About this item

Following on from his 2022 LP 'Mr Morale & the Big Steppers', an album of introspection that stripped back the layers of Kendrick's personal life, 2024 saw Kendrick embroiled in a very public beef with Drake. With multiple back-and-forth jabs between the two, albeit it being pretty one-sided in Lamar's favour and the now Grammy-award winning 'Not Like Us' taking the spotlight, the dust settled and Kendrick surprise-dropped 'GNX'. And, whilst there's no tracks from the feud featured on the LP, the sentiment still looms over the album.

As for the album itself, 'GNX' is Lamar's most West Coast sounding album to date. Being born and raised in Compton, Kendrick incorporates elements of G-funk throughout and includes a plethora of the West Coast's most up-and-coming MCs.

Lyrically once again Lamar shines with themes of self-worth and the role of art challenging the status quo and systemic oppression, whilst also examining and deconstructing what it means to be considered by many as the best in hip-hop right now (or possibly ever). It's all incredibly impressive stuff, just also happens that every track is a banger.

A generational talent, Kendrick is yet to make a misstep and 'GNX' further cements his trajectory of being the greatest of all time. 

STAFF COMMENTS

Ethan says: On ‘GNX’, Kendrick Lamar trades his saviour image and bold messages for an eloquent victory lap in his new black Grand National. This joyride is, of course, in the wake of one of hip-hop’s most notorious beefs - the one between Lamar and industry sweetheart Drake. This major pop culture event forms the subtext of the record, as a focal point is celebrating Lamar’s connection to his hometown and culture (something he criticised Drake’s lack of). Grounded firmly in the West Coast sound, Lamar lowers the ladder back into the scene, giving newcomers like Dody6 and YoungThreat moments in the spotlight. ‘GNX’ also sees Lamar having more obvious fun in the studio compared to past works. DJ Mustard-produced “TV Off” is a notable example, with a section where Lamar screams the producer’s name, while “Peekaboo” retains Lamar’s goofy delivery from his work with Baby Keem. “Reincarnated” also celebrates black musicians and learning from history. Bouncy, playful and passionate, Lamar sounds freer than ever behind the wheel.

TRACK LISTING

1. Wacced Out Murals
2. Squabble Up
3. Luther
4. Man At The Garden
5. Hey Now
6. Reincarnated
7. TV Off
8. Dodger Blue
9. Peekaboo
10. Heart Pt. 6
11. GNX
12. Gloria