A few weeks ago, I was scrolling on Instagram and came across a newly posted photo on Kendrick Lamar’s account. “That’s a nice picture,” I thought to myself.
Then it clicked.
Hands shaking, I immediately went to Apple Music, and there it was: a new Kendrick Lamar album titled “GNX.”
Lamar released his sixth studio album Nov. 22, surprising hip-hop fans and his record label alike. Besides a minute-long teaser on his YouTube, there was virtually no buildup for the album prior to its release. Yet, as one of the most influential rap artists of all time, Pulitzer Prize-winning Lamar doesn’t need months of promotion to attract attention for any of his projects.
From the vulnerable “good kid, m.A.A.d city” to the jazz-infused “To Pimp a Butterfly” to the intensely personal “Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers,” Lamar has a 14-year-long legacy of standout albums. Rooted in California culture, “GNX” combines Lamar’s signature political and social commentary with deep introspection to make a long-lasting impression.
The album starts off with “wacced out murals,” where Spanish guitar and vocals meet Lamar’s confident, fiery storytelling in an unexpected yet harmonious blend. Lamar reflects on his legacy and the foundations of respect, referencing the relatively recent vandalization of a mural dedicated to him in his hometown of Compton. He boldly criticizes the rap industry and calls out influential artists, all while staying undeniably true to himself. This song sets the tone for the rest of the album, with Lamar telling listeners that “I never lost who I am for a rap image / It’s motivation if you wonder how I did it.”
Next is “squabble up,” where Lamar’s painstaking lyricism and captivating energy blend to create a fun and dynamic song described as a “West Coast-infused party anthem.” The music video only elevates the listening experience. Featuring dancing, bikes, a sign that reads “JESUS SAVES GANGSTERS TOO!” and more, all in one (large) green room, the video is a clear commemoration of Lamar’s West Coast roots and Los Angeles street culture.
From well-known artists and producers like Kamasi Washington and Jack Antonoff to emerging Los Angeles-based rappers, “GNX” features an eclectic range of talented artists to produce a vibrant, impactful album. Lefty Gunplay definitely leaves an impression with his calm and collected flow in “tv off,” and Dody6 with his smooth and confident back and forth with Lamar in “hey now.”
In two other noteworthy tracks, “luther” and “gloria,” SZA’s melodic vocals join Lamar to create beautifully contemplative R&B tunes. There is a dreamy quality incorporated into both songs, though the instrumentals range from soft and sweet, to reflective and regretful.
Lamar thankfully continued his “The Heart” series with “GNX,” releasing “heart pt. 6” and reclaiming what is his after Drake dropped “The Heart Part 6” during their infamous feud this past summer. Lamar’s sequence of standalone singles, usually coinciding with the release of his albums, has become a staple in his discography that offers a grounded and self-reflective view into his life. “Heart pt. 6” was no different, and it was even one of my favorites in the series to date.
Another standout song was “dodger blue,” featuring Wallie the Sensei and Siete7x. In this unabashedly prideful track, Lamar shouts out high schools across L.A. and tells listeners, “Don’t say you hate L.A. when you don’t travel past the 10.”
“GNX” is a perfectly complex, introspective album and an ode to the West Coast, cementing Lamar in Los Angeles hip-hop culture. So when he repeats “I deserve it all” throughout “man at the garden,” I can’t help but agree.
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Summary
Kendrick Lamar’s “GNX” was released Nov. 22 and had virtually no buildup prior to its release. The album intertwines social commentary with profound emotional reflection, easily becoming a staple in my album rotation.
