The Story Behind Kendrick Lamar's Cover-Up Tattoo: Hustle Like You Broke to Timeless Art

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A Throwback to 2019: When Kendrick Lamar Covered Up a Legendary Tattoo

In the world of celebrity news and fan lore, few things are as personal and symbolic as a tattoo. For an artist like Kendrick Lamar, whose every move is scrutinized for deeper meaning, a change in his body art is a moment of cultural significance. While many remember the iconic “Hustle Like You Broke 💰” tattoo on his right forearm, a significant event in 2019 marked the end of that chapter. It was then that the Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper met with acclaimed Brazilian tattoo artist Davi Escobar to perform an intricate, 16-hour cover-up, transforming a piece of his past into a new work of art.

This is a deep dive into the story behind that change, exploring the meaning of the original ink, the master artist who covered it, and what the transformation tells us about Kendrick's evolving journey.

The Philosophy of "Hustle Like You Broke"

Before we get to the cover-up, it’s important to understand the original tattoo. The phrase “Hustle Like You Broke” with a money bag symbol was a long-standing piece of Kendrick’s personal brand. It was more than just a tattoo; it was a mantra that reflected the core of his work ethic.

This sentiment was a nod to the mentality instilled in him by his team at Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE), particularly the label's founder, Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith. It spoke to the idea that no matter how successful you become, you should always maintain the drive and hunger of a person who is still striving for success. In the flashy world of hip-hop, where artists often flaunt their wealth, Kendrick’s modest and grounded approach was a refreshing counter-narrative. The tattoo was a physical reminder of his roots and his unwavering commitment to his craft.

The Artist Behind the Transformation: Davi Escobar

The artist Kendrick entrusted with this significant change was no ordinary tattooist. Davi Escobar, a highly respected Brazilian artist known for his detailed and unique blackwork style, has a reputation that extends far beyond Brazil. Based out of Florianópolis, his work often features abstract, tribal, and ornamental designs that create a powerful visual impact. His art is a meticulous blend of traditional and modern tattooing techniques.

The meeting between these two creative forces was a testament to the global nature of art and the respect artists have for one another. The session, which took place over two intense days in a Los Angeles studio, was a marathon. According to Escobar, it took a total of 16 hours to complete the new design, a testament to the complexity of the cover-up process and the intricate details of his blackwork. The fact that Kendrick sat for such a long period speaks volumes about his commitment to the new piece and his trust in Escobar's vision.

The Meaning of the Cover-Up: A New Chapter

The decision to cover the “Hustle Like You Broke” tattoo has been a subject of speculation among fans. While some simply saw it as an artistic update, many believe it holds a deeper, more personal meaning.

 * Evolving Mindset: For a man who had long embodied the “hustle” mentality, the cover-up could symbolize a shift in his life and philosophy. After achieving mainstream success, a Pulitzer Prize, and becoming a voice for a generation, perhaps the message of "hustling" was no longer his primary focus. He had moved beyond a mindset of struggle and was now in a place of influence and artistry. The new tribal design, with its spiritual and ancestral undertones, could reflect a deeper focus on his heritage, his spiritual journey, and a more introspective path.

 * Artistic Expression: The original tattoo was simple script. The new piece by Davi Escobar is a complex, almost sculptural work of art. This transformation reflects Kendrick's own evolution as an artist. Just as his music has moved from straightforward narratives to complex, multi-layered albums like DAMN. and Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, his body art also evolved to a more sophisticated and abstract form of expression.

 * Reclaiming His Narrative: By choosing to cover the tattoo, Kendrick was taking control of his public image once again. He wasn't just getting new ink; he was consciously erasing a symbol of his past and replacing it with something new, signaling a personal and artistic rebirth. The new tattoo is a quiet, powerful statement that he is no longer defined by his hustle but by his artistry and his soul.

A Timeless Moment in Celebrity Tattoos

The meeting between Kendrick Lamar and Davi Escobar in 2019 is more than just a celebrity getting a tattoo; it's a perfect example of two artists at the top of their game collaborating to create a lasting piece. The story of the “Hustle Like You Broke” cover-up tattoo is a fascinating case study in how personal symbols can change with time. It reminds us that tattoos are not just permanent marks on the skin, but a living diary of an individual's journey, reflecting their growth, their philosophy, and their ever-changing art. As Kendrick continues to evolve as one of the most important artists of our time, his body art will no doubt continue to tell a compelling part of his story.