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Hip Hop Awards 2023: 6 Music Videos Directed by Dave Free and Kendrick Lamar That Redefined Hip Hop

The dynamic duo earned the “Video Director of the Year” award.

Few collaborations exemplify artistry, like the partnership between “The Little Homies,” Dave Free and Kendrick Lamar.

During the “BET Hip Hop Awards” 2023, the dynamic duo earned the “Video Director of the Year” award for their contributions that redefined hip-hop visual storytelling’s essence. Together, the longtime pals and colleagues go beyond conventional music video production with projects like  “Humble” and “The Heart Part 5.”

In honor of this year’s celebration of fifty years of hip hop marked by unforgettable performances and most deserved wins, we’re revisiting six music videos directed by this year’s winners, Dave Free and Kendrick Lamar.

  • "Humble"

    "HUMBLE." stands as a testament to Kendrick Lamar's and Dave Free's creative brilliance.

  • "Alright"

    The memorable scene of Kendrick rapping atop a traffic light became an enduring symbol of strength.

  • "The Heart Part 5"

    "The Heart Part 5" demonstrated the duo's creative synergy, utilizing deepfake technology to morph Kendrick into controvery-stirken celebrities like Kanye West and Will Smith.

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  • "Element"

    From slow-motion fight scenes to poetic shots of everyday struggles, the video redefines the hip-hop narrative, highlighting the significance of authenticity and self-discovery amidst difficult circumstances.

  • "DNA"

    This high-energy video features intense interrogation scenes and powerful performances from Kendrick and Academy Award-nominated actor Don Cheadle, merging hip hop and Hollywood.

  • "Backseat Freestyle"

    “Backseat Freestyle” is one of Dave and Kendrick’s earlier works. The visual embodies the spirit of youthful enthusiasm and inventive storytelling.

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