Kendrick Lamar surprises Compton College graduates with commencement address

Amidst a lull in the ongoing feud with Drake, Kendrick Lamar made a surprise appearance at Compton College's 2024 commencement ceremony, delivering an uplifting speech to the graduating class. The Compton native expressed his pride in the students and their achievements, highlighting the challenges they've overcome both personally and within their community.

Lamar acknowledged the hardships faced by the graduates, emphasising the importance of inner strength and perseverance. He encouraged them to be proud of their roots and to use their education to make a positive impact.

"Seeing y'all out here is not only a representation of the world, but it's a representation of me," the 36-year-old rapper declared. "When I walk out in these cities, in these countries, I can be proud and say, 'This is where I'm from.'"

Lamar also addressed the criticism often directed at Generation Z, urging the graduates to embrace their individuality and independent thinking. He emphasised the importance of applying their knowledge and skills, reminding them that they have the support of God and their community.

While the rapper's appearance marks a positive shift from the recent tensions with Drake, the feud seems far from over. Drake's recent deletion of his diss track "The Heart Part 6" may signal a truce, but the underlying animosity between the two artists remains palpable.