For his 33rd birthday, The Source takes a look back at an exclusive Uncovered interview with Kendrick Lamar. Recorded shortly after King Kendrick shook the world with good kid, m.A.A.d city, the interview focuses on his biggest musical influences, his favorite albums, and more.

During the look into his life, Kendrick Lamar revealed that some of his favorite albums included Reasonable Doubt by JAY-Z, It’s Dark and Hell is Hot by DMX, The Chronic by Dr. Dre and Tupac’s Makaveli–The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory. Lamar would also highlight some of his biggest influences which included the likes of The Isley Brothers and Erykah Badu.

“The first song I ever remember hearing is Dr. Dre’s ‘Let Me Ride,’” King Kendrick said. “The first time I heard my vocals playback through the speakers I was sold. Getting in the booth allows me to express myself, without lashing out at someone or being depressed, or even being happy. I get in the booth an express all my feelings.”

Since then King Kendrick has gone on to not only represent Hip-Hop masterfully on a global scale but also become a powerful figure in all of pop culture.

You can view the full uncovered video below.