Fullfilling Prophecy: George Clinton on Kendrick Lamar circa 2015
Take a look back at our 2015 conversation with George Clinton, during which, in a virtual utterance of prophecy, he named Kendrick Lamar the next torchbearer of Funk. Now, Lamar commands the global music scene with “Not Like Us” and is set to headline the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show.
George Clinton’s Prophecy on Kendrick Lamar Fulfilled
In 2015, during an exclusive interview at SXSW, funk legend George Clinton sat down with me and made a bold declaration: Kendrick Lamar was the next torchbearer of the Funk. Nearly a decade later, Clinton’s words have proven prophetic. Lamar has not only dominated the music charts but has also cemented his influence in both Hip Hop and global pop culture. With his viral single “Not Like Us” igniting dancers and walkers worldwide, he is now set to headline the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show—arguably the biggest stage in music.
Clinton’s Endorsement: “Kendrick Lamar is the Real Deal”
At the time of the SXSW interview, Lamar had just secured five GRAMMY wins, including Rap Album of the Year for To Pimp a Butterfly, an album that featured Clinton on the opening track, “Wesley’s Theory.” The collaboration symbolized a generational bridge between Funk and Hip Hop, two genres deeply rooted in Black music history.
“Kendrick Lamar is the real deal; he’s special,” Clinton stated emphatically. “He came in with the right conversation. I told him if he’s doing music about the subject matter he was talking to me about, which he did, I knew it would be big.”
You can hear the full exclusive conversation below!!!
Clinton, who has worked with industry giants like Dr. Dre and Ice Cube, recognized Lamar’s artistic vision early on. He compared his rise to other pioneers, noting that Lamar’s commitment to authenticity and storytelling set him apart from his peers.
From To Pimp a Butterfly to Super Bowl LVIII
George Clinton giving his endorsement of Lamar was more than just words—it was a passing of the Funk torch. Since their conversation, Lamar has reshaped the sound and direction of Hip Hop. His ability to blend social consciousness with mainstream appeal has earned him accolades beyond just music, ranging from winning a Pulitzer Prize for his “Damn.” project in 2017 to cultural impact awards.
“DAMN., by Kendrick Lamar…a virtuosic song collection unified by its vernacular authenticity and rhythmic dynamism that offers affecting vignettes capturing the complexity of modern African-American life ~ Pulitzer.org
His single, “Not Like Us,” is a testament to his ability to command both the industry and the cultural zeitgeist. The track’s infectious beat and unapologetic lyrics have made it a global anthem, proving once again why Lamar remains one of the most dynamic artists of his generation. Of course, we can’t forget the new global shout…”Mustard!” from the song “tv off” on his new GNX album!!!
As he prepares to take the stage at Super Bowl LVIII, Lamar stands as a testament to the prophecy Clinton made nearly a decade ago. His journey from a Compton storyteller to a global icon underscores the cyclical nature of music history—where the past fuels the future, and the Funk lives on.
The Future of Funk and Hip Hop’s Evolution: A Humorous Prophecy
Beyond Lamar’s individual success, Clinton’s insight into Hip Hop’s future remains relevant. He spoke candidly about recognizing emerging talent and embracing generational shifts. “Anyone that pisses you off, you can use that as a parameter that is probably the next ish,” he said, highlighting the need for veterans to stay open to evolution.
As Funkadelic continues to push forward with new projects and Lamar reaches even greater heights, their collaboration serves as a reminder of music’s power to transcend time. George Clinton’s words were not just an observation; they were a blueprint for the ongoing legacy of Funk in Hip Hop.
Lamar’s upcoming Super Bowl performance will be a historic moment that cements his place in the lineage of greats Clinton foresaw. And as the world watches, Funk will undoubtedly be in the building. Honestly…this is some of the coolest *ish to watch…EVER!
Tweet