Kendrick Lamar's Record Label: Which Company Represents the Hip-Hop Icon?
Kendrick Lamar is currently signed to Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) and Aftermath Entertainment/Interscope Records, operating under the Universal Music Group umbrella. He's been with TDE since 2005, which marked the beginning of his professional music career.
Top Dawg Entertainment, founded by Anthony "Top Dawg" Tiffith, has been Kendrick's primary label home throughout his rise to stardom. In 2012, TDE partnered with Aftermath Entertainment and Interscope Records to expand Kendrick's reach, leading to the release of his major-label debut album "good kid, m.A.A.d city."
This unique arrangement gives Kendrick the benefit of both worlds: the intimate, artist-focused approach of TDE combined with the massive distribution and marketing power of Interscope/Aftermath. The partnership has proven incredibly successful, with Kendrick releasing multiple critically acclaimed albums including "To Pimp a Butterfly," "DAMN.," and "Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers" under this label structure.
In 2022, Kendrick launched his own creative company called pgLang, which operates as a multi-disciplinary media company. However, this doesn't affect his existing record label arrangements - he remains signed to TDE/Aftermath/Interscope for his music releases.
To break down his label situation clearly:
Primary Label: Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) Major Label Partners: Aftermath Entertainment & Interscope Records Parent Company: Universal Music Group Additional Company: pgLang (his own creative company)
This label structure has helped Kendrick maintain creative control while accessing major label resources, contributing significantly to his commercial success and artistic freedom.