Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
In the early morning of November 22, I opened Spotify to a surprise: “Listen to Kendrick Lamar’s new album.”
“GNX” by American rapper Kendrick Lamar is his sixth studio album that was released by surprise, without any announcements from Lamar or his label. It features artists such as SZA, Dodgy6, Lefty Gunplay, and more.
Kendrick is known for his socially conscious music, technical artistry, and complex songwriting. He spent 2024 in the spotlight because of the back and forth feud with Drake. GNX was the culminating bomb.
The opening track “Wacced out Morals” actually starts in Spanish, making the cultural impact of the album clear. He then builds the beat up throughout the song rapping about the hypocrisy and power struggles within the rap industry, which leads to the beat drop finishing the introduction of the album.
The next track “Squabble Up” continues the conversation with an upbeat tone, taking multiple shots at “fake” rappers, including Drake.
The third track in the album “Luther (with SZA)” is a love ballad featuring a sample from the song “If This World Were Mine” originally by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, and prominently features SZA in the chorus, adding a layer of emotional depth to the lyrics.
The tracks “Man at the garden,” “Hey Now,” “Heart Pt.6” and “Reincarnated” talk about his journey with self reflection, success and overall health. He reassures himself repeatedly to make himself and the audience understand that behind all the doubts and hate, he deserves the success after all the hard work. Kendrick makes sure the audience knows who helped and made him who he is today.
Tracks “Peekaboo” and “GNX” are tributes to Kendrick’s past. He gives credit to the West Coast where he grew up, and the pride behind owning a GNX.
The last track of the album “Gloria (with SZA)” is metaphor for Kendrick’s deep love for his craft, specifically his pen. He uses the name “Gloria” as a personification of his creative power and expression. It’s a song about his dedication to his music and the process of writing.
Overall, the album has seen success. But to me personally, I believe that Kendrick embodies the meaning behind self-worth in the album and inspires people to embrace all parts of themselves. “GNX” is one of Kendrick’s best pieces of work, and really shows true artistry.
