Businesses Owned By Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar is widely celebrated for his lyrical genius and cultural impact, but beyond the music, the Compton native has also built an impressive portfolio as a businessman. Known for being private and intentional with his moves, Kendrick’s business ventures reflect the same depth and vision found in his music. From creative collectives to tech investments, here’s a look at the businesses owned or co-founded by Kendrick Lamar.
1. pgLang
At the forefront of Kendrick’s entrepreneurial pursuits is pgLang, a multidisciplinary creative company he co-founded in 2020 with longtime collaborator and former TDE president Dave Free. Not just a record label, pgLang is described as a “service company” that operates across music, film, television, art, and books.
Since its inception, pgLang has signed artists like Baby Keem (Kendrick’s cousin) and Tanna Leone, and has also partnered with global brands including Calvin Klein for a widely praised ad campaign. The company reflects Kendrick’s desire to create “stories that speak different languages,” blending creativity and business with a unique philosophical edge.
2. Music Publishing and Ownership
While Kendrick spent much of his career under Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE), he reportedly retains rights to much of his publishing and has been strategic in protecting his intellectual property. His exit from TDE in 2022 signaled a new era of autonomy, with pgLang taking the reins of his future releases. This control gives him ownership leverage that many artists lack, making his music catalog an essential part of his business empire.
3. Real Estate Investments
Though Kendrick has kept his real estate dealings largely under wraps, he has reportedly invested in multiple properties in Southern California, including homes in the Los Angeles and Manhattan Beach areas. His quiet but lucrative foray into real estate suggests long-term thinking when it comes to wealth-building.
4. Brand Partnerships and Creative Collaborations
Kendrick has never been one to align with brands for a quick check. Instead, he chooses collaborations that fit his message. From starring in a Nike campaign tied to social justice themes to working with Reebok on limited-edition sneakers that paid homage to unity and community, every move has been purpose-driven.
While these aren’t standalone businesses, Kendrick’s strategic approach to brand deals demonstrates his influence in the marketing world and ability to build equity through partnerships.
5. Film and Multimedia Projects
Under the pgLang umbrella, Kendrick has teased an expansion into film and TV production. In 2022, it was announced that he and Dave Free were partnering with South Park creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker to develop a live-action comedy film for Paramount Pictures. The project, still in development, marks Kendrick’s first major step into scripted entertainment — a move that could open up new streams of revenue and influence in Hollywood.
6. Investments and Equity Stakes
Though Kendrick’s portfolio is more private than some of his peers, it’s believed he has made tech and media investments, possibly through pgLang. Given Dave Free’s Silicon Valley connections and their overall creative direction, it’s likely that Kendrick has a hand in several emerging ventures that align with his cultural vision.
A Visionary Beyond the Mic
Kendrick Lamar may not flaunt his business moves on social media, but his calculated, creative-first approach to entrepreneurship has carved out a unique lane in the entertainment industry. With pgLang leading the charge and his growing involvement in film, real estate, and publishing, Kendrick’s business empire is a quiet storm — focused, visionary, and built to last.
