Kendrick Lamar’s GNX: A Bold and Boundary-Pushing Statement

Written By: I'Ja Marie 

Kendrick Lamar can’t lose in 2024. Fresh off solidifying his victory over Drake in their much-discussed lyrical feud and securing a coveted Super Bowl halftime spot, the Compton visionary dropped a bomb on us with the surprise release of GNX. The 12-track album, his first since 2022’s Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers, is a genre-bending, introspective journey that reaffirms why Kendrick is in a league of his own.

The record takes its name from the 1987 Buick featured on the album’s cover, the same year Kendrick was born. The rapper behind the biggest song of the year, who may be responsible for the potentially permanent demise of a certain rapper from Toronto, is as detail-oriented as ever on the record, leaving a number of easter eggs for fans to dissect in the coming days. Off the bat, however, GNX is clearly a love letter to Kendrick’s native Los Angeles. The city’s distinct G-Funk-infused sound is all over the album, produced by a tight circle of collaborators, including Mustard—the architect behind the lethal diss track “Not Like Us”—and Jack Antonoff, who’s crafted some of the biggest pop albums on the planet. Kendrick strikes a balance between both sensibilities, making songs with mainstream appeal while remaining rooted in LA’s unique sonic identity.

There’s plenty to unpack with GNX, including possible responses to commentary around Kendrick’s Super Bowl announcement and his ongoing feud with Drake. But the heart of this record lies in its exploration of Kendrick’s legacy, both as a man born in 1987 and as an artist shaped by the streets of Los Angeles.
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Produced by Sounwave and Jack Antonoff, with contributions from Mustard, Kamasi Washington, Terrace Martin, and more, GNX seamlessly blends jazz, soul, trap, and experimental sounds, offering a deeply personal yet universally resonant reflection on power and legacy.

The Breakdown of my Favs From GNX: ​

Dodger Blue”
Kendrick weaves through a distorted bounce with a hazy flow, joined by Wallie The Sensei, Siete, and Roddy Ricch. As a tribute to the West Coast, the track is steeped in Cali vibes.

“Peekaboo”
This track feels like Kendrick’s career in song form—he moves in silence, coming out only when he’s ready to shake up the game. The eerie production sets the tone, and Kendrick’s clever lyricism keeps you hooked. Only he could turn a playful phrase like “Hey now, say now” into something menacing and iconic. His ability to weave humor into hard-hitting bars makes this a standout moment.

“Hey Now”
Here, Kendrick brings us a pure West Coast vibe with a modern twist. He opens the floor to Dody 6, showcasing his commitment to spotlighting new voices in LA. Kendrick’s verse hits hard, with lines that feel like a direct response to critics, while the production transitions effortlessly between reverb-heavy beats and Cali bounce. “Hey Now” is a testament to Kendrick’s ability to collaborate while keeping the spotlight on his city.

“Heart Pt. 6”
This ethereal track continues Kendrick’s Heart series with unmatched depth and honesty. Over a dreamy soundscape crafted by Sounwave and Jack Antonoff, Kendrick reflects on his journey, his family at TDE, and the weight of his legacy. The track is both introspective and celebratory, with Kendrick candidly admitting, “Black Hippy didn’t work ‘cause of me.” It’s a vulnerable moment that adds to the richness of the album.

“Gloria”
“Gloria” is an instant favorite, with Kendrick delivering one of his most introspective performances to date. At first, it feels like a love song, but as the track unfolds, it becomes clear he’s speaking about his relationship with his pen. The storytelling is vivid, and the Nas-inspired structure adds another layer of complexity. It’s a track that reminds us why Kendrick is one of the greatest storytellers in hip-hop.

Photo By @Pleckham

“Luther”
This soulful collaboration with SZA is pure magic. Sampling Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn’s “If This World Were Mine,” the track blends Kendrick’s sharp lyricism with SZA’s velvety vocals. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the song’s uplifting message about reimagining a world without pain makes it one of the album’s most moving moments.

“Squabble Up”
If you’re looking for a track to get you hyped, “Squabble Up” is it. The upbeat production, built around Debbie Deb’s “When I Hear Music,” is infectious. Kendrick’s energy is unmatched as he flexes his brash confidence and delivers sharp critiques of inauthenticity in the rap game. The beat switch to triumphant horns gives the track an epic feel, making it impossible not to bob your shoulders.

“Reincarnated”
On this cinematic track, Kendrick channels the spirit of 2Pac while creating a narrative that spans decades. From honoring past legends to reflecting on his own battles, “Reincarnated” is layered and deeply personal. The sample of 2Pac’s “Made Niggaz” ties it all together, grounding the track in West Coast history while allowing Kendrick to forge his own path.
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With GNX, Kendrick Lamar once again proves why he’s one of the greatest artists of our generation. The album is bold, reflective, and boundary-pushing, seamlessly blending narrative depth with musical innovation. Kendrick may have surprised us with this release, but the message is clear: He’s not just making music—he’s defining an era.

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