After years of working with Kendrick Lamar, Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith is reacting to the news of the rapper’s forthcoming departure from the TDE label. On Friday (Aug. 20), hours after the emcee made his shocking announcement, the record executive took to social media to share an open letter he penned about his time with one of rap’s GOATs.
“The whole goal when we started this thing was to make music, make money, and make history. We did those things 10 times over and then some,” he started. “TDE and its artists have provided a way to end generational curses that we were all personally born into over the last 17 years in this business.”
“With this being Dot’s last album on TDE, this is more of a VICTORY LAP, a celebration,” he continued. “I know he will be successful in whatever it is he decides to do and will have our FULL support.”
Top Dawg went on to discuss the future of the label without their leading star, noting that the remaining artists and execs “will continue to grow, develop and give artists the platform to expand into whatever way they choose.”
Top Dawg’s announcement comes after Kendrick announced that he’s working on his final project with TDE.
“As I produce my final TDE album, I feel joy to have been a part of such a cultural imprint after 17 years,” he wrote. “The Struggles. The Success. And most importantly, the Brotherhood. May the Most High continue to use Top Dawg as a vessel for candid creators. As I continue to pursue my life’s calling, there’s beauty in completion. And always faith in the unknown. Thank you for keeping me in your thoughts. I’ve prayed for you all. See you soon enough.”
Look below to see Top Dawg’s open letter.