Kendrick Lamar has done it again. On November 22, the rapper released his latest album, GNX. With a brief trailer prior to the album’s release, fans were unexpectedly greeted with 12 songs totaling 44 minutes of runtime.
2024 seems to have been Lamar’s year. After his feature in Future and Metro Boomin’s album WE DON’T TRUST YOU, he became embroiled in a highly publicized feud with Drake. After unleashing chart-topping singles such as “Euphoria” and “Not Like Us,” it became universally accepted by the rap community that Lamar was the winner. The American rapper followed up with “The Pop Out: Ken & Friends,” a one-time concert featuring Lamar and other rap juggernauts, including Dr. Dre and Tyler, the Creator. During the concert, Lamar performed nearly all the disses that he wrote in front of a crowd of 16,000. On July 4, Lamar released a music video for his song “Not Like Us,” which rap fans hailed as a victory lap over Drake. At the start of the video, a teaser for a new song was released, leaving many fans wondering if a new Kendrick album would be on the way. In late November, the album arrived.
However, GNX isn’t an album meant to provide laughs like some of his disses; there are deeper meanings all throughout the album. For instance, the album’s title references the 1987 Buick Grand National Experimental, the exact car model that Lamar’s father used to drive. The album cover shows Lamar standing next to the car that holds so much sentimental value to him. The Buick, an emblem of resilience and legacy, symbolizes the album’s exploration of growth, identity, and roots.
Within the album, several tracks expand on these themes with profound storytelling. “Heart Pt. 6” has captured listeners with its raw emotion, continuing Lamar’s Heart series with reflections on fame, personal struggles, and artistic purpose. The track has quickly risen as one of the album’s most popular tracks. Similarly, “Luther” stands out for its nostalgic undertones, sampling the legendary Luther Vandross to bridge the gap between the past and present. The song also features uncredited background vocals from SZA, whose haunting voice enriches emotional impact.
Another fan favorite, “Squabble Up,” channels a fiery energy, with Lamar delivering sharp verses over an infectious beat. Its themes of resilience and overcoming adversity resonates strongly with listeners, making it one of the most streamed tracks from the album. Meanwhile, “TV Off” takes a critical look at the media’s role in modern society, challenging listeners to disconnect from distractions and reflect on their priorities.
“Man at the Garden” is another standout, where Lamar meditates on pivotal moments in his life and career. The track, underscored by a melancholic piano loop, creates a reflective mood as Lamar examines the weight of his decisions and their broader implications. This song is complemented by “Reincarnated,” a lushly produced piece that delves into themes of transformation and self-discovery. The combination of layered vocals and dynamic production mirrors the evolving complexity of Lamar’s own narrative.
Perhaps one of the most striking moments on the album is “Gloria,” the closing track, which blends gospel-inspired elements with Lamar’s poignant reflections on faith and hope. It serves as a powerful conclusion to an album steeped in personal and cultural significance. The interplay of uplifting choir vocals and Lamar’s raw delivery leaves listeners with a sense of closure and introspection.
Throughout GNX, Lamar’s ability to weave personal anecdotes with broader cultural commentary is evident. He not only invites listeners into his world but also challenges them to reflect on their own lives. With its innovative production, emotionally resonant themes, and thought-provoking lyrics, GNX cements Kendrick Lamar’s status as one of the most influential voices in modern music.
