Kendrick Lamar did the unthinkable at the 67th Grammy Awards, bagging not one, but five gramophones (Record of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Music Video, Best Rap Song, and Best Rap Performance) from the Recording Academy for his smash hit “Not Like Us.”
Lamar swept the rap category in the awards show, held in his hometown state of California. It would have been a disservice to the audience to not see Lamar take home at least one award. However, it was the unwavering support and solidarity of the Los Angeles community, plus the collective voice of the Recording Academy voting body, that propelled him to win the most awards of the night.
Back in the Philippines, local hip-hop artists were quick to celebrate Lamar’s monumental victory. “He deserves it all!” Waiian, a Makati-based rapper and co-founder of hip-hop label LIAB Studios, told Rolling Stone Philippines. “Nakakabuhay malaman na may hope and good things come for people who keep it real and stick to their guns in this industry of fucking aesthetic and senseless content.”
Pampanga-based rapper kiyo also shared his reaction to the historic win, saying, “Sa isip ko lang, ‘Pa’no na si Drake nyan?’ Cultural shit na din eh. Talagang malakas ang dugo.”
Lamar’s influence on hip-hop transcends borders, reaching even as far as the Philippines. His impact on the genre resonates deeply with rappers from all walks of life, proving that his artistry and authenticity know no limits.
