Childhood and Education Journey of Kendrick Lamar in Timeline

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Kendrick Lamar

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Kendrick Lamar. A timeline of key moments.

Kendrick Lamar Duckworth is a highly acclaimed American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer, widely considered one of the greatest rappers of all time. His work, deeply rooted in West Coast hip-hop, is characterized by conscious and introspective lyrics, often featuring political criticism and social commentary focused on African-American culture. A significant achievement in his career was winning the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Music, a historic moment as he was the first non-classical or jazz musician to receive this honor.

1984: Family Relocation to Compton

In 1984, Kendrick Lamar's parents relocated from South Side, Chicago, to Compton, California, due to his father's affiliation with the Gangster Disciples.

June 17, 1987: Kendrick Lamar's Birth

On June 17, 1987, Kendrick Lamar Duckworth was born. He is an American rapper, singer, songwriter and record producer.

Others born on this day/year

1992: Experience of Los Angeles Riots

In 1992, Kendrick Lamar was introduced to police brutality after experiencing the first day of the Los Angeles riots.

2001: Training Day film release

In 2001, the movie Training Day was released, which served as the inspiration for Kendrick Lamar's second mixtape, Training Day.

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2005: High School Graduation

In 2005, Kendrick Lamar graduated from high school as a straight-A student.

2008: Release of Tha Carter III

In 2008, Lil Wayne's album Tha Carter III was released, which inspired Kendrick Lamar's 2009 mixtape, C4.

October 2012: Discussion of Drug Use

In an October 2012 interview, Kendrick Lamar stated that he once tried marijuana laced with PCP and has not used any drugs since.

November 2012: Donation to American Red Cross

In November 2012, Kendrick Lamar donated to the American Red Cross to support victims of Hurricane Sandy.

2012: Commended Frank Ocean

In 2012, Kendrick Lamar publicly commended Frank Ocean for coming out.

December 2013: Donation to Centennial High School

In December 2013, Kendrick Lamar donated $50,000 to his alma mater, Centennial High School, to support its music department.

2014: Concert tour benefitting Habitat for Humanity

In 2014, Kendrick Lamar embarked on a small concert tour and donated all of the revenue to Habitat for Humanity and his hometown.

April 2015: Engagement to Whitney Alford

In April 2015, Kendrick Lamar announced his engagement to his high school sweetheart, Whitney Alford.

July 2017: Purchase of wheelchair-accessible van for fan

In July 2017, Kendrick Lamar purchased a wheelchair-accessible van for a quadriplegic fan.

July 26, 2019: Birth of First Child

On July 26, 2019, Kendrick Lamar and Whitney Alford welcomed their first child, a daughter.

June 2020: Peace Walk Participation

In June 2020, Kendrick Lamar joined a peace walk to protest against the murder of George Floyd and the killing of Breonna Taylor.

2022: Birth of Second Child

In 2022, Kendrick Lamar and Whitney Alford used the cover art for Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers to announce the birth of their second child, a son.

June 7, 2024: Commencement Speaker at Compton College

On June 7, 2024, Kendrick Lamar served as Compton College's surprise commencement speaker.

June 2024: $200,000 donation to charities and community initiatives

In June 2024, Kendrick Lamar spearheaded a $200,000 donation to 20 charities and community initiatives based in Los Angeles.

2025: Temple University Course

In the fall 2025 semester, a Temple University course on Lamar's life, cultural influences, and legacy began.