Grammys 2016: Kendrick Lamar Performs In Chains And Handcuffs

Rapper Kendrick Lamar took the stage dressed in jeans and a blue collared shirt draped in chains and handcuffs starting a medley with “The Blacker The Berry.”

Kendrick Lamar Performs In Chains And Handcuffs

As the chains dropped off and a black light lit up the stage, designs were imprinted on the clothing of the artist and his dancers. Lamar transitioned to another stage with a traditional African setting with a full fire blazing behind the rapper, clearly making the connection between the current debate over mass incarceration and slavery.

The dancers joined together to on one stage to emphasize coming together. Lamar eventually made his way back to being solo with just a spotlight on him and quick camera panning and lighting on his face. The performance ended with the background in the shape of Africa with the word, “Compton” in the center. The artist is nominated for 11 Grammys and has already won 5 before the show started.