How did Kendrick Lamar start rapping?

Kendrick Lamar began rapping at a young age, influenced by the hip-hop culture in Compton, California, where he grew up. He started writing lyrics as a teenager and released his first mixtape, "Youngest Head Nigga in Charge" (2003), at just 16 years old. Lamar's early experiences and the local music scene, particularly the influence of artists like Tupac and Dr. Dre, played a significant role in shaping his style and passion for hip-hop. His dedication and talent eventually led to greater recognition and success in the music industry.