Mixed feelings.
Part of me feels it’s way overdue and Kendrick represents a lot of what’s been unacceptable for so long. I think it took his willingness to be understated and vulnerable to get people to recognize the artistry that’s been there for a long time right alongside the bravado. I’m happy for him individually and hope it prompts more people to take a look.
Another part wishes the Pulitzers, Grammys, and politicians would just stay away. You’ve ignored or maligned the genre for so long, it’s not yours. Don’t come and try to attach yourself to the only names you know in the hope they’ll lend you some relevance and credence in an area you wanted nothing to do with for decades.
I know that second part is just bitter, and maybe this award signals a real change, but right now it feels like a self-serving invite to the country club gala and I’m a little skeptical.
@Aethelwine – Kendrick is Tupac + 20 years, so your son might want to check some of that out too, both to see how it will age, and to maybe find some things he’ll like