Top Dawg Entertainment, the label that introduced you to musical acts like Kendrick Lamar, SZA, Doechii, Schoolboy Q, Ab-Soul, and Jay Rock, invited the community to Nickerson Gardens for their 11th Annual Christmas Concert, Toy Drive + Community Giveback. Despite some initial internet critique, the show was ultimately a great success, drawing in a diverse crowd and delivering a memorable experience.
With the donation of a new boxed toy, supporters and fans that “say that [they] hate LA when [they] don’t travel past the 10” could see TDE’s brightest stars, including rising star Doechii and new signee Ray Vaughn, two hours worth of new local talent such as AshBash the Coldest, E.K.E., Lefty Gunplay, Tru Carr and BossxMeiko, each bringing their unique sound and energy to the stage. Attendees were treated to special performances by GloRilla, RJmrLA, Problem, and a quick set from the man of the year, the G.O.A.T, and the one to bring Compton back onto everyone’s screen: Kendrick Lamar.
“You should be grateful. The show is free.” Some fans retorted to the apparent people here for a free show, and some social media content complained after Lamar exited the stage after performing “Be Humble” and “Squabble Up” from his new album GNX.
This event is not your typical concert nor is it designed to cater to the masses. It’s a celebration for the kids and families in Compton, as well as the community of Watts. The unique focus of giving back to the community is what sets it apart. Any complaints or negative comments are unwelcome, as this is a time for celebration and unity.
There wasn’t much to critique anyway. The event had a kid’s view section that needed some sorting initially, but everything managed itself for the most part. Ask the adult drinking in the kid’s section; the kids kicked him out. The only real miss hap occurred because the artists’ entourages wouldn’t leave the stage, and the kids section started booing them and chanting, “Get the f*ck off the stage!” and that itself is crazy. Don’t get booed by a bunch of 12-16-year-olds for holding back the show.
Nickerson Gardens is one of the largest public housing developments in Los Angeles County. There will be no tolerance for disrespect. Just have fun and respect the community.
Within the pale yellow buildings of Nickerson Gardens, a lot is happening. The RAMS have built a 60-yard turf football field; Vanessa Bryant, the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation; and the Lakers have joined forces to revamp multiple sports spaces, including the basketball courts. The Dodgers are set to break ground on a new baseball field in January 2025. All these developments, made possible with the support of Top Dawg Entertainment, are a testament to the positive change that can be brought about when a community comes together.
The celebration continued on Thursday night. Friday was a toy drive, community resource fair, and job fair, with the Compton 69th annual Christmas parade following Saturday.
The 11th Annual Christmas Concert, Toy Drive + Community Giveback, was a moment for the people who love TDE’s artistry to do more than listen to the music. It was a time for them to give back to the community that raised so many of their artists and to support new local and upcoming artists.
Congratulations to Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith, CEO of TDE, on receiving the key to the City of Watts, a symbolic honor that recognizes his significant contributions to the community. TDE is putting Compton on the global stage in a significant way, and it is inspiring everyone.
Photos & Words by Asha Moné
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