Everything You Need To Know About Dave Free: His Relationship with Kendrick Lamar and Why He Was Referenced in Drake's 'Family Matters' Diss Track
In the heart of Inglewood, California, amidst the vibrant beats of burgeoning hip-hop culture, a creative luminary was born.
David Isaac Friley, better known by his professional moniker Dave Free, emerged from humble beginnings to become a driving force in the realms of filmmaking and record executive leadership.
His journey is a testament to the transformative power of friendship, the relentless pursuit of artistic excellence, and the unwavering commitment to craft.
From his formative years alongside childhood friend Kendrick Lamar to his groundbreaking collaborations and entrepreneurial ventures, Free's story is one of innovation, resilience, and a relentless dedication to pushing the boundaries of creativity.
Join us as we delve into the captivating narrative of Dave Free, a visionary whose impact resonates far beyond the confines of the entertainment industry.
Early Life
David Isaac Friley, professionally known as Dave Free, was born on November 13, 1986, in Inglewood, California.He grew up in Inglewood, raised by parents hailing from the North and South Sides of Chicago. Free is the youngest among his two siblings.
Notably, he developed a close friendship with rapper Kendrick Lamar during their high school years in Inglewood.
After completing his education, Free embarked on his career journey, initially working as a computer technician while simultaneously supporting Lamar in the early stages of his rap career.
Career
Free's career trajectory took a significant turn when he leveraged his job as a computer technician to introduce Lamar's music to Anthony "Top Dawg" Tiffith, the founder and CEO of Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE).This introduction culminated in Lamar signing a recording contract with TDE in 2005.
Shortly after Lamar's signing, Free joined TDE as an in-house producer and became a pivotal member of the hip hop production team Digi+Phonics, alongside Sounwave, Willie B, and Tae Beast.
Together, they contributed significantly to projects for the hip hop supergroup Black Hippy, comprising Lamar, Jay Rock, Schoolboy Q, and Ab-Soul.
Free's role expanded within TDE, evolving from a producer to the label's social media director. In 2007, he was appointed as TDE's co-president, alongside Terrence "Punch" Henderson.
During his tenure, Free not only managed Lamar's career but also co-directed several of Lamar's studio albums and accompanying music videos under the collective pseudonym The Little Homies.
Their collaborative filmmaking efforts garnered critical acclaim, leading to accolades such as a Grammy Award for Best Music Video and multiple MTV Video Music Awards.
In 2019, Free departed from TDE, opting to work independently. He embarked on new ventures, including assisting rapper Baby Keem and delving deeper into the film industry.
Alongside Lamar, Free co-founded the creative company PGLang in 2020, aiming to explore multi-dimensional creative avenues.
Through PGLang, Free has directed music videos and advertising campaigns for prominent brands such as Calvin Klein, Converse, and Cash App.
Moreover, Free and Lamar announced their collaboration with South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone on an upcoming comedy film for Paramount Pictures in 2022.
Personal Life
Free's personal life remains relatively private, with his focus primarily on his professional endeavors.However, his longstanding friendship and creative partnership with Kendrick Lamar have been a cornerstone of both his personal and professional life.
The Mention in Drake's Kendrick Diss Track 'Family Matters'
In the midst of the Drake–Kendrick Lamar feud, Free found himself inadvertently drawn into the controversy.- Related Stories: Drake Fires Back at Kendrick Lamar with "Family Matters" Diss Track
Drake's diss track "Family Matters" suggested that Free had an affair with Kendrick Lamar's girlfriend, Whitney Alford, and potentially fathered one of Lamar's children.
I heard that one of them little kids might be Dave Freeeeeeeeeeeeees/ Don't make it dave freeze/ Cause if your GM is your BM secret BD.”
- Drake On 'Family Matters'
Listen: Drake – Family Matters
This unexpected mention underscored the intensity of the feud between Drake and Lamar and briefly thrust Free into the spotlight for reasons unrelated to his professional accomplishments.
Despite the brief media frenzy surrounding the mention, Free remained focused on his creative endeavors and continued to forge ahead with his career aspirations.
Relationship with Kendrick Lamar
Free's relationship with Kendrick Lamar transcends mere friendship; it is a creative partnership that has significantly shaped both their careers.
From their high school days in Inglewood to their collaborative efforts at TDE and beyond, Free has played a pivotal role in supporting and managing Lamar's rise to prominence in the music industry.
Together, they have produced groundbreaking music, directed award-winning music videos, and embarked on entrepreneurial ventures, exemplifying the power of their enduring bond and shared creative vision.
Dave Free's journey from Inglewood to the upper echelons of the music and film industries exemplifies resilience, creativity, and the power of unwavering friendship.
As he continues to push boundaries and explore new avenues of artistic expression, Free's legacy as a visionary filmmaker and record executive is sure to endure for years to come.