Kendrick Lamar is cementing his legacy in Hip-Hop with an extraordinary run. This year, he defeated one of the most commercially successful rappers (outside of Eminem) in a highly publicized battle, forced elite MCs to take shots at him only to later apologize, and was chosen as the Super Bowl LIX halftime show headliner—a spot many, including Lil Wayne, thought would naturally go to Wayne. Most impressively, Kendrick accomplished what few could: uniting Los Angeles, even if only briefly.
Despite all this, I didn’t anticipate a new Kendrick album for at least another year. He’s the kind of artist who only steps into the spotlight when he has something monumental to share. While Drake’s moves may have drawn him out, I assumed he’d retreat to his usual solitude afterward. That assumption seemed accurate when things went silent following his “Not Like Us” concert and video release on July 4th.
Dot kept a low profile after the video, with the exception of a few subtle shots at Drake. Even after being announced as the 2025 Super Bowl headliner in New Orleans, he maintained his characteristic quietness—until November 22, 2024. That’s when Kendrick shocked the world with the surprise release of his album, GNX.
Before diving into the music, it’s crucial to recognize the significance of this project. Not only does GNX follow his historic battle with Drake, which solidified his status as the undisputed king of Hip-Hop, but it also marks a major shift in his career. This is Kendrick’s first release since leaving Top Dawg Entertainment, the label that defined much of his legacy, and his debut under his own imprint, pgLang.
The stakes are higher than ever. Can Kendrick deliver another masterpiece without his old team, and after what many consider one of Hip-Hop’s greatest battles?
Let’s find out.
1. Wacced Out Murals
Produced by Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, Dahi, Craig Balmoris, Frano, Tyler Reese, & M-Tech
The album opens with an evocative performance by Deyra Barrera (uncredited), who sings in Spanish over a moody beat that builds with haunting synths and minimalist percussion. While the lyrics are open to interpretation, a rough translation reveals she says, “I feel your presence here, last night, and we start to cry.”
Kendrick enters with the line, “yesterday somebody wacced out my mural,” addressing a series of recent personal and industry-wide issues. The song intertwines introspection with commentary on the state of Hip-Hop, referencing legends like Lil Wayne and Snoop Dogg while exploring the fragility of legacy. The minimalist yet potent production mirrors Kendrick’s piercing lyricism, making it a striking way to set the tone for the album.
2. Squabble Up
Produced by Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, Kendrick Lamar, Scott Bridgeway, & M-Tech
This track opens with the instrumental used in the “They Not Like Us” video, and it’s a welcome surprise for fans. Built on a sample of Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together,” the production blends the soulful essence of the 1970s with the funky swagger of west coast Hip-Hop.
Kendrick uses this upbeat and danceable track to deliver sharp critiques of the industry, posing questions like, “Tell me why the fuck you niggas rap if it’s fictional/Tell me why the fuck you niggas fed if you criminal.” The contrast between the buoyant beat and his incisive lyrics creates a dynamic listening experience that balances fun with depth.
3. Luther
Featuring SZA; Produced by Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, Cardo Got Wings, Kamasi Washington, Scott Bridgeway, Roselilah, & M-Tech
A standout track inspired by Luther Vandross’s classic R&B, “Luther” samples “If This World Were Mine” and features a radiant performance by SZA. The production layers lush melodies and rich instrumentation, creating a warm, soulful backdrop.
Themes of love, resilience, and personal growth dominate the lyrics. SZA’s smooth, expressive vocals complement Kendrick’s introspective verses. With its timeless appeal, “Luther” feels destined for heavy rotation and will likely become a highlight of live performances, from concerts to Super Bowl appearances.
4. Man at the Garden
Produced by Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, M-Tech, Craig Balmoris, & Tyler Reese
“I deserve it all” serves as the anthem for this introspective track. Kendrick’s repeated mantra over slow, heavy percussion invokes the same meditative energy as Nas’s “One Mic.” The song’s verses grow in intensity, culminating in a fiery final verse where Kendrick raps:
“Keep these bitch niggas away from me / Keep all my blessings faithfully… More blood be spillin’, it’s just paint to me.”
This verse seems to address competition with peers like J. Cole and Drake, questioning their claims to greatness while asserting his own place in the pantheon of Hip-Hop. The restrained yet powerful production allows Kendrick’s dynamic vocal delivery to shine.
5. Hey Now
Featuring Dody6; Produced by Mustard, Sounwave, & Jack Antonoff
With its infectious hook (“Hey now, say now”) and funky west coast vibes, “Hey Now” channels the danceable energy of early 2000s Hip-Hop. Kendrick’s playful yet intricate rhymes make this a standout party track, while Dody6 delivers a charismatic guest verse that adds to the song’s fun, carefree spirit. The production’s blend of Mustard’s signature bounce and layered instrumentation ensures this track will be a crowd favorite.
6. Reincarnated
Produced by Kendrick Lamar, Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, Noah Ehler, & M-Tech
Sampling 2Pac’s “Made Niggaz,” “Reincarnated” reimagines the classic beat to explore themes of legacy and redemption. Each verse tells the story of a different life, culminating in Kendrick’s own.
The first verse depicts a male musician’s rise in the 1940s and 1950s, while the second portrays a “musical genius” struggling with addiction, possibly inspired by Billie Holiday. The final verse reveals Kendrick’s current journey and ends with a conversation with God, tying the narratives together and hinting at his redemption from a past life as Lucifer.
7. TV Off
Featuring Lefty Gunplay; Produced by Mustard, Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, Sean Momberger, & Kamasi Washington
With its energetic production, “TV Off” feels tailor-made for a homecoming celebration. The beat’s vibrant layers and a mid-song switch showcase Mustard’s signature touch. Kendrick’s animated delivery and Lefty Gunplay’s outro add to the celebratory mood. The track’s infectious energy and meme-worthy moments ensure it will resonate widely.
8. Dodger Blue
Featuring Wallie the Sensei, Siete7x, & Roddy Ricch; Produced by Sounwave, Terrace Martin, Jack Antonoff, Tane Runo, & Tim Maxey
A heartfelt ode to the Los Angeles Dodgers, “Dodger Blue” slows the tempo with smooth, melodic production. Kendrick’s verses paint vivid imagery of his love for the city, while guest features from Wallie the Sensei, Siete7x, and Roddy Ricch add depth and texture. This track’s reflective tone provides a welcome shift in the album’s pacing.
9. Peekaboo
Featuring AzChike; Produced by Sounwave, Scott Bridgeway, & Sean Momberger
A high-energy banger, “Peekaboo” features a hypnotic hook: “What they talkin’ ’bout? They ain’t talkin’ ’bout nothin’.” Kendrick’s rapid-fire delivery and AzChike’s vibrant guest appearance make this track a surefire hit. The catchy refrain and pulsating beat create an electrifying atmosphere that will leave listeners hitting replay.
10. Heart Pt. 6
Produced by Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, Juju The Fool, & M-Tech
The latest installment in Kendrick’s iconic “Heart” series, this track offers a raw, introspective look at his journey. Kendrick reflects on his early days with Top Dawg Entertainment, reminiscing about Jay Rock’s early career, Ab-Soul’s lyricism, and Schoolboy Q’s rise. He also grapples with the dissolution of Black Hippy, expressing guilt and regret while reaffirming his commitment to personal growth. The heartfelt lyrics and soulful production make this a deeply moving entry in the series.
11. GNX
Featuring Hitta J3, YoungThreat, & Peysoh; Produced by Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, Rascal, Kenny & Billy, & Tim Maxey
A hard-hitting track where Kendrick steps back to let Hitta J3, YoungThreat, and Peysoh shine. While Kendrick’s contributions are limited to ad-libs and the hook, his presence amplifies the track’s infectious energy. The relentless beat and standout verses from the guests make this an undeniable highlight.
12. Gloria
Featuring SZA; Produced by Deats, Sounwave, & Jack Antonoff
On “Gloria,” Kendrick personifies his pen, exploring their complex relationship as though it were a love affair. The song’s narrative is so vivid that listeners may initially believe it’s about his wife, Whitney Alford. SZA’s ethereal vocals add a layer of emotional depth, and the laid-back production perfectly complements the track’s introspective tone. This is a masterclass in storytelling through music.
Kendrick’s latest album marks a significant shift in his career. He’s moved beyond the “I’m just happy to be here” phase and fully embraced the “I’m the guy” chapter—a stage every great rapper who’s achieved what Kendrick has inevitably enters. Known for his usually non-confrontational demeanor, Kendrick reveals a more aggressive side on this album, even addressing other rappers by name, including Wayne and Snoop. While these mentions aren’t disses, they stand out because Kendrick rarely acknowledges other artists or their critiques of him.
What’s striking about this album is Kendrick’s presence. While much of his past work has been reflective or conceptual, this project feels rooted in real-time experiences. It’s as though Kendrick is speaking directly from the present, creating something immediate and raw.
For years, critics have claimed that Kendrick couldn’t make hits or produce “slaps.” He’s responded with an album that has at least six potential hits and plenty of undeniable bangers. Most importantly, Kendrick has delivered a true west coast album. Although some of the features don’t add much, he’s provided a platform for emerging west coast artists to shine.
Subtly but surely, Kendrick also takes shots at Drake throughout the album, adding another layer of intrigue.
While the album is undeniably excellent, placing it within Kendrick’s broader catalog is challenging—it’s both a departure and a testament to his evolving artistry.
