Kendrick Lamar’s GNX: A Surprise Symphony of Feuds, Features, and Fire
Kendrick Lamar has shaken the hip-hop world once again, unveiling GNX, a surprise album that dropped with little more than a cryptic teaser. A video titled GNX appeared just minutes before the album hit streaming platforms, leaving fans scrambling to absorb Kendrick’s latest.
A Murky Feud Unveiled
The album’s opening track, “Wacced Out Murals,” dives headfirst into Lamar’s ongoing feud with Drake. The song references the AI-assisted diss track “Taylor Made Freestyle” that ignited tensions earlier this year. Lamar’s poetic barbs feel surgical, proving the beef is far from over.
Collaborations That Shine
Lamar enlisted an eclectic mix of artists to help bring GNX to life. Track two, “Squabble Up,” teased in the video for May’s Not Like Us, is a defiant anthem of loyalty. Track three, “Luther,” sees Lamar reunite with former labelmate SZA, weaving soulful layers into a haunting narrative.
SZA’s imprint is felt beyond “Luther.” She returns on “Gloria,” a global fusion piece featuring regional Mexican musician Deyra Barrera and genre-defying artist Ink. Elsewhere, Red Hearse members Jack Antonoff and Sam Dew lend their signature touches, with Antonoff producing nearly every track except “Peekaboo.”
A Jazz-Rap Odyssey
Jazz phenom Kamasi Washington anchors GNX’s sonic identity, particularly on the evocative “Dodger Blue,” which also boasts contributions from Sie7e and Wallie the Sensei. Other guests include Dody6 on the bombastic “Hey Now” and AzChike’s gritty appearance on “Peekaboo.”
The Legacy of “The Heart”
Fans of Lamar’s storied “The Heart” series will rejoice with “Heart Pt. 6,” a searing addition that doubles as a counter to Drake’s provocations. The track reflects Lamar’s ethos—unapologetically raw and deeply introspective.
A Cultural Apex
GNX follows Not Like Us, released in May, and arrives just months before Lamar’s anticipated halftime show at the Super Bowl in New Orleans this February. With its intricate storytelling, genre-blurring production, and a lineup of powerhouse collaborators, GNX cements Kendrick Lamar’s place as a boundary-pushing visionary in modern hip-hop.
Ready to dive in?
Hit play and let Kendrick Lamar’s genius unfold. More on this album later.
