Kendrick Lamar’s words had a profound impact on EJAE at the 2026 Grammy Awards, leaving the KPop Demon Hunters singer both stunned and inspired. Winning Best Song Written for Visual Media for “Golden” was already a milestone, but hearing Kendrick Lamar’s words in that moment added a layer of recognition and respect that she hadn’t anticipated. For EJAE, it was more than a compliment; it was a bridge between hip hop and K‑pop, showing how music can connect cultures and generations.
For the 34-year-old Korean-American singer-songwriter, the Grammy night became a defining moment of pride, identity, and artistic validation. She reflected on how Kendrick Lamar’s words made the celebration feel personal, turning a public achievement into an intimate memory she’ll never forget. The recognition also highlighted her role in bringing Korean lyrics and storytelling into mainstream visual media, proving that representation matters.
In a candid interview with iHeartRadio’s JoJo Wright, EJAE recalled how meeting the GNX rapper added an unexpected twist to her night. While the Grammy itself honored her hard work, it was Kendrick Lamar’s words that made her stop and truly appreciate the ripple effect of her music, especially as her song “Golden” resonated with audiences far beyond her expectations.
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Kendrick Lamar’s words at the Grammys with EJAE
EJAE remembers the Grammy night most for the authentic connection she felt with Kendrick Lamar. “Kendrick Lamar, that part was insane,” she said. Introducing herself more fully, she recalled, “I was like, ‘Oh, I’m [from] KPop Demon Hunters, EJAE, you know, the singing voice of Rumi.” She admitted she wasn’t sure how the moment would land. Instead, Kendrick Lamar’s words caught her completely off guard. “He goes, ‘Yeah, my kids love you!’ I was like, ‘What?’ I never thought I’d ever hear that out of Kendrick Lamar’s mouth.”
The surprise didn’t stop there. “I’m like, ‘Wait, they sing the songs?’ He’s like, ‘Yeah, they sing ‘Golden’ all the time! And I’m like, ‘No, cuz I sing your songs!’ He’s so nice!” That genuine exchange left her both stunned and honored, reinforcing the power of mutual respect across musical genres, especially between hip hop and K-pop.
The exchange demonstrated how rap and hip hop influence artists worldwide and how Kendrick Lamar’s words can validate creative work beyond borders. For EJAE, it was proof that even iconic artists notice emerging voices, particularly when bridging K‑pop and global hip hop culture.
How ‘Golden’ connected cultures and fans
Winning a Grammy for “Golden” already marked a milestone in EJAE’s career, but hearing Kendrick Lamar’s words made her realize the cultural significance of her work. The song connects audiences through storytelling and music, and the unexpected acknowledgment from a hip hop legend highlighted the universal reach of her artistry.
Her interaction with Kendrick Lamar underscored how music transcends language and geography, showing that Kendrick Lamar’s words can inspire not just her but countless fans who follow her journey.
Representation, identity, and pride
Beyond personal success, EJAE’s win was a moment of representation. “At that moment, the first thing I thought was as a Korean-American woman, I felt very very proud,” she said. Partnering with Korean-Canadian director Maggie Kang, EJAE emphasized that Kendrick Lamar’s words highlighted the importance of authenticity and representation in mainstream music.
This Grammy moment reinforced the value of diversity in hip hop and pop culture, reminding audiences that Kendrick Lamar’s words can amplify voices that might otherwise go unheard.
A Grammy moment to remember
Looking back, EJAE calls the night “a blur,” but the sincerity of Kendrick Lamar’s words remains vivid. Laughing, she recalled, “‘No, cuz I sing your songs! He’s so nice!’” That humility and surprise encapsulate her experience, showing how powerful a few genuine words can be.
Her story demonstrates that recognition isn’t just about awards, but about connection. The enduring memory of Kendrick Lamar’s words will continue to inspire EJAE and fans alike, marking a historic moment where K‑pop and hip hop intersected beautifully.
