Kendrick Lamar has spent the most of his career with Top Dawg Entertainment, and he is now the label’s defining artist. However, it appears that era is coming to an end, as Lamar has stated that his next album will be his final with TDE.
The rapper published a link to oklama.com this afternoon, which includes a post from August 20. He outlines his recent activities and reflects on his tenure with TDE, stating that he is currently working on his “last TDE record.” “See you soon enough,” he said as he closed his message, hinting at when new music would be released. The following is an excerpt from the article:
“I spend most of my days with fleeting thoughts. Writing. Listening. And collecting old Beach cruisers. The morning rides keep me on a hill of silence.
I go without a phone for months at a time.
My comfort zone has been shattered by love, death, and suffering, but glimmers of God speak through my music and family.
While the world around me changes, I consider what is most important. The next life into which my words will fall.
After 17 years, I’m proud to have been a part of such a cultural impact as I produce my final TDE album. The Battles. The Achievement. And, of course, there’s the Brotherhood. May the Most High continue to employ Top Dawg as a conduit for honest artists. As I continue to follow my heart’s desire.
Completion has a certain allure. And, above all, have trust in the unknown.
Thank you so much for remembering me. I’ve prayed for each of you.
Soon enough, I’ll see you.
-oklama.”
The post also features a grainy, blurry photo of Lamar seemingly in a studio. The image file’s EXIF data indicates it was last modified on July 15, suggesting the photo was taken, or at least last edited, on that date.
