male gaze

Male Gaze: Kendrick Lamar’s Soulful Puppy Eyes

Photo: Rune Hellestad/Corbis

Yesterday at the BET Awards, the Compton-raised rapper swept the stage. He not only took home three awards (tying with Drake) — including Best New Artist and Best Male Hip-Hop Artist for good kid, m.A.A.d city — but he also performed with Erykah Badu and Miguel. While Lamar’s gained a strong following for his heartfelt lyrics mixed with strong beats, he’s also evolved into a fashion icon. The rapper who formerly went by K. Dot has performed in Christopher Kane’s graphic “Creature” sweatsuit, zebra-print hoodies, Obey caps, and other statement streetwear pieces. Before you get distracted by all those prints and bling, listen to one of his tracks and let those soulful, warm eyes pierce right through you.