XXXTentacion’s Father Praises Kendrick Lamar: “Thank You for Giving My Son a Platform”. Kendrick Lamar, a hip-hop superstar, supported the late musician XXXTentacion. Kendrick Lamar promoted XXXTentacion’s 2017 debut album 17, on social media. This support from a powerful man boosted the burgeoning star. XXXTentacion’s father, Dwayne Onfroy, recently thanked Kendrick Lamar for his early support.
Dwayne Onfroy commended Kendrick Lamar for helping XXXTentacion’s early career in a quick Instagram video on June 25. “My name is Dwayne Onfroy, father of XXXTentacion,” he said. I would want to thank you for providing my son a platform as an undiscovered artist and a shoutout when his record was published.
According to Dwayne Onfroy’s Instagram video, “You stepped up to the plate for him when a lot of people just stood by and stood back [while] Spotify had him under pressure [and] wasn’t even playing his songs.” I’ve always admired your kingship. Always.”
Kendrick Lamar endorsed 17 immediately after its release. He posted a link to the album on social media and encouraged his followers to listen to “raw thoughts.” He had listened to the 11-track record five times and expressed his support. Kendrick Lamar’s endorsement was important for XXXTentacion, who was still trying to break into the music industry.
XXXTentacion’s situation complicated in 2018 when Spotify introduced its Hate Content & Hateful Conduct Policy. These guidelines removed XXXTentacion’s music from the platform’s editorial and algorithmic playlists due to his serious charges, which included aggravated battery of a pregnant woman, domestic battery by strangulation, false imprisonment, and ex-girlfriend witness tampering. Spotify’s action greatly reduced his platform visibility.
However, Kendrick Lamar and his team supported XXXTentacion again. They threatened Spotify CEO Daniel Ek and head of artist relations Troy Carter to remove Kendrick’s music if they didn’t change their mind. Top Dawg Entertainment CEO Anthony Tiffith told Billboard, “I reached out to Troy over there, we had a conversation, and I expressed how I felt about it, about censorship, how you can’t do artists that way. I oppose censorship of artists, especially in our culture.”
Tiffith complained, “How come they didn’t pick out others from other genres or cultures? So many artists have various things going on; they could have picked anyone. I think they’re always picking on hip-hop culture.”
Despite his issues, Kendrick Lamar helped XXXTentacion stay on major music platforms. Kendrick Lamar’s rare advocacy shows his influence and dedication to hip-hop artists.
XXX’s brief career was lauded and controversial. His music of depression, alienation, and inner torment resonated with a wide audience. After his 2018 death, his music continues to inspire fans and artists.
Kendrick Lamar’s support and solidarity can make a big difference in hip-hop’s complicated environment. Dwayne Onfroy’s statement reminds us that such assistance is lasting and valued. Kendrick Lamar’s support and defense of XXXTentacion show the value of supporting fellow artists in tough times.
