The impact of Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” grows, following news that a mural was dedicated to him at a Compton restaurant, Tam’s Burgers. The popular burger joint is in the track’s video and is a staple in the area. The mural depicts Lamar cast upon an all-white background, with the phrase “Not Like Us” written in bold. ABC7 spoke with the muralist, Mike Norice about his inspiration behind the project. Norice wanted to not only honor Lamar but give hope to his community.
“I painted it Monday and the process is very fast. I was here about 6 a.m. every morning from Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday,” Norice told the outlet.”So, I want to show the people in the Watts-Compton community and this area that you can do anything,” Norice said. The artist noted that the mural has become a landmark for Compton’s celebration. “A lot of people were coming because the video is so popular, but they didn’t necessarily have a picture reference to the video. And now this gives that picture reference of, This is where I’m coming from and now, I’m here.”
Kendrick & dRAKE bEEF’S IMPACT ON businesses
Tam’s Compton branch owner, Spiro Vovos, tells TMZ that Lamar has earned himself a “lifetime of free meals” as a thank-you for the exposure. This isn’t the first time that Lamar has been honored by a restaurant. Kendrick Lamar’s “Euphoria” left quite the impression with the Toronto-based Chinese restaurant, New Ho King, so much so that they dedicated a special menu item to him in May.
Later, a TikTok circulated online where the user detailed his experience at the restaurant since Lamar name-dropped the popular eatery. Judging by the video, New Ho King seemed booked and busy, with large crowds in and outside the restaurant. Per the video, the “Kendrick Lamar Special” includes chicken wings, fried rice, beef & broccoli, and shrimp for around $65.