Cam Kirk Captures Kendrick Lamar and Mike Will Made It in the Studio

In this exclusive behind-the-scenes account, photographer Cam Kirk shares his unforgettable experience capturing Kendrick Lamar and Mike Will Made It in a candid moment at the studio. The night was marked by numerous unexpected encounters with music industry icons, and it all started with a seemingly ordinary invitation from Mike Will to join him at Triangle Studios.

Cam Kirk and Mike Will have a history that dates back to their college days when Kirk worked at DTLR in Cumberland Mall, and Mike Will frequently shopped for snapback hats. The two became closer through their mutual friend B. Wright, who started working on marketing and design for Mike Will. Kirk would often accompany Mike to events and studio sessions, capturing photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

On this particular night, Mike Will received a text and casually asked Kirk to accompany him to a neighboring studio. Upon arrival, they found Pharrell, T.I., and Usher in the middle of a recording session. The session paused to allow Mike Will to play some of his beats for the trio, highlighting the respect they held for him as a producer. In a surreal moment, Mike Will played the future hit "Move That Dope" by Future, and encouraged Pharrell to contribute a verse.

Following their brief time with the three stars, Mike Will and Kirk returned to Triangle Studios, where they soon received another text. This time, they walked into another room within the same studio and found Kendrick Lamar recording, with SZA possibly present as well. Kirk had some prior connections with the TDE camp through his work with Schoolboy Q but had never been in Kendrick's presence before.

The photo of Kendrick Lamar and Mike Will Made It on the couch may seem casual, but it represents an extraordinary night where Kirk met Pharrell, T.I., Usher, and Kendrick Lamar, all in a matter of hours. It may not have marked the beginning of the collaboration between Kendrick and Mike Will, but it certainly solidified their bond and laid the groundwork for the classics they would create together.

Cam Kirk remains grateful for the opportunity to have been present during these remarkable moments, witnessing and capturing greatness in the making.