Hot 21 Radio

With his street consciousness and perceptive, memorable lyrics, Kendrick Lamar is one of the freshest L.A. rappers in years.

Lamar was born in Compton, and grew up idolizing Death Row artists like 2Pac and Dr. Dre.

His crew, alternately known as Black Hippy and Top Dawg Entertainment, includes Ab-Soul, Schoolboy Q and Jay Rock.

In 2011, he released his breakout independent album, Section.80.

Lamar's first major single, "The Recipe," featured his mentor Dr. Dre.

Kendrick Lamar

With his street consciousness and perceptive, memorable lyrics, Kendrick Lamar is one of the freshest L.A. rappers in years.