Rapper Kendrick Lamar Duckworth, known widely by his first two names, is presently involved in one of the most exciting rap feuds of all time with Canadian rapper Drake. The California native has always been praised for his captivating storytelling, rhythmic flow, versatile transitions and is widely regarded as a generational talent. But Kendrick also knows where to put his money.
Ever since his rapid ascent to fame with the album good kid, m.A.A.D City in 2012, which drew inspiration from gangsta rap, Kendrick Lamar has consistently maintained his status as one of the most influential figures in contemporary hip-hop. His third studio album To Pimp A Butterfly, released in 2015, not only marked the beginning of his streak of four consecutive number-one albums in the United States but also garnered immense critical acclaim, solidifying its place as one of the most revered albums of the 2010s.
He has been acknowledged as a symbol of this American generation by the California State Senate and has made history as the first non-classical or jazz artist to receive the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for Music.
With an impressive collection of 17 Grammy Awards (the third-highest number for a rapper), a Primetime Emmy Award, four American Music Awards, 29 BET Hip Hop Awards (the most ever won by an artist), 11 MTV Video Music Awards, 6 Billboard Music Awards, and a Brit Award, his impact on the music industry is undeniable.
Beyond his remarkable success and influential contributions to music, Kendrick Lamar strategically diversifies his financial ventures, assets, and investments, elaborated upon in the following sections. Here are five of his business investments:
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PGLang
PGLang, an American independent multidisciplinary creative services company, was founded on March 5, 2020, by Kendrick Lamar and Dave Free. Specializing in music and visual media production, PGLang has gained recognition in the industry, winning six Cannes Lions Awards, including the prestigious Special Award for Independent Agency of the Year – Craft in 2023.
Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE)
Kendrick Lamar also holds a minority stake in Top Dawg Entertainment. TDE is an independent record label based in Carson, California, focusing on hip-hop and R&B artists. Founded in 2004 by record producer Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith, TDE has become a prominent player in the music industry, with Kendrick Lamar being one of its inaugural clients.
EngineEars
In addition to his involvement in the music industry, Kendrick Lamar has also shown his support for innovative ventures. Kendrick Lamar, DJ Khaled, and Roddy Ricch recently invested in EngineEars, a music-tech startup based in Los Angeles. Founded by Grammy Award-winning audio engineer Derek “MixedByAli” Ali, EngineEars raised $1 million in Pre-Seed funding. The funding round was led by Slauson & Co., a venture capital firm based in Los Angeles.
Real Estate Portfolio
Apart from his artistic and entrepreneurial pursuits, Kendrick Lamar has demonstrated his financial acumen through strategic investments in real estate. In 2018, he acquired a luxurious mansion worth $2.65 million in Calabasas. This property spans an impressive 5,400 square feet and showcases his refined taste and appreciation for elegance. This acquisition adds to his previous real estate ventures, including a four-bedroom home in Eastvale purchased for $523,500 in 2014 and a remarkable four-bedroom residence in Manhattan Beach acquired for $9.7 million in 2019. These properties strategically dot the picturesque landscapes of California, reflecting Kendrick Lamar’s keen eye for lucrative real estate opportunities.
Light Phone 2
Kendrick Lamar has ventured into the technology industry by collaborating on the development of Light Phone 2. Under his company, PGLang, Lamar recently introduced a limited-edition version of the Light Phone, known as Light Phone 2. On Thursday, November 2, 2023, Lamar’s creative agency released only 250 units of Light Phone 2, which were completely sold out by the following morning, priced at $299. This minimalist phone does not feature a web browser, and its screen resembles that of a paper-like e-reader. Its primary functions include making calls, sending texts, setting alarms, and serving as a hotspot. However, it has additional tools such as a music player, note-taking capabilities, a calculator, directions, and more. The back of the light grey case proudly displays the company’s name, and the phone even includes a language tool that functions like a magic 8-ball. Users are encouraged to ask the phone a question and shake it to receive an answer.