Kendrick Lamar Becomes the First Rapper to Win a Pulitzer Prize
‘DAMN.’ just made history.
Kendrick Lamar has just become the first-ever rapper to win a Pulitzer Prize. The TDE superstar’s accolade comes courtesy of his 2017 studio album DAMN., which picked up the 2018 Pulitzer for music; the LP now stands as the first non-jazz or classical project to earn the award. In an official statement, the Pulitzer Prize Board described the release as a “virtuosic song collection unified by its vernacular authenticity and rhythmic dynamism that offers affecting vignettes capturing the complexity of modern African-American life.”
Released in April of last year, DAMN. contains 14 tracks, including hits such as “DNA.” and “HUMBLE.” Rihanna, U2 and Zacari contributed to the effort as featured guests, while high-profile, ultra-talented beatsmiths like Mike WiLL Made-It, DJ Dahi, The Alchemist, Cardo, Sounwave, 9th Wonder and others provided the production.
You can read through the entire list of 2018 Pulitzer Prize winners at the organization’s official website. Over the weekend, Kendrick Lamar also made headlines for a surprise appearance at Coachella.
For more unique, high-quality projects from Calfornia’s rap scene, check out the latest from Oakland’s ALLBLACK.
