Kendrick Lamar Praises Barack Obama In New Interview: “He Made You Feel Like An Actual Friend”

Kendrick Lamar has praised Barack Obama in a new interview, saying that “[he made] you feel like an actual friend” and that “the world owes him”.

Reflecting on Obama’s eight years as US president, Kendrick spoke about being grateful that Obama allowed so many hip-hop artists into the White House, and remarked that it may never happen again. “I think the world, not just hip-hop owes him,” said Kendrick.

“We all have to give him his credit due for even allowing us into the building. We would probably never get inside that house ever again. Think about it like that. Rick Ross, Cole, Nicki Minaj, he really went for us to come experience it.”

“This is something our grandparents always wanted to see, never thought in a million years, but [we can] pass it down to our generation to say, ‘Alright, I’m in here and I’m finna use my power to let ya’ll see how this thing works and I’mma drop some knowledge on y’all that a man can’t drop on everybody else ’cause y’all have the most influence.’"

President Obama has long spoken about being a fan of Kendrick's music. (Who isn't?) Following an initial meeting between the pair in January, the duo have met at the White House numerous times, with Lamar even playing at the birthday party of Obama’s daughter, Malia, back in July.

As reported by XXL, Kendrick later went on to speak about Obama’s best characteristics, saying: “You look at him as such a high figure in the world, but for him to embrace you and have a connection with you further than just being the President and make you feel like an actual friend.”

“That’s probably the best moment and one of his best characteristics," Kendrick said. "I meet a lot of people in high places and sometimes they get so detached from the world and from the people, they don’t even know how to interact with you. Basically watching him interact with my mother, my little niece, myself as a human, I think that’s the greatest thing.”

Listen to your favourite tracks no matter where you are with the MTV TRAX music app. No ads, no limits, no monkey business. Download it now for FREE at mtvtrax.com.