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Who is the Clown in Not Like Us?

Published in Music Video Personalities 2 mins read

The clown featured in Kendrick Lamar's music video for "Not Like Us" is Tommy the Clown.

Tommy the Clown's Appearance in "Not Like Us"

Tommy the Clown, a significant figure in the subculture of "clowning" and "krumping" dance styles, makes a prominent appearance in the "Not Like Us" music video. His inclusion adds a distinctive visual and cultural element to the highly anticipated release. Tommy, whose real name is Thomas Johnson, is renowned for pioneering the "clowning" dance movement in Los Angeles in the early 1990s, which later evolved into the more aggressive "krumping" style. His presence underscores the video's connection to authentic Los Angeles street culture.

The music video, which serves as a significant release in the ongoing rivalry between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, features a variety of notable individuals, solidifying its roots in the Compton and wider Los Angeles community.

Other Notable Figures in the "Not Like Us" Music Video

Beyond Tommy the Clown, the "Not Like Us" music video showcases other prominent figures from various fields, further emphasizing its thematic depth and local relevance. These appearances contribute to the video's strong cultural statement.

Here are some of the key individuals featured:

  • Tommy the Clown: The iconic originator of the "clowning" dance style, bringing his unique performance art to the video.
  • DeMar DeRozan: A Compton-born NBA star, known for his career with teams like the Toronto Raptors, who makes an appearance, connecting the video to local sports prominence.
  • Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith: The CEO of Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE), Kendrick Lamar's record label, whose presence highlights the label's central role in the artist's career and the music's production.
Figure Role/Significance
Tommy the Clown Pioneer of clowning and krumping dance
DeMar DeRozan NBA star, Compton native
Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith CEO of Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE)

These inclusions collectively reinforce the video's deep ties to West Coast culture and its significant figures.