evening to speak to the 2024 graduates in the city where he was born and raised.

The winner of both a Pulitzer Prize and 17 Grammys, Lamar is a Compton native who has spoken about becoming embroiled in violent gang activity there while also finding an affinity for poetry in the city’s public schools. The rapper’s surprise appearance seemed to shock the graduates when it was announced by Compton College president Dr. Keith Curry 45 minutes into the ceremony. The crowd stood up and applauded, taking photos as Lamar walked to the podium as his hit song, “Bitch, Don’t Kill My Vibe” was played across the Dignity Health Sports Park Tennis Stadium.The rapper continued his praise of the graduates and the city they share as he addressed those gathered at the stadium.

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