After delivering what was the unanimous best hip-hop album of 2011, Compton, CA’s Kendrick Lamar will take the next step in his career by appearing on stage Friday at Coachella. Kendrick firmly cemented himself in the eyes of hip hop fans as one of the leaders of the game over the past few years, but this is a recommendation for any who don’t tend to steer towards the genre to pencil his set into your schedules. He continues to gain only the utmost respect from his peers as well as legends in hip-hop with a combination of unmatched lyrical finesse and a consciousness that’s currently lacking in most other new artists. His live show is filled with passion and skill – no unnecessary hype man. The future’s brighter for the young man than any lenses could shade, don’t sleep on this set (and don’t be surprised if some surprise guests grace the stage).

Kendrick Lamar – Rigamortus
Kendrick Lamar & Nosaj Thing – Cloud 10
Kendrick Lamar – Hol’ Up