2012 has been a good year for the new kid on the block in more ways than one.

With his debut album, Good Kid m.a.a.d City, being critically acclaimed, Kendrick Lamar is definitely on the rise. However, GQ’s nod has recognised him for something quite different – his style.

Inside, Kendrick talks working with Dre and what the future has in-store.

GQ: How important has Dre been to you as far as a personal relationship and mentorship?

Kendrick Lamar: He told me all the mistakes I shouldn’t make in this business, being a new artist. I’m in a position where a lot of dollars will be thrown my way, and it’s up to me to maintain. One of the first things he told me was that anybody “can get a mansion.” He said, “You can get it. It’s nothing to get. You can get it tomorrow. The best thing to do is maintain it – that’s the hardest thing. Keeping it.”

GQ: Who are the artists that you’d love to go toe-to-toe with, lyrically? 

KL: Jay-Z, Eminem, Rakim, Kurupt… 

GQ: Right now, where do you think you stack in that group?

KL: I’m on their toes, for sure. I remember when I was a young buck listening to them, I was thirteen or fourteen going back to the albums and how crazy they were. They just have a little more experience than me. I wouldn’t get in the studio with them and be nervous, I’ll put it to you that way. I wouldn’t be nervous. 

A lot of confidence, for a rookie! We like. No doubt, 2013 will be an amazing year for Kendrick.

Your thoughts?