Kendrick Lamar, an acclaimed American rapper and songwriter, is known not only for his profound lyrics and innovative musical style, but also for his intriguing aliases. Here is the list of his different names, including Cornrow Kenny, K. Dot and Kung Fu Kenny.
Also Read: Kendrick Lamar isn’t just a rapper
K. Dot
Kendrick Lamar, known as K.Dot in his early days, released a series of mixtapes that played a crucial role in shaping his career. One of his standout projects is Y.H.N.I.C. (Hub City Threat: Minor of the Year), which he dropped in 2003 as his debut. Then came Training Day in 2005, where you could really see his style evolving. In 2007, he teamed up with Jay Rock for No Sleep ‘Til NYC, highlighting their collaboration and camaraderie. C4, released in 2009, was a heartfelt tribute to Lil Wayne’s Tha Carter III, showcasing Kendrick’s lyrical skills. Finally, there’s Overly Dedicated from 2010, which was a game-changer for him, helping to cement his reputation in the music scene.
Kung Fu Kenny
Kendrick Lamar introduced his alter ego, Kung Fu Kenny, in his critically acclaimed album DAMN, (2017). This persona came to life during his performances and was visually represented in the music video for “DNA,” where he teamed up with actor Don Cheadle, who owned a Chinese food restaurant and studied martial arts in Rush Hour 2 (2001).
Despite starring in the music video for ‘DNA.’, Cheadle failed to make the connection until Kendrick debuted a short karate film (Check Below), The Damn Legend of Kung Fu Kenny, at his Coachella headline set in 2017.
The Story of Kung Fu Kenny Film
In the short film, Kendrick Lamar, also known as Kung Fu Kenny, portrays a promising martial artist on a quest to master his skills. He ultimately discovers “the glow” in an unexpected way—through a woman’s vagina. This moment signifies that Lamar has reached his full potential as an artist and is at the pinnacle of his career.
The film concludes with the bold statement, “Kung Fu Kenny Found the Mothafuckin’ Glow Hoe,” highlighting his belief that he is among the top hip-hop acts today.
Kendrick Lamar: Popular Nicknames
While all of the below names are still popular amongst his wide range of fans, but above two are the most famous stage names of Kendrick Lamar revered by the fans.
- Kendrick Lamar: This is his real name, and it’s the one most people recognize. He began using it professionally in 2009.
- K. Dot: Before he became widely known as Kendrick Lamar, he went by K. Dot from 2003 to 2009, releasing several mixtapes under this stage name.
- Kung Fu Kenny: Introduced in his 2017 album DAMN., this playful alter ego was inspired by Don Cheadle’s character, Kenny, from Rush Hour 2.
- K. Dizzle: A fun twist on K. Dot, this nickname is often used informally among friends and fans, reflecting a more relaxed side of his personality.
- Kendrick Duckworth: A nod to his full name, this moniker emphasizes his connection to his roots and family background.
- The Compton Kid: This nickname highlights Kendrick’s origins from Compton, California, connecting him to the cultural influences that shape his music.
- The Poet: A title that celebrates his lyrical skills and storytelling abilities, underscoring his role as a modern poet in hip-hop.
- The Voice of a Generation: Often used by fans and critics alike, this title emphasizes Kendrick’s significant impact on contemporary music and social issues.
- Kunta Kinte: Inspired by the character from Alex Haley’s Roots, this name symbolizes Kendrick’s connection to African heritage and identity. He has referenced this in various performances, including the Kunta Groove Sessions.
- Mister Morale: This title reflects his introspective nature and focus on uplifting themes, especially in his album Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers (2022).
- The Big Steppa: Tied to his album Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers, this nickname showcases his confidence and assertiveness in the rap game.
- King Kendrick: A title that acknowledges his status and influence within the hip-hop community, celebrating his achievements and contributions to the genre.
- Mr. Morale: Similar to the previous title, this one also highlights his uplifting themes and introspective influence, particularly in his recent work.
- Black Panther: This nickname symbolizes his connection to African American culture and his impact on hip-hop, especially following his contributions to the Black Panther soundtrack.
- The New Generation’s Tupac: This moniker connects Kendrick to the legendary Tupac Shakur, emphasizing his lyrical depth and cultural significance.
- Cornrow Kenny: This name refers to Kendrick’s distinctive hairstyle during the promotion of good kid, m.A.A.d city, symbolizing his connection to his roots and cultural identity.
- K King Kunta: Inspired by the song “King Kunta” from To Pimp a Butterfly, this name highlights themes of empowerment and resistance against oppression.
- Jimi Kendrix: A tribute to the legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix, this alias reflects Kendrick’s musical creativity and influence, drawing parallels between their artistic expressions.
- Mr. Duckworth: This nickname connects back to Kendrick’s last name and serves as a personal reflection on his life experiences and family background.
- Man-Man: A childhood nickname from Kendrick’s parents, it reflects his maturity as a young child and appears in his lyrics.
- The Boogeyman: This moniker signifies his reputation in the rap game as a formidable and influential figure.
- The GOAT: An acronym for “Greatest of All Time,” fans and critics alike often use this title to describe Kendrick’s profound impact on hip-hop.
- 5 Foot Giant: This nickname underscores his significant influence in the music industry despite his physical height, emphasizing his larger-than-life presence.
- The Sandman: This title suggests that he brings dreams to life through his music or metaphorically “puts people to sleep” with his lyrical prowess.
- K Dizzle: A casual variation of K.Dot, this nickname is used among friends and fans, highlighting a more laid-back aspect of his persona.
- King Kendrick: This title celebrates his success and influence in the world of hip-hop.
- Hip Hop King: Kendrick is regarded as a hip-hop legend.
- Mr. Morale: Reflecting his uplifting influence, this nickname encapsulates the themes in his music.
- Black Panther: This title acknowledges his African American heritage and impact on hip-hop culture.
- The New Generation’s Tupac: This moniker connects Kendrick to the iconic rapper Tupac Shakur.
- Kunta: This nickname emerged during his performances and was notably referenced in the Kunta Groove Sessions, connecting Kendrick to themes of identity and heritage.
- Mr. 1-5: A self-proclaimed title that appears in his lyrics, particularly in the song “ELEMENT.” from DAMN., showcasing his confidence and standing in the hip-hop community.
