This Day in History: , Kendrick Lamar Becomes the First Rapper to Win the Pulitzer Prize.
April 16, 2018.
Lamar was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Music for his extraordinary 2017 album, 'DAMN.'.
It was the first time the prestigious award had been granted to a genre outside of classical music or jazz.
According to the Pulitzer Prize administrator, the decision to recognize Lamar's work was unanimous.
['DAMN' is] a virtuosic song collection unified by its vernacular authenticity and rhythmic dynamism that offers affecting vignettes capturing the complexity of modern African-American life, Pulitzer Prize Awarding Committee.
Lamar grew up during the 1990s in Compton, CA, surrounded by the influence of artists like Tupac Shakur and Dr. Dre.
His previous album efforts became known for their social commentary.
A fellow nominee called Lamar “one of the greatest living American composers, for sure.”
