By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
For years, the Los Angeles hip hop scene has struggled, as Game and Snoop Dogg have been the lone representatives in the public eye. However, 2011 saw several new Los Angeles-area rappers rise to prominence. Among the rising names were Kendrick Lamar. Signed to local label, Top Dawg, Kendrick Lamar gained the respect of Snoop Dogg and began working with Game and Dr. Dre.
Kendrick Lamar’s Section.80 street album gained national recognition in 2011. While his street album was doing well, Kendrick Lamar began focusing on his official debut album. In 2012, Kendrick Lamar intends to release a proper debut album. On this debut album, Kendrick Lamar will be working with many legendary artists and producers.
Already working with Dr. Dre, Kendrick Lamar may also have tracks with Just Blaze and Pete Rock. Speaking with XXL, Kendrick Lamar revealed he and Just Blaze have worked on several songs together. Calling his music city-based and classic, Kendrick Lamar said his debut album will be history-making. It was the Just Blaze beats, paired with the Jay-Z rhymes, which inspired Kendrick Lamar to begin rapping.
The Los Angeles rapper also spoke on working with Pete Rock. Kendrick Lamar said he is looking forward to working with Pete Rock and was honored when the legendary producer reached out to him to collaborate. Kendrick Lamar said he has to get back with Pete Rock so they can begin working together. Aside from the work with Pete Rock, Kendrick Lamar also has some music produced by Pharrell. When asked about a release date, Kendrick Lamar said he will not announce one until things are complete.
