West Coast Connection Forum
DUBCC - Tha Connection => West Coast Connection => Topic started by: Duck Duck Doggy on November 22, 2024, 09:23:43 AM
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Y’all so busy licking snoop and Dre’s nuts didn’t even realize Kendrick just dropped a new album.
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when?!
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when?!
Just dropped. Same day as Cube. The west doing it way too major right now
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wow!
have to check it!
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KDot is an boring asrtist, with too many forced flows. Trying to mimic eminem.
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:damn:
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Wooooow
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Crazy this a surprise release!!!
Production mostly handled by Dahi, Mustard & Sounwave
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album on first listen is fire, and im not even the biggest kendrick fan...
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RBX album was the first domino in a west coast takeover
8)
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RBX album was the first domino in a west coast takeover
8)
Great year for west for sure 8) Wish X drop this year but still…
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Some real West shit on here…
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album on first listen is fire, and im not even the biggest kendrick fan...
It definitely is. This the album we needed from Kendrick. And I’m glad Kendrick called out snoop on his fence riding BS. Kendrick giving zero fucks
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KDot is an boring asrtist, with too many forced flows. Trying to mimic eminem.
True .. His music is boring
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"Reincarnated" is a Johnny J beat, it's 2Pac's "Made Niggaz"
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The West is up right now for sure. I'm hearing Lil' Wayne got dissed.
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The west coast killing it in 2024! These last snipes before the year end is nuts!
We got DPG, Eastsidaz, RBX, Xzibit, Dot, Cube, Quik & Problem, Snoop & Dre 🔥🔥🔥
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He no longer on Aftermath?
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Crooked I Good vs. evil 3 is also Out ...
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Man at the Garden reminds me of Nas one Mic ..
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Reincarnated Sample 2Pac feat. Outlawz - Made Niggaz...give 2Pac and Jonny J Credits FOr this Beat!!!
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Crooked I Good vs. evil 3 is also Out ...
what???
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"Reincarnated" is a Johnny J beat, it's 2Pac's "Made Niggaz"
wow... wtf.
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what???
No i Just fuvkin around 🤣😂🤣😂🤣
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"Reincarnated" is a Johnny J beat, it's 2Pac's "Made Niggaz"
Dude. Here is not reddit. Everybody here knows this for sure.
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Y’all so busy licking snoop and Dre’s nuts didn’t even realize Kendrick just dropped a new album.
It was a surprise drop so how easy would it be for people to realize?
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Reincarnated Sample 2Pac feat. Outlawz - Made Niggaz...give 2Pac and Jonny J Credits FOr this Beat!!!
Another genius here.
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Crooked I Good vs. evil 3 is also Out ...
really? do you have a link? can't find it anywhere...
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Mr morale album reminded me the days we were buying cd's to listen to music. That was a concept album that you are going to discover some details and tasted in years.
This GNX album now reminds me the days we were buying cassetes. Kendrick is a genius really. I'm so surprised with the vibe of album. It's really impressive.
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Album is dope, hopefully they release it on cd!
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It was a surprise drop so how easy would it be for people to realize?
By getting snoops dick out your mouth ho
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Squabble Up is going to be a smash 💥
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Easiest first listen of a Dot album since GKMC for me.
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really? do you have a link? can't find it anywhere...
he’s just being retarded
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Man At Garden good so far but i Just find Kendrick so boring. Album will be a 1 time listen for me. Hope the rest of the album has something good.
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This album is the $hit!
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what a fucking album! nothing to throw away. it's complete. Heart pt 6, Reincarnated, Wacced out wall murals, Man at the garden are jewelry
8)
now i will listen again and again and appreciate this album
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got a great west coast album, and then we'll have the one that will be played in target in a few weeks (missionary)
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By getting snoops dick out your mouth ho
Fuck you. Go give yourself a reach around.
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part 2 on the way according to keem
dot strangled himself a goat
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Fuck you. Go give yourself a reach around.
Why you so mad? :ohmy: :mjlol:
Anyways
This album is contender for album of the year for me. I highly doubt missionary is going to be better than this but I hope I’m wrong
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Why you so mad? :ohmy: :mjlol:
Anyways
This album is contender for album of the year for me. I highly doubt missionary is going to be better than this but I hope I’m wrong
This and Tyler's album too. Two great projects!
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A part 2 or completely different album makes sense; album is short as shit. And while it’s exactly what I want from him, I just know he’s gonna drop some more layered/deeper/darker , more artistic shit.
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I'm really surprised he decided to release Squabble Up aka Broccoli in full. Just played the whole album in the whip and this shit bangs.
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This and Tyler's album too. Two great projects!
nobody even made a thread for tyler album?
:ohmy:
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Another genius here.
More genius than you that's a fact!!!! Live with IT!!!
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he’s just being retarded
Ahhh look Here someone's pussy is itchy or butthurt???
Get the fuvk outta Here !!!!
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Dot checked Snoop and Snoop just bowed down…I love Snoop but he’s been tryin to play both sides since the Pac and Biggie shit all the way up to the Kendrick and Drake battle.
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Dot checked Snoop and Snoop just bowed down…I love Snoop but he’s been tryin to play both sides since the Pac and Biggie shit all the way up to the Kendrick and Drake battle.
Yup. Typical snoop response. You almost can’t even be mad at him he’s just always been like that
Eminem called him out too in a similar fashion
I agree with both Kendrick and Eminem
Snoop is a business and it would be bad for business to go against Kendrick who’s having the biggest year
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K Dot rapping on a straight Johhny J beat in 2024. So awesome. He picked a great Pac song to remake. Didn’t even mess with the beat much other than a brief switchup.
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Instant Classic!
Squabble Up, Squabble Up!
The type of Kendrick album have been waiting for!
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Dot checked Snoop and Snoop just bowed down…I love Snoop but he’s been tryin to play both sides since the Pac and Biggie shit all the way up to the Kendrick and Drake battle.
I was expecting such response from Dogg, he really haven’t been about crashing out since forever, more about peace & love….any other response would be forced and weird from him.
Kendrick is the lil hommie and any negative response definitely not good for the West.
Kendrick made his feelings, show he was emotional about something his O.G did, instead saying fuck your feelings , as the big hommie, you have to look at the bigger picture (especially for the Coast)
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Best album of the 2024 so far. Love it that he went straight west coast on this one. Did Ali mix the album? The production is incredible and overall sound is amazing.
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Incredible project. Way better than Mr. Morale, which I honestly found weird and boring at the time. Kendrick needed these Mustard beats in his life!
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Best songs:
Wacced out Murals
Squabble Up
No Man at the Garden
Hey Now
Reincarnated
TV Off
Gloria
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Album is fire.
On TV Off is he talking to Game with this line?
Nigga feel like he entitled 'cause he knew me since a kid
Bitch, I cut my granny off if she don't see it how I see it, he
Got a big mouth but he lack big ideas
Send him to the moon, that's just how I feel, yellin'
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part 2 on the way according to keem
dot strangled himself a goat
Wait what??
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Read somewhere on twitter this is better than gkmc was!
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Wait what??
They’re saying this isn’t the the main album. More iof an appetizer album probably coming around Super Bowl. Plus the song from the teaser isn’t on this album
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They’re saying this isn’t the the main album. More iof an appetizer album probably coming around Super Bowl. Plus the song from the teaser isn’t on this album
Did Keem say that?
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Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Ice Cube Pull A West Coast Takeover With New Music, And Other New Hip-Hop Releases
J. Cole, Playboi Carti, Boldy James and Harry Fraud, Bossman Dlow, Lil Tjay, Jack Harlow and more also unleash new heat.
Today is Friday, which means there are a ton of new releases to look forward to from some of your favorite Hip-Hop artists. To help you unwind and enjoy the weekend, check out VIBE’s picks of songs and albums you should hear and add to your soundtrack of weekend festivities.
Kendrick Lamar – GNX
(https://www.vibe.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Kendrick-Lamar-GNX-1732295478_a5f9e5.jpg)
Kendrick Lamar kept up his 2024 theme of stopping the world in its tracks with his surprise album GNX. The 12-track, 44-minute effort opened up with fiery shots at Lil Wayne and Snoop Dogg on “wacced out murals,” reflecting on the reactions to him being selected for the Super Bowl.
The album then descends into a mix of West Coast bops and pensive soulful cuts, tapping Mustard yet again and a slew of local west coast artists that people may not have been familiar with. If fans and naysayers wished K. Dot collaborated more with hometown acts or provided more “hits,” they will likely walk away satisfied with GNX.
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Did Keem say that?
“Everyone happy again or y’all need another month till ya need some more”
Plus, Kendrick’s own promo has a snippet not on this album and shows two of those rides of his
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“Everyone happy again or y’all need another month till ya need some more”
Plus, Kendrick’s own promo has a snippet not on this album and shows two of those rides of his
although we never had NATION after DAMN
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Y’all so busy licking snoop and Dre’s nuts didn’t even realize Kendrick just dropped a new album.
lmao
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West West on the radar.
The old samples gave an incredible vibe to the album. This is dope. 8) 8)
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https://www.complex.com/music/a/backwoodsaltar/kendrick-lamar-snoop-dogg-drake-taylor-made-lyrics
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I dunno about anyone else I his voice now on records annoy me
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This definitely the safest and easiest to listen to Album he’s dropped since GKMC. Givin me major 90s vibes thanks to the samples and overall vibe. Love this shit. Makes the Cube album unlistenable apart from 4-5 tracks
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Gotta marinate a little longer but this definitely one of K. Dot best albums. So many tracks are a 5/5.
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This definitely the safest and easiest to listen to Album he’s dropped since GKMC. Givin me major 90s vibes thanks to the samples and overall vibe. Love this shit. Makes the Cube album unlistenable apart from 4-5 tracks
Give it a spin. Its 6 time in row. Still hes actent is anoying. This 2pac beat beat beat on there.
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Best album of the 2024 so far. Love it that he went straight west coast on this one. Did Ali mix the album? The production is incredible and overall sound is amazing.
Honestly production sounded ruff and not polished enough to me. This gives a mixtape taste to the album and also brought me to the days we were buying cassettes. So i think they prefered this type of mixtape vibe and ruff sound consciously. I need a walkman and cassette to listen to this album as soon as possible.
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Honestly production sounded ruff and not polished enough to me. This gives a mixtape taste to the album and also brought me to the days we were buying cassettes. So i think they prefered this type of mixtape vibe and ruff sound consciously. I need a walkman and cassette to listen to this album as soon as possible.
IMO it is mastered and produced better the most of the albums these days - especially Cube’s Man Down which sounds horrible as for such a veteran as Cube.
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https://www.instagram.com/p/DCu5v96s7Iz/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
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https://www.instagram.com/p/DCu5v96s7Iz/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
I don’t care what he thinks - this album is masterpiece!!!!
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this album is fire 8) 8)
that pac sample 8) 8)
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https://www.instagram.com/p/DCu5v96s7Iz/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
Makes some good points first few paragraphs. No opinion of the politics talk, and def disagree with only liking 6-7 joints
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Kendrick Lamar – GNX | Review
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Kendrick Lamar’s new album, GNX, hit the scene like a curveball, catching fans and critics off guard. Known for his dense, intricate storytelling and heavy conceptual themes, Kendrick flips the script here with a project that feels stripped down, looser, and more visceral. The energy is unmistakably West Coast, and the album feels like it was designed to be blared from car speakers on a hot LA afternoon. It’s far from his most ambitious work, but it’s still unmistakably Kendrick—filled with clever wordplay, hard-hitting beats, and moments of brilliance. That said, it doesn’t quite reach the heights of his greatest works like Good Kid, M.A.A.D City or To Pimp a Butterfly.
Let’s address the elephant in the room first: every time Kendrick drops something, there’s an almost ritualistic chorus of fans proclaiming it the “Album of the Year” before the first song even finishes. The fervor surrounding Kendrick is undeniable, and while his track record speaks for itself, this time around, the worship feels a bit overblown. It’s almost like Kendrick could step into the booth, open a crumpled receipt from his local grocery store, and start reading it out loud. Imagine it:
“Eggs. Whole milk. Apples. One pack of flour tortillas.” Add some moody piano chords in the background and a minimal 808 beat, and within five minutes, social media would be flooded with think pieces analyzing the deeper meaning behind the apples or the sociopolitical commentary hidden in the tortillas. Kendrick fans would declare it a groundbreaking meditation on food systems, late-stage capitalism, or his relationship with nostalgia.
The point is, the pedestal Kendrick has been placed on is so high that even his most casual work—or what might feel like filler to some—gets elevated to godlike status. He’s undisputably one of the greatest rappers of our time, but the intensity of the instant praise can sometimes overshadow the actual music. This time with GNX, it feels like the fandom is projecting greatness onto an album that doesn’t necessarily carry the same weight as his earlier masterpieces. While Kendrick’s name alone demands respect, it’s worth stepping back and asking if GNX truly reaches those legendary heights or if it’s being carried, at least partially, by the gravitational pull of his reputation.
The truth is that GNX isn’t groundbreaking or game-changing, but it is fun, digestible, and likely his easiest album to dive into. For all its strengths, this isn’t the kind of album that redefines the genre or pushes any grand cultural agenda. It’s a collection of tracks that reflect where Kendrick is now—mature, reflective, and perhaps a little less precious about his art.
The album opens with “wacced out murals,” a fiery declaration of war. The tension is palpable, with Kendrick taking aim at both the industry and some of his own idols. Over dark, pounding drums and menacing strings, he calls out Snoop Dogg and Lil Wayne while reminding everyone that he’s at the top of the rap game. It’s aggressive, raw, and a clear signal of intent: Kendrick is here to set the tone, and he’s not playing nice. But as the album progresses, that intensity shifts into something more exploratory.
The album’s standout track, “reincarnated,” dives into Kendrick’s fascination with past lives and the cycles of history. Over a soulful, Tupac-sampling beat, he paints vivid pictures of imagined identities: a guitarist navigating racism in the 1950s, a Black woman struggling with addiction, and a musician bartering his talent for fame. It’s one of the album’s most introspective and moving songs, grounding Kendrick in a larger narrative of Black music and its triumphs and tragedies. The production feels warm and nostalgic, yet Kendrick’s lyrics anchor it firmly in the present.
Elsewhere, GNX is brimming with the sounds of contemporary West Coast Hip Hop. Tracks like “gloria” and “luther” pulse with smooth energy, blending sharp, minimalist beats with Kendrick’s effortless charisma. SZA makes two appearances, and her contributions add much-needed texture to the album. Her voice is smooth and inviting, contrasting nicely with Kendrick’s fiery delivery. While some of the guest features—largely from up-and-coming LA rappers—don’t quite hit the same mark, it’s clear that Kendrick is using his platform to elevate new voices. It’s a noble effort, even if the execution doesn’t always stick the landing.
The album’s title track, “gnx,” is a posse cut featuring a trio of underground LA artists. Kendrick largely steps back here, letting the guests shine while he holds down the hook. Unfortunately, the beat is awkward and clunky, undermining what could’ve been a standout moment for these newcomers. While their energy is on point, the track feels like a missed opportunity, bogged down by production that doesn’t do anyone any favors.
If there’s one consistent criticism of GNX, it’s the unevenness of its production. While Kendrick’s lyricism and delivery remain as sharp as ever, some of the beats feel one-dimensional, even boring. Tracks like “dodger blue” and “hey now” suffer from this lack of spark, leaving Kendrick to carry the weight of the songs entirely on his own. Even Jack Antonoff, a surprising name on the production credits, delivers mixed results. Some tracks benefit from his sparse, synth-heavy approach, but others feel hollow, as if they’re missing the depth that made Kendrick’s past albums so captivating.
Still, when the album works, it really works. Songs like “tv off” and “squabble up” hit hard, blending infectious hooks with layered storytelling. “heart pt. 6” sees Kendrick reflecting on his early days, painting vivid memories of his rise alongside collaborators like Jay Rock and SZA. It’s a rare moment of nostalgia on an album that’s otherwise focused on moving forward. Even when GNX stumbles, Kendrick’s raw talent keeps things engaging. His flow is as versatile as ever, shifting effortlessly from aggressive bar spitting to introspective musings.
Perhaps the most surprising thing about GNX is its lack of cohesion. Where previous Kendrick projects felt meticulously crafted, this album is loose and scattered, more like a mixtape than a traditional studio release. That’s not necessarily a bad thing—it’s refreshing to hear Kendrick cut loose—but it does make the album feel less significant in the grand scheme of his career. Compared to the sprawling complexity of Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers or the cultural weight of To Pimp a Butterfly, GNX feels lightweight, almost unfinished.
At the same time, that looseness gives the album a certain charm. It’s not trying to be a masterpiece; it’s an exploration, a snapshot of Kendrick’s current mindset. There’s a sense that this might be a prelude to something bigger, a chance for Kendrick to recalibrate before diving into a more ambitious project. For now, GNX serves as a reminder that Kendrick can still dominate the rap game without overthinking it.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Kendrick album without some controversy. The lingering shadow of his beef with Drake looms over this project, even if it’s not explicitly addressed. Kendrick’s victory lap after dethroning one of pop-rap’s biggest names sets the stage for much of GNX’s braggadocio, but the album itself feels more concerned with the future than rehashing old feuds. Still, the absence of a central theme or concept may leave some listeners wondering what Kendrick is trying to say here, beyond reminding everyone that he’s still the best in the game.
So where does GNX fit in Kendrick’s discography? For us, it’s better than Mr. Morale and even more enjoyable than DAMN, but it doesn’t come close to the storytelling brilliance of Good Kid, M.A.A.D City or the cultural significance of To Pimp a Butterfly. It’s a middle-tier Kendrick album, which is still miles ahead of most of his peers. Tracks like “reincarnated” and “gloria” are proof that Kendrick can deliver standout moments even on an off day, while songs like “gnx” and “dodger blue” show that even the greats aren’t immune to missteps.
Ultimately, GNX is what you make of it. For longtime fans, it’s a chance to see Kendrick experimenting and letting loose, even if the results are uneven. For casual listeners, it’s an accessible entry point into one of rap’s most celebrated discographies. It’s not “Album of the Year”, but it doesn’t need to be. Kendrick Lamar has nothing left to prove, and on GNX, he sounds like he’s finally enjoying that fact.
7.5/10
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Kendrick Lamar Addresses Super Bowl Drama and Five Other Takeaways From ‘GNX’
The surprise album is Kendrick's first official release since his chart-topping hit "Not Like Us"
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With no warning—and because he can—Kendrick Lamar dropped his new album GNX on Friday afternoon. The record takes its name after 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 particular rapper from Toronto, is as detail-oriented as ever on the record, leaving a number 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 of the lethal weapon of a diss track “Not Like Us,” as well as Jack Antonoff, whose crafted some of the biggest pop albums on the planet. Kendrick manages to strike a balance between both sensibilities, making songs with mainstream appeal that maintain a focus on LA’s unique sound
There’s plenty to unpack with GNX, including possible responses to commentary around the announcement of Kendrick’s Super Bowl performance, and his ongoing feud with Drake. We put together seven key takeaways from Kendrick Lamar’s surprise album GNX.
Jack Antonoff’s production
Earlier this year, Jack Antonoff and Kendrick Lamar tested out their potential as collaborators on “6:16 in LA,” the second diss track to arrive in the rapper’s feud with Drake. Antonoff was fresh off the release of Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department and a self-titled record from his own band Bleachers when he appeared as a co-producer on the track. He helmed the track alongside longtime TDE collaborator Sounwave. Now, their names appear beside each other on 11 out of the 12 tracks on GNX. Sounwave and Antonoff share production credits across the album with the likes of Mustard, M-Tech, and Lamar himself.
Primarily a pop producer (his other major release this year includes Sabrina Carpenter’s Short n’ Sweet), Antonoff explores new ground across GNX. “Dodger Blue” is the closest he gets to leaving the mark of his signature sound, but the song also marks a reunion. Sam Dew is credited as a songwriter on the track. In 2019, Antonoff, Soundwave, and Dew launched the collaborative music project Red Hearse. The trio released one album together, but reunited in 2022 on Taylor Swift’s Midnights single “Lavender Haze.” Sounwave and Antonoff also co-wrote and co-produced “Karma” sans Dew.
“Me and Jack, we keep each other informed on any project we’re working on,” Spears told Rolling Stone in 2022. “We usually take at least a week out of the year just to create with no goal in mind.” And if anyone knows what Lamar is looking for, it’s Sounwave. Their creative partnership dates back more than 15 years, to the rapper’s earliest mixtape releases. “When you talk about Kendrick, you have to talk about Sounwave,” TDE president Terrence “Punch” Henderson told Rolling Stone in 2018. “Kendrick will half-state an idea in his head and Soundwave will finish the thought for him. He’s the glue to it all because even if he’s not making his own beat, he’s adding onto what Kendrick needs.” — L.P.
Kendrick Mentions Lil Wayne and The Super Bowl Controversy
Many thought Kendrick Lamar was the logical choice for the upcoming Super Bowl Halftime show. Kendrick is a chart-topping artist with a lengthy catalog. But some, such as Nicki Minaj and Birdman, felt like those bonafides are exactly why Lil Wayne should have been chosen for a hometown set at the New Orleans exhibition. Wayne expressed disappointment in not receiving the nod from his NFL-affiliated friend Jay-Z, even telling the crowd at his Lil Weezyana festival he was “robbed” of the moment. Kendrick reflected on the hysteria on “wacced out,” noting, “Used to bump Tha Carter III, I held my Rollie chain proud / Irony, I think my hard work let Lil Wayne down.” Kendrick has always been reverent of Wayne, even (drunkenly) pleading for him not to retire in 2016. But sometimes, idols become rivals. — A.G.
Kendrick Lamar Saw This Mariachi Singer at a Dodgers Game. Now, She's on 'GNX'
Kendrick Gets Groovy With Eclectic References
In many ways, GNX is a hodgepodge of sentiments, ideas, and sounds, especially through a pretty refreshing roster of samples and interpolations. “Squabble Up” samples Debbie Deb’s 1980s freestyle classic “When I Hear Music” and “The Heart Pt.” seems to pull from“The Heart Pt. 6” also boasts a a sweet sample of “Use Your Heart” by SWV, the girl group that reached its heights in the 1990s – and since that song samples “If It Don’t Turn You On (You Oughta Leave It Alone)” by 1970s funk collective B.T. Express, Kendrick’s does too. On “Luther,” vocals from the late R&B legend Luther Vandross take center stage, pulled from his feature on Cherl Lynn’s 1982 version of “If This World Were Mine,” a cover of a song by Marvin Gaye and Tammy Terrell. — M.C.
Los Angeles’ Música Mexicana Scene Makes an Appearance
GNX opens with the haunting vocals of mariachi singer Deyra Barrera, a Los Angeles-based mariachi singer, on “Wacced Out Murals.” When reached by Rolling Stone, Barrera was still in shock that her vocals made it on the album, including on Tupac tribute “Reincarnated” and album closer “Gloria.” “My skin gets goosebumps because all of this happened so quickly for me,” she said. “It’s magical. I want to cry.” Lamar has never shied away from honoring Los Angeles’ Mexican roots, including in videos for “Not Like Us” and “Family Matters,” where he posed in a mariachi sombrero. — T.M.
Kendrick and Mustard Team Up For More Magic
When Kendrick Lamar dropped “Not Like Us,” the chemistry between K Dot and Mustard, who produced the track, was powerful enough to force something of a realignment in the world order. On GNX stand-outs “Hey Now” and “TV Off” the two link up yet again and illustrate that they might very well make for a generational rapper and producer duo. Both songs highlight the pair’s synergy. Mustard’s production, with its bouncy, swinging bass offers Kendrick the perfect pocket to run wild in. “TV Off,” in particular has the feeling of a spiritual sequel to”Not Like Us,” and possibly with the same staying power. – J.I.
Kendrick Gets “Reincarnated” as Tupac tribute
Kendrick has always revered Tupac as one of his favorite artists and deepest influences. He had a “conversation” with him on 2015’s “Mortal Man,” and on GNX he decided to channel his musical presence on “Reincarnated,” a song where Kendrick figuratively explores his past lives as a guitar player and a Chit’lin circuit singer. The track is an interpolation of Tupac’s “Made Niggaz,” a Johnny J-produced single from the Gang Related soundtrack that’s one of the final songs the late rap icon intentionally recorded to release. The track feels specifically like an homage to 1996 Tupac, when he dropped the Makaveli album, a spirituality-tinged, existentialist epic that pushed thematic boundaries.
Tupac’s music from that period was defined by an anger and lust for vengeance that permeated through his delivery. His mic presence was always powerful, but in 1996, consumed by a sense of betrayal from former friends, he sounded downright vitriolic. Kendrick expertly emulates that energy from the first bars of “Reincarnated.” In the first two verses, he spookily mirrors Pac’s see-saw of low and high tones, double-time cadences, and emphasis on internal rhyme that lets him stretch out on the end rhyme (“gifted as a musician I played guitar on a grand level”). So many artists over the years have vied to channel their interpretation of Pac’s legacy in back-against-the-wall beef moments, but Kendrick decided to embody him by just being a hell of a rapper. So much for “Tupac wasn’t a lyricist.”
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Ranking Kendrick Lamar’s Albums
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Ranking Kendrick Lamar’s albums is no simple task. Each release feels like a distinct chapter in an artist’s career defined by constant reinvention. Where many artists settle into a formula, Kendrick has spent his career refusing to repeat himself, each album bringing a new style, energy, and perspective.
Hailing from Compton, California, Kendrick began his music career as a teenager under the name K-Dot, catching local attention with his 2004 mixtape, Youngest Head N**a in Charge (Hub City Threat: Minor of the Year). This early buzz eventually led to his signing with Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE). Over time, Kendrick’s ability to tell stories and create vivid worlds elevated him into one of Hip Hop’s most celebrated artists. His major-label debut, good kid, m.A.A.d city (2012), was a breakout moment that put him in the spotlight, while 2015’s To Pimp a Butterfly redefined his position in the culture, establishing him as a force far beyond rap.
Kendrick’s discography includes an EP (Kendrick Lamar EP, 2009), five mixtapes, a compilation album (Untitled Unmastered, 2016), and six studio albums: Section.80 (2011), good kid, m.A.A.d city (2012), To Pimp a Butterfly (2015), DAMN. (2017), Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers (2022), and GNX (2024). Each project feels like a reflection of its time, pulling from the sounds and moods of the moment while staying uniquely his own.
From the soulful reflections of To Pimp a Butterfly to the minimalist intensity of DAMN. and the sprawling, unpredictable nature of Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, Kendrick’s catalog showcases his ability to adapt without ever losing the weight of his voice. Ranking these albums means comparing not only their sound but the emotions, memories, and ideas they evoke. Each one offers something different—and every fan has their own answer to which one hits hardest.
Ranking Kendrick Lamar's Albums
6. Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers (2022)
Kendrick Lamar’s fifth studio album, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, was one of the most anticipated releases in years, arriving after a five-year hiatus following DAMN.. While DAMN. earned its share of praise, it didn’t reach the heights of Kendrick’s masterworks good kid, m.A.A.d city (2012) and To Pimp A Butterfly (2015). With Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, Kendrick once again ventures into new territory, crafting a deeply introspective and challenging record that solidifies his reputation as one of Hip Hop’s most creative and complex artists.
This album dives headfirst into Kendrick’s internal world, exploring his fears, regrets, and contradictions with striking honesty. Where good kid, m.A.A.d city painted a vivid portrait of his Compton upbringing and To Pimp A Butterfly tackled collective struggles and systemic issues, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers turns inward. The result is raw and unfiltered, a snapshot of a man grappling with his identity in real-time. Kendrick doesn’t shy away from difficult truths or messy emotions, which gives the album a confessional quality.
The album’s double-disc structure complements its duality, oscillating between calm reflection and sharp tension. Themes of healing, generational trauma, and moral conflict run throughout, but they aren’t tied up neatly. Instead, the contradictions remain unresolved, adding to the album’s complexity. Sonically, the production is sharp and precise, often stripped back to let Kendrick’s voice and words take center stage. It’s not always easy to digest, but that seems to be the point.
However, for all its ambition and honesty, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers struggles with replay value. Its weighty themes and emotionally dense content make it a rewarding listen, but it’s not an album you’ll find yourself reaching for repeatedly. Compared to Kendrick’s other works, which often balance depth with accessibility, this one feels more like a reflective experience than a go-to listen. While it deserves credit for its daring approach, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers ultimately ranks sixth on this list. Its intricate, layered nature makes it an important part of Kendrick’s discography, but it lacks the staying power of his best work. | 7/10
5. GNX (2024)
Kendrick Lamar’s 2024 surprise album, GNX, landed like a curveball, surprising fans and critics alike. Known for intricate storytelling and heavy conceptual themes, Kendrick flips the script here with a looser, more visceral project. The energy is pure West Coast—a soundtrack for blaring from car speakers on a hot LA afternoon. While unmistakably Kendrick, with clever wordplay, hard-hitting beats, and moments of brilliance, GNX lacks the ambition of masterpieces like To Pimp a Butterfly or Good Kid, M.A.A.D City.
GNX isn’t as groundbreaking; it’s a digestible, fun collection of tracks that reflect Kendrick’s current mindset—mature, reflective, and less concerned with perfection. It’s not an album that redefines the genre or pushes a grand cultural agenda, but it doesn’t try to be.
The album opens strong with “wacced out murals,” where Kendrick’s fiery delivery takes aim at the industry and some of his idols over pounding drums and ominous strings. Tracks like “reincarnated” stand out for their introspection, with Kendrick weaving imagined past lives into a soulful meditation on history and identity. Meanwhile, songs like “gloria” and “luther” add depth, and SZA’s smooth vocals add texture in her two standout features. However, not all experiments land—tracks like “gnx” (featuring LA newcomers) and “dodger blue” falter under weak production, a recurring issue throughout the album.
While GNX lacks the cohesion of Kendrick’s earlier projects, its looseness offers charm. It feels less like a masterpiece and more like a mixtape—a snapshot of where Kendrick is now. Though uneven, it’s still proof that even on an off day, Kendrick remains miles ahead of most peers. | 7.5/10
4. Kendrick Lamar - DAMN. (2017)
For us, DAMN marked a noticeable dip in Kendrick Lamar’s streak of greatness following two back-to-back classics. While it’s not a bad album by any means, the overwhelming praise it received upon release felt disproportionate. The reaction to DAMN—critics and fans alike hailing it as an “instant classic”—felt more like a reflex than a true evaluation. Kendrick’s reputation often makes him nearly immune to criticism, much like the reverence surrounding legends like 2Pac and Biggie. Suggesting DAMN falls short of Kendrick’s best work is almost guaranteed to spark backlash. But the truth is, DAMN isn’t flawless, nor does it measure up to good kid, m.A.A.d city or To Pimp a Butterfly. It’s an okay album, but not extraordinary.
Where To Pimp a Butterfly was a sprawling, layered exploration of social and political struggles through the lens of Black music history, and good kid, m.A.A.d city told a cohesive coming-of-age story steeped in the streets of Compton, DAMN feels less focused. It lacks a clear thematic thread to tie everything together. Instead, it leans into a looser, more fragmented structure. Some tracks, like “DNA” and “DUCKWORTH,” stand out with their sharp production and powerful energy. “DNA” is hard-hitting and raw, while “DUCKWORTH” tells an intricate story, carried by vivid lyricism and shifting beats. These moments remind you of Kendrick’s skill and vision. But elsewhere, the album falters. Tracks like “LOVE” drift toward a more commercial sound, veering into territory that doesn’t feel natural for Kendrick.
It’s not that DAMN doesn’t have its highlights—it does. The production, at times, is striking, and there are flashes of Kendrick’s lyrical brilliance. But it’s hard to ignore how disjointed the album feels compared to his earlier work. Even its biggest accolades, like the Pulitzer Prize, felt misdirected. The Pulitzer board seemed to have missed the moment for To Pimp a Butterfly and retroactively awarded Kendrick’s follow-up instead, an odd recognition for an album that doesn’t carry the same weight or scope.
Ultimately, DAMN is fine. It has its strengths, but it doesn’t feel as purposeful or cohesive as Kendrick’s best projects. It’s a solid album, but far from the masterpiece it was immediately labeled to be. Compared to other albums in his catalog—and even other Hip Hop albums released in 2017—it simply doesn’t hold the same lasting power. | 7.5/10
3. Kendrick Lamar - Section.80 (2011)
Kendrick Lamar’s official debut album, Section.80, arrived after a string of mixtapes that had already earned him attention. With 16 tracks spanning an hour, the project feels purposeful and grounded. While it would take another year for Kendrick to break into the mainstream with good kid, m.A.A.d city, this album shows his potential in full force. Musically, Section.80 leans toward a more traditional Hip Hop sound than the experimental styles Kendrick would explore later. The production is thoughtful, pairing well with his relaxed delivery and introspective lyricism, creating a listening experience that’s engaging, though often heavy in tone.
There’s a rawness here that makes the album feel personal. Songs like “Keisha’s Song,” “Ronald Reagan Era,” “Poe Man’s Dreams (His Vice),” and “Hol’ Up” stand out with their vivid storytelling and sharp writing. These tracks dig deep into topics like systemic struggles, personal vices, and the environment Kendrick grew up in. The mood of the album is reflective and sometimes dark, but it’s balanced by moments of sharp wit and charisma. While not every track hits the same mark—“Blow My High” feels less impactful than the rest—it doesn’t take away from the strength of the album as a whole.
Section.80 may not have launched Kendrick into the spotlight, but it laid a strong foundation for everything that came after. It’s an album that rewards careful listening, offering substance and depth that lingers long after it ends. | 8/10
2. Kendrick Lamar - good kid, m.A.A.d. city (2012)
In 2012, Kendrick Lamar released good kid, m.A.A.d city, his second album and major-label debut, and it instantly became a defining moment for Hip Hop. From the first listen, it was clear this project was different—an intricate, immersive dive into Lamar’s teenage years in Compton, surrounded by gang violence, peer pressure, and the struggles of his community. Framed as “a short film by Kendrick Lamar,” the album is less a collection of songs and more an unfolding narrative, piecing together moments of triumph, regret, and survival.
Each track contributes to the story, and while songs like “Backseat Freestyle” and “Swimming Pools (Drank)” might feel larger-than-life on their own, they’re even more powerful in the context of the album. The balance between standalone appeal and storytelling depth is a rare achievement. Every track pulls listeners deeper into the emotions and dilemmas Kendrick faced growing up—whether it’s the haunting introspection of “Sing About Me, I’m Dying of Thirst” or the explosive energy of “m.A.A.d city” with MC Eiht.
The production plays a crucial role in shaping the album’s mood. A mix of ominous beats, atmospheric melodies, and sharp transitions mirrors the tension and chaos of the stories Kendrick tells. Tracks like “Money Trees,” featuring Jay Rock, and the hometown anthem “Compton” with Dr. Dre, bring different textures to the album, from smooth and reflective to celebratory. These shifts in tone keep the listener engaged while staying true to the narrative arc.
Even the visuals—the album cover, the photographs inside—are an extension of the story. The iconic cover art, featuring a family photo blurred and worn, feels as personal as the music itself, grounding the album in the reality Kendrick describes—another reminder that this is a deeply personal reflection of life as a young Black man in Compton.
good kid, m.A.A.d city reveals more with every listen. Its layered storytelling, lyrical depth, and emotionally charged themes demand patience and attention, inviting listeners to peel back the layers over time. It’s an album rooted in specific experiences but broad enough to resonate far beyond them. With this release, Kendrick not only proved himself as a master of his craft but also created a body of work that continues to hold weight over a decade later. This is like a time capsule, a vivid portrait of a place, a moment, and a young man finding his way through it all. | 9.5/10
1. Kendrick Lamar - To Pimp A Butterfly (2015)
What more can be said about To Pimp A Butterfly that hasn’t been said a million times already? This is a monumental album, the kind of work that only comes along once in a generation. Comparisons to Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On or Public Enemy’s It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back aren’t exaggerations—they’re earned. This is an opus that exists on a scale few others have ever reached.
With good kid, m.A.A.d city, Kendrick Lamar had already given the world a near-perfect album. But To Pimp A Butterfly takes that foundation and builds something far more expansive. It’s introspective yet outward-facing, personal but unflinchingly political, raw and unpolished in its truths while executed with the precision of an orchestra. Musically, it’s staggering. Live instrumentation, swirling jazz-funk, deep-pocket grooves, and elements of neo-soul all flow together, creating a sound that feels like the essence of Black musical history distilled into 79 minutes. Every note feels deliberate, every arrangement layered with meaning.
This isn’t an album you throw on in the background or casually skim through. It demands attention. There’s a weight to it—a gravity that forces you to sit with its truths and grapple with its contradictions. Kendrick moves between moments of self-doubt, anger, pride, and despair, his words weaving a narrative that feels both deeply personal and universal. And the guest appearances don’t distract from his vision; they enhance it, creating a larger tapestry of voices and perspectives.
To Pimp A Butterfly is dense and challenging, but it’s also rewarding. It’s not designed for easy consumption, and that’s part of its brilliance. By refusing to compromise its vision, Kendrick delivered something timeless—music that will be revisited and reinterpreted for decades to come. Few albums ever achieve this level of ambition and execution, let alone succeed at both.
If there’s one album from the 2010s that will be studied, dissected, and remembered far into the future, it’s To Pimp A Butterfly. This is more than just a piece of music; it’s a towering work of art. | 9.5/10
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What’s the hype with him, I don’t get it. His voice is annoying and the beats are lazy and flat; only the 2pac one is good, this new west coast fans don’t get classic music, I feel people see his name and act like it’s dope. I heard it all the way through and deleted it straight away. People say I’m stuck in the old days but music was better facts
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Snoopy badazz aint like the album... ;D ::)
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Snoopy badazz aint like the album... ;D ::)
https://www.instagram.com/p/DCwHSdbuirP/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
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https://www.instagram.com/p/DCwHSdbuirP/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
Snoop just signed him to death row today :)
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Snoop just signed him to death row today :)
he been signed to death row for a minute now
snoop prolly usin him to diss kendrick while stayin neutral
:lulz:
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Snoopy badazz what a creative name. Is he related to doggystyllleeeeeeeeeeeeee?
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Skimmed through it. His voice annoys me so much I just CAN'T!
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Wacced Out Murals is an insane intro track. The subtle bassline switch is dope. K Dot flowing like water on it
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Kendrick Lamar
GNX
℗ 2024 pgLang, under license to Interscope Records
12 Songs, 44 minutes
(https://is1-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Music211/v4/50/c2/cc/50c2cc95-3658-9417-0d4b-831abde44ba1/24UM1IM28978.rgb.jpg/175x175bb.webp)
1. wacced out murals
Produced By M-Tech, Jack Antonoff, Dahi, franO, Sounwave, Craig Balmoris & Tyler Mehlenbacher
2. squabble up
Produced By Kendrick Lamar, M-Tech, Jack Antonoff, Bridgeway & Sounwave
Contains a sample of "When I Hear Music", as written and performed by Debbie Deb.
3. luther (feat. SZA)
Produced By Sounwave, Rose Lilah, M-Tech, Kamasi Washington, Jack Antonoff & Bridgeway
Contains a sample of "If This World Were Mine", written by Marvin Gaye, as performed by Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn.
4. man at the garden
Produced By M-Tech, Jack Antonoff, Sounwave, Craig Balmoris & Tyler Mehlenbacher
5. hey now (feat. Dody6)
Produced By Mustard, Jack Antonoff & Sounwave
6. reincarnated
Produced By Kendrick Lamar, M-Tech, Jack Antonoff, Sounwave & Noah Ehler
Contains a sample of "Made Niggaz", written and performed by Tupac Shakur featuring Outlawz.
7. tv off (feat. Gunplay)
Produced By Sounwave, Sean Momberger, Mustard, Kamasi Washington & Jack Antonoff
8. dodger blue (feat. Wallie the Sensei, Roddy Rich & Siete7x)
Produced By Jack Antonoff, Tim Maxey, Terrace Martin, Tane Runo & Sounwave
9. peekaboo (feat. AzChilke & Dody6)
Produced By Sounwave, Sean Momberger & Bridgeway
10. heart pt. 6
Produced By JuJu, M-Tech, Jack Antonoff & Sounwave
Contains a sample of "Use Your Heart", written by Chad Hugo and Pharrell Williams, as performed by SWV.
11. gnx (feat. Hitta J3, YoungThread & Peysoh)
Produced By Rascal, Jack Antonoff, Sounwave, Tim Maxey and KENNY & BILLY
12. gloria (feat. SZA)
Produced By Jack Antonoff, Sounwave & Deats
Album mixed by Oli Jacobs.
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I don’t get it…Most of Kendrick’s music is zzzzzzzzzzz in a baby voice
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Snoopy badazz what a creative name. Is he related to doggystyllleeeeeeeeeeeeee?
Dunno, but both want to suck Snoop dogg 4 so.
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Fagott Lamar album of the Year ??? i dont think so [LL Cool J Voice]
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Snoop dont want smoke, Wayne does (if disturbed again) and Nas salutes...
Nas salutes Kendrick Lamar for not letting the party die on ‘GNX’
(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS4ILYHuqM0Ieb6UYo2EK814-AOQzYa3Lhakw&s)
Nas says that K. Dot is “keeping the essence of this s**t alive and at the forefront” following the release of his new project ‘GNX.’
11.23.2024
Kendrick Lamar said that he wanted to “watch the party die,” but the release of GNX and the flood of reactions that have followed are proof that nothing of the sort is happening. Instead, the vested interests in what he will put on wax next have launched K. Dot back to the forefront of rap discourses.
According to Nas, his West Coast contemporary is making all of the right moves. On Saturday (Nov. 23), just 24 hours since the new LP dropped, he gave the “Not Like Us” hitmaker praise for what he is doing for Hip Hop. “Always inspired by my brother KL. Keeping the essence of this s**t alive and at the forefront. Salute King!” he wrote in an Instagram post. In the comments, a follower shared that “Everybody wants to hate on Kendrick Lamar, but he’s actually one of the greatest rappers of all time, and this album was definitely a classic.”
Lamar’s supporters have been praising the creative array of lyricism and witty vengeance displayed across the project's 12 tracks. Among them that has generated a host of hot takes is “wacced out murals,” where Lamar name-dropped Snoop Dogg, Nas and Lil Wayne.
Compton’s own rapped, “Used to bump Tha Carter III, I held my Rollie chain proud/ Irony, I think my hard work let Lil Wayne down/ Whatever, though, call me crazy, everybody questionable/ Turn me to an Eskimo, I drew the line and decimals/ Snoop posted ‘Taylor Made,’ I prayed it was the edibles/ I couldn’t believe it, it was only right for me to let it go/ Won the Super Bowl and Nas the only one congratulate me/ All these n**gas agitated, I'm just glad they showin' they faces/ Quite frankly, plenty artist, but they outdated.”
On Friday (Nov. 22), Snoop reshared a clip of him declaring the “Poetic Justice” emcee the new king of the West Coast, as well as a tweet joking that it was in fact the edibles that inspired him to post Drake’s diss record “Taylor Made,” that was aimed at Lamar this summer. The two men traded jabs in a series of tracks that were celebrated by Hip Hop veterans and fans who experienced the ‘90s era of rap beefs.
Lil Wayne also addressed the fanfare of Lamar addressing the reactions to him being tapped to headline the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show — a gig that many hoped Wayne would get since the game is hosted in New Orleans. Tunechi warned, “Let’s not take kindness for weakness. Let this giant sleep. I beg [you] all. No one really wants destruction, not even me, but I shall destroy if disturbed.”
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5 Takeaways From Kendrick Lamar’s Surprise New Album GNX
The new project is heavy on the club slappers and production from… Jack Antonoff?
November 22, 2024
In 2024, Kendrick Lamar became the master of the anti-rollout: Since the start of the year, he’s turned 12 words’ worth of X posts and a couple of tracks accompanied by still images to Instagram into an era-defining rap beef, a number-one single, and a booking to perform at the Super Bowl LIX halftime show, in New Orleans. Between his guest appearance on Future and Metro Boomin’s “Like That” and his chart-topping victory lap “Not Like Us,” Kendrick seized the country’s attention by lobbing diss after diss at its most commercially dominant rap star, not quite deposing Drake, but certainly leaving a permanent stain on his image, accusing him of sex trafficking, pedophilia, and cultural colonization.
The beef simmered, after Drake’s half-hearted and occasionally confusing response “The Heart Part 6,” as Kendrick made his moves strategically, showing out for his Pop Out concert, “Not Like Us” video, and Super Bowl announcement. This morning, however, Kendrick uploaded a cryptic, minutelong snippet titled “GNX” to YouTube, and, even more unexpectedly, dropped his entire sixth studio album just before noon. The new LP is more accessible than 2022’s complicated Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers, harkening back to the pop of 2017’s DAMN. and dabbling in bouncy West Coast club slappers and slick synth-pop across a relatively tidy 45-minute experience. Further exploring the nervy, Drakeo the Ruler-inspired flow that made the punchlines on “Not Like Us” so memorable, he’s also brought a new generation of SoCal upstarts along for the ride, tapping local emcees like AzChike, Peysoh, and YoungThreat for collaborations. Here are five takeaways that stood out while spinning GNX the first few times.
More Stocks in Stock
After ushering in summer 2024 with an all-out offensive against the OVO camp, Kendrick spares Drake the ire (or satisfaction) of another name-drop on GNX, but that doesn’t mean he’s taken a pacifist turn. With opener “Wacced Out Murals,” he comes out swinging, taking quick shots at those who’ve aligned with the opposing side. Spitting venom over sirens and staccato strings, Kendrick puts his former heroes in the crosshairs, reflecting on the disappointment Lil Wayne expressed when Kendrick was selected to play the Super Bowl halftime show in Weezy’s hometown, and calling out Snoop Dogg for posting Drake’s AI-assisted “Taylor Made” diss to Instagram upon release. GNX may not be a major mobilization in the war between Aubrey’s Angels and TDE’s disciples, but there’s just enough pot-stirring to fuel discourse through Thanksgiving.
Getting Hyphy
Despite the single’s litany of quotable punchlines, it was arguably Mustard’s production on “Not Like Us,” which arranged a stuttering Monk Higgins sample over railgun kick drums, that kept audiences hitting replay well beyond its release date. His work set the tone for the menacing hyphy sound that dominates much of GNX. Mustard was enlisted to produce two tracks on the record, “Hey Now” and “TV Off,” and the club-ready cuts “Squabble Up” and “Peekaboo” were clearly produced with “Not Like Us” in mind. (“Squabble Up,” of course was already previewed in the “Not Like Us” video.) There’s still plenty of room for quiet contemplation on GNX, but there’s no shortage of party playlist fodder either.
Antonoff on the Beat
Fans may have been surprised to find out that Jack Antonoff was listed as a co-producer of Kendrick’s “6:16 in LA” diss in May, but the credit makes much more sense now. Along with Top Dawg Entertainment’s in-house producer Sounwave, the pop super-producer worked on almost all of GNX’s tracks, likely contributing to the album’s lush timbres, orchestral flourishes and synth-heavy nostalgia fuel. Kendrick’s rumored Taylor Swift collaboration may not have materialized on GNX, but her right-hand man’s fingerprints are all over the new release.
Heart Pt. 6 (Kendrick’s Version)
With “Heart Pt. 6,” Kendrick continues the long-running biographical series that he’s been updating since 2010, ignoring Drake’s own, unauthorized entry of the same title, which served as a de facto white flag ending the spring’s diss war. This time around, Kendrick details his split with TDE to form his own creative communications company, pgLang. Former labelmates Ab-Soul, Jay Rock, and Schoolboy Q appear as characters in Kendrick’s recollections of early recording sessions, which he says taught him the skills he needed to forge his own path: “I guess my motivation was the yearnin’ for independence,” he raps. “Now it’s about Kendrick, I wanna evolve, place my skillset as a Black exec.”
A Few Vicious Bars
“I put a square on his back like I’m Jack Dorsey” (“Hey Now”)
“How many heads I gotta take to level my aesthetics?/Hurry up and get your muscle up, we out the plyometric” (“TV Off”)
“Fuck a double entendre, I want y'all to feel this shit/Old soul, bitch, I probably built them pyramids” (“Wacced Out Murals”)
“How annoying, does it angers me to know the lames can speak/On the origins of the game I breathe? That’s insane to me” (“Man at the Garden”)
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People still complaining for Em's voice in Relapse, but when it comes to Kendrick's goofy voice in his last albums it's all ok. They say this is album of the year. Just because he comes from the west!
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People still complaining for Em's voice in Relapse, but when it comes to Kendrick's goofy voice in his last albums it's all ok. They say this is album of the year. Just because he comes from the west!
both wack
most people who complain about Kendrick, its due to his voice...including me
Em on Relapse just used goofy Scottish accents to somehow portray a serial killer
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People still complaining for Em's voice in Relapse, but when it comes to Kendrick's goofy voice in his last albums it's all ok. They say this is album of the year. Just because he comes from the west!
I’ve alwAmy’s hated when Kendrick goes overboard with the voices BUT he settled down on GNX and it makes for a great listen IMO. This album is such a fun listen, on some 90s shit
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I dont know. Was bumping yesterday a lot, today finde out it is boring, exepct squabble up. I got problem with this new music, nothing is a long distance lisiting. Same with eminems new shit. Plays a lot when its droped, right now not at all. Same with snoops a dres shit.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fuV4yQWdn_4
squabble up video
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You have to assume this album was done for a while already. To drop it the same day as Cube. Did Kendrick not appreciate Cube’s lil I was Kendrick before Kendrick line?
As for the album it’s incredible.
Who was the guitarist Kendrick was talking about on verse 1 of reincarnated? Verse 2 seems to be about Billie Holiday.
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You have to assume this album was done for a while already. To drop it the same day as Cube. Did Kendrick not appreciate Cube’s lil I was Kendrick before Kendrick line?
As for the album it’s incredible.
Who was the guitarist Kendrick was talking about on verse 1 of reincarnated? Verse 2 seems to be about Billie Holiday.
Business is business. And Cube is not as relevant as Kendrick mainstream wise, plus Kendrick is on Interscope so this roll out is impacting Snoop n Dre's marketing more, they will need visuals at this point, because Kendrick took the spotlight
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This reminds me of gkmc and Xzibit- napalm dropping on the same day.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fuV4yQWdn_4
squabble up video
Alot of great references on there; Bloods, Soultrain, Ice-T, G Perico
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This reminds me of gkmc and Xzibit- napalm dropping on the same day.
word
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Video trash.
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I dont know. Was bumping yesterday a lot, today finde out it is boring, exepct squabble up. I got problem with this new music, nothing is a long distance lisiting. Same with eminems new shit. Plays a lot when its droped, right now not at all. Same with snoops a dres shit.
Is that a product of today's music, or just that people these days have short attention spans and have unlimited access to an unlimited supply of music at their fingertips? I remember in the mid 90's, you'd buy a CD, and that's all you had to listen to for months until something else came out, so you forced yourself to listen and like songs. There were so many songs i wasn't a huge fan of upon first few listens, but they grew on me over time. People these days aren't giving music a chance anymore. If it doesn't hit you after a couple listens, it's thrown in the recycle bin never to be listened to again.
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Is that a product of today's music, or just that people these days have short attention spans and have unlimited access to an unlimited supply of music at their fingertips? I remember in the mid 90's, you'd buy a CD, and that's all you had to listen to for months until something else came out, so you forced yourself to listen and like songs. There were so many songs i wasn't a huge fan of upon first few listens, but they grew on me over time. People these days aren't giving music a chance anymore. If it doesn't hit you after a couple listens, it's thrown in the recycle bin never to be listened to again.
very true
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he been signed to death row for a minute now
snoop prolly usin him to diss kendrick while stayin neutral
:lulz:
Snoopy is no longer with Death Row. I think he released a mixtape and a few singles there and has been advertising for his own label Killer Inc. for some time now. The logo looks like Death Row at first glance lol
Snoopy actually has some good shit tho. It's a pity that he's so bitter and burns so many bridges.
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Snoopy is no longer with Death Row. I think he released a mixtape and a few singles there and has been advertising for his own label Killer Inc. for some time now. The logo looks like Death Row at first glance lol
Snoopy actually has some good shit tho. It's a pity that he's so bitter and burns so many bridges. He actually has good material. It's a pity that he's so bitter and burns so many fuckin bridges
just because he releases stuff on his own label doesn’t mean he’s not with death row … you can still put out your own stuff independently while on a label
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Drake claims UMG and Spotify ‘artificially inflated’ Kendrick Lamar’s diss track Not Like Us
Feud escalates as rapper’s lawyers file petition alleging Universal Music Group and streaming giant conspired to make rival’s hit more successful
Tue 26 Nov 2024
Drake has launched legal action against Universal Music Group and Spotify, alleging they conspired to artificially inflate interest in Kendrick Lamar’s diss track about him, Not Like Us, while suppressing his own music.
In a petition filed to the New York supreme court on Monday, attorneys for Drake’s company Frozen Moments LLC accused UMG and the streaming service of having “launched a campaign to manipulate and saturate the streaming services and airwaves”, using various tactics to make Lamar’s song more popular.
“UMG … conspired with and paid currently unknown parties to use ‘bots’ to artificially inflate the spread of Not Like Us and deceive consumers into believing the song was more popular than it was in reality,” Drake’s lawyers write.
The petition also alleges that UMG paid influencers to promote Not Like Us on social media and set up pay-to-play agreements with radio stations.
A spokesperson for UMG told the Guardian: “The suggestion that UMG would do anything to undermine any of its artists is offensive and untrue. We employ the highest ethical practices in our marketing and promotional campaigns. No amount of contrived and absurd legal arguments in this pre-action submission can mask the fact that fans choose the music they want to hear.” Spotify declined to comment.
Both Drake and Lamar have been associated with UMG for their entire careers: Drake via Republic Records and Lamar via Interscope. The company owns both labels.
The petition is not a full lawsuit but a procedure under New York law that allows Drake’s attorneys to ask the court to order UMG and Spotify to preserve all relevant documents and information, pending a lawsuit.
But it is an extraordinary step in an escalating battle between the two rappers, which began as an exchange of diss tracks. In songs including Euphoria, Meet the Grahams and Not Like Us, Lamar accused Drake of having sexual relationships with underage girls, as well as fathering secret children. In response, Drake released tracks including Family Matters and The Heart Part 6, which accused Lamar of domestic abuse and infidelity, criticised his collaboration with Taylor Swift and mocked his height. Both Drake and Lamar have always denied any wrongdoing.
Drake’s petition alleges that UMG reduced the licensing rates it charges Spotify in exchange for the streamer recommending Lamar’s track to its users even when they searched for unrelated songs or artists. The petition also claims that UMG paid Apple to make its digital assistant Siri “purposely misdirect” users who asked to listen to Drake’s songs to instead stream Not Like Us.
The petition also alleges that UMG’s “scheme” lead to Not Like Us being streamed 900m times, making it the most-streamed diss track in Spotify history. The track holds Spotify records for biggest single-day streams for a hip-hop song (12.8m) and the most song streams in a week by a rapper (81.2m).
Drake’s attorneys allege that “UMG’s schemes … were motivated, at least in part, by the desire of executives at Interscope to maximize their own profits”, and that the success of Not Like Us had led to a boost in streaming of Lamar’s back catalogue, which financially benefited UMG.
The petition claims Drake “repeatedly sought to engage UMG in discussions to resolve the ongoing harm he has suffered as a result of UMG’s actions” but claims that the music giant has “no interest in taking responsibility for its misconduct” and instead “pointed the finger” at Lamar, directing Drake to sue the rapper and not UMG.
Drake’s attorneys claim they had “received information that UMG has been taking steps in an apparent effort to conceal its schemes, including, but not limited to, by terminating employees associated with or perceived as having loyalty to Drake”.
They allege UMG violated the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act – a federal statute widely known as “Rico”, which is often used in criminal cases against organised crime – as well as deceptive business practices and false advertising.
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after not like us video kendrick delivered the 2d best video of the year, squabble up!
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You have to assume this album was done for a while already. To drop it the same day as Cube. Did Kendrick not appreciate Cube’s lil I was Kendrick before Kendrick line?
hahahah... good catch bro.
also kendrick said i'm new pac after pac.
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Is that a product of today's music, or just that people these days have short attention spans and have unlimited access to an unlimited supply of music at their fingertips? I remember in the mid 90's, you'd buy a CD, and that's all you had to listen to for months until something else came out, so you forced yourself to listen and like songs. There were so many songs i wasn't a huge fan of upon first few listens, but they grew on me over time. People these days aren't giving music a chance anymore. If it doesn't hit you after a couple listens, it's thrown in the recycle bin never to be listened to again.
Maybe is that.
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Maybe is that.
It’s mainly that, and also the quality usually lacks over an entire album. But I always try to really sit with albums…but it’s hard with having access to so much shit.
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just because he releases stuff on his own label doesn’t mean he’s not with death row … you can still put out your own stuff independently while on a label
But he was dropped again shortly after being signed. Snoopy then complained that it was Daz's fault. Whatever, lol. He is definitely no longer with Death Row for a long time
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But he was dropped again shortly after being signed. Snoopy then complained that it was Daz's fault. Whatever, lol. He is definitely no longer with Death Row for a long time
interesting
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after not like us video kendrick delivered the 2d best video of the year, squabble up!
I liked the little ohmage to Nate Dogg with his G Funk Classics CD spinning in the background.
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I liked the little ohmage to Nate Dogg with his G Funk Classics CD spinning in the background.
and the ice t power tribute! 8) 8)
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i loved how he used a methapor by talking to his pen in "Gloria"
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Agree , this is creative ... tech N9ne did this on anghellic with my worst enemy , peep it if u haven't . Dopeness and good call to attention here
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checkn right now finally!
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Pre-ordered the cd.
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This album BUMPS; a nice mixture of that new west sound combined with a touch of 90s west coast and r&b and some classic soul l. Like DJ He’d said, this sound gonna dominate the next four years.
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https://www.amazon.com/GNX-Kendrick-Lamar/dp/B0DP1H85C6/
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Pre order for march?!?!?!?!
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Pre order for march?!?!?!?!
Bro it was a surprise album. Even if they start the process for pressing cds vinyl etc it usually takes a couple months if not longer
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Bro it was a surprise album. Even if they start the process for pressing cds vinyl etc it usually takes a couple months if not longer
yup
they literally completed the album right when it came out
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Bro it was a surprise album. Even if they start the process for pressing cds vinyl etc it usually takes a couple months if not longer
okay...
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yup
they literally completed the album right when it came out
THiS definitely makes it seem like he has a different type of album on deck. What you think?
And I bet I’ll enjoy GNX more than a Mr Morale type album part 2
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THiS definitely makes it seem like he has a different type of album on deck. What you think?
And I bet I’ll enjoy GNX more than a Mr Morale type album part 2
they already confirmed that
this is just a prelude to the big album he’s planning
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Dope album, been playing it heavily for two days now.
Did not check for Mr Morale, did not like the few I heard but this one flows very well and stick melodies in your head.
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they already confirmed that
this is just a prelude to the big album he’s planning
Who confirmed that? It’s all speculation unless I missed something
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Who confirmed that? It’s all speculation unless I missed something
No official confirmation, just rumors at this point.
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oh wait, i want supposed to say anything?
:hubie:
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oh wait, i want supposed to say anything?
:hubie:
So you got the insider info hey?
A few in his circle alluding to more to come like a deluxe or another album but nothing confirmed at all…but sure hope he drops more shit like GNX
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So you got the insider info hey?
A few in his circle alluding to more to come like a deluxe or another album but nothing confirmed at all…but sure hope he drops more shit like GNX
:shittedon:
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:shittedon:
Cool man.
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soon there will be a second album coming.
music video refers to many double cd albums like nate dogg's, isaac haayes'...
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At least the beat on Squabble up is very dope .. The 1st album put aside , Kendrick is the Nas of the West , his ear for picking instrumentals is quite bad .
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At least the beat on Squabble up is very dope .. The 1st album put aside , Kendrick is the Nas of the West , his ear for picking instrumentals is quite bad .
I don't agree, To Pimp a Butterfly has some beautiful beats too. The other albums not so much.
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At least the beat on Squabble up is very dope .. The 1st album put aside , Kendrick is the Nas of the West , his ear for picking instrumentals is quite bad .
I’m diggin all the beats in this one except for maybe GNX, but I’m lovin all the raps on that one
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I’m diggin all the beats in this one except for maybe GNX, but I’m lovin all the raps on that one
the GNX beat reminds me of a 2Pac and Outlawz beat from Hurt-M-Badd. Very stripped down but still cool.
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well i like schoolboy q and ab-soul albums better...
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Just listened to the album from start to the bottom. (for the twentieth time... ;D)
If you like K-Dot or not, all I can say is: Album SLAPSSSS. 8)
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All the songs are dope! 8) 8) 8)
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The album is on repeat for me!
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This album fits in my that 90s vein of being a front to back with no skips at all; consistent yet varied vibe throughout. Not the best Kendrick album, but my favourite since Good Kid easily
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Fire album. As usual with K.Dot
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I read the Wikipedia about the album. Is it just PGLang licensing to Interscope? No Aftermath?
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I read the Wikipedia about the album. Is it just PGLang licensing to Interscope? No Aftermath?
Yeah, only a PGLang release this time, no Aftermath.
PGLang is a enterprise owned by him and Dave Free.
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Debuts Number 1 on Billboard 8)
https://www.xxlmag.com/kendrick-lamar-gnx-debuts-number-1-billboard-200-chart/
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This album has it all- posse cuts, soulful nighttime ridin music, bangers, introspective tracks…I’m gonna call it a classic
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It's still a concept album but it's more a collection of songs and I love that. His most musical since Damn IMO. Bored with the Christianity at the core of his work but the style still impeccable, appreciate stuff like "reincarnated" touching on spiritual ideas beyond normal American Christian stuff.
Agree it's a classic.
- T
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Sky is blue, grass is green, Dubcc shits on this album because it wasn't Snoop approved. No wonder this forum died two decades ago.
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Sky is blue, grass is green, Dubcc shits on this album because it wasn't Snoop approved. No wonder this forum died two decades ago.
i think most people here actually like it …. n if u not contributing u part of the problem
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K. Dot could be the best lyricist in the world, but I cannot sit through any of his albums. His high pitched whiny voice annoys the piss out of me after just a couple seconds. Am I alone in feeling this way?
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K. Dot could be the best lyricist in the world, but I cannot sit through any of his albums. His high pitched whiny voice annoys the piss out of me after just a couple seconds. Am I alone in feeling this way?
Yes! Me too!
I'd rather sit through Snoop's dated raps and desperate attempts at being relevant musically (vs. being an oldies act) than celebrate someone moving the west coast forward!
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K. Dot could be the best lyricist in the world, but I cannot sit through any of his albums. His high pitched whiny voice annoys the piss out of me after just a couple seconds. Am I alone in feeling this way?
You aren't at all - and it's not even hating. I like Kendrick and appreciate his craft but not the biggest fan of his voice.
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Yes! Me too!
I'd rather sit through Snoop's dated raps and desperate attempts at being relevant musically (vs. being an oldies act) than celebrate someone moving the west coast forward!
Where did I say anything about Snoop? Because for the record, I'm not feeling K. Dot or Snoop; K. Dot because of his voice and Snoop because of Dre's garbage production this far.
If you ask me who's moving forward and I say Xzibit.
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K. Dot could be the best lyricist in the world, but I cannot sit through any of his albums. His high pitched whiny voice annoys the piss out of me after just a couple seconds. Am I alone in feeling this way?
I definitely feel this way at times, but for whatever reason it doesn’t bother me on this album (for the first time since GKMC)
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This album is easily the best of 2024
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not that easily.
this year is strong like a muhfukka!
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not that easily.
this year is strong like a muhfukka!
yes there have been good albums, but GNX comes to crown Kendrick's year.
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The Force (LL) had it wrapped up for me but now GNX up there. It’s a front to back classic with no skips AND cultural relevance…just one of those hip hop moments in time. And nearly every song sounds like a hit. I’m even lovin the title track now.
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Regarding the comedian mentioned on 'Wacced Out Murals' -
TDE’s Punch and O'Shea Jackson Jr. Call Out Andrew Schulz for Saying He Could ‘F*ck’ Kendrick Lamar: ‘Weird'
Schulz threatened to "make love to" Kendrick Lamar in response to a line from 'GNX' that he perceived as a diss.
(https://images.complex.com/complex/image/upload/q_auto,c_fill,ar_1.78,w_1400,f_auto,g_auto/v1733426061/punch-oshea-jackson-andrew-schulz.jpg)
Got something to say?
TDE president Terrence "Punch" Henderson and actor O'Shea Jackson Jr. ripped Andrew Schulz after he responded to a perceived diss from Kendrick Lamar by threatening to sexually assault him.
On a recent episode of his podcast Flagrant, Schulz took issue with a lyric from K Dot's GNX opener "wacced out murals," on which he rapped, "Don't let no white comedian talk about no Black woman, that's law." In response, Schulz said that if he found himself in a cell with Kendrick, he would "make love to" Kendrick, and "the only thing that he could do is decide if it's consensual or not."
"Wait… wait… I know as a Black man who’s involved in Hip Hop Music, that we are a bit slow and don’t really understand sarcasm and humor… but did my guy say he want to sleep with Dot??" Punch tweeted in response.
O'Shea Jackson Jr., Ice Cube's son, also chimed in with a to-the-point response. "Weird ass n***a," he wrote.
On Flagrant, Schulz went on an extensive bit about how he would sexually assault Kendrick if they shared a prison cell.
"I would make love to him and there's nothing he could do about it," he said. "Just Kendrick Lamar, I would make love to him. And the only thing that he could do is decide if it's consensual or not. ... I would go so far as to say he couldn't stop most people on the planet from having sex with him. ... He's talking a lot of shit, but if it came down to it I could put him on my lap, I could feed him a bottle."
In the episode in question, Schulz also implied Kendrick only wants to "protect Black women" when it serves him, and suggested he was hypocritical because of some collaborations with alleged abusers, as well as his Spotify protest in 2018.
"Listen, rappers are telling comedians we need to be more respectful to women," Schulz said. "So we need to sit back and reflect. ... Listen, no one has respected women more through art than rappers. So I completely understand how a rapper could look at a comedian telling a joke and be like, 'Yo, you need to switch that shit up. How dare y'all keep saying your wives are annoying. Be more like us, bitches ain't nothing but hos and tricks, I beat my bitch with a stick.'"
Ebro in the Morning co-host Peter Rosenberg specifically called out the comedian's dismissive jokes about misogyny in rap.
"This take is SO BAD," he tweeted. "So PAINFULLY bad. Being friends with Charlamagne gave this guy a pass to give opinions on hip hop?? This era is unbelievable... Good thing no one gets checked anymore... and Schulz better pray that holds true."
In a follow-up tweet responding to someone who suggested Schulz was "pointing out hypocrisy" and Kendrick took a shot at him "over a nothing burger," Rosenberg compared the comedian to infamous conservative commentator Bill O'Reilly for dismissively labeling all hip-hop as misogynistic.
"Kendrick calls out Schulz for running down black women... more specifically the dudes who let it happen unchecked," he wrote. "Schulz responds by saying 'oh cuz rappers are so pro women.' Schulz is no different than Bill O'Reilly... acting like K Dot is 2 Live Crew... it is a nonsensical response and shows Schulz doesn't actually like or understand hip hop. Please hear me... not all white guys are built the same. For some of us Black culture is not wacky fodder or a means to an end."
Rosenberg also posted a video in which he took further aim at Schulz.
ok final words on that clown talking about Dot
Schulz suggested that the lyrics that potentially target him, and any Black people who enable his behavior, were likely in reference to racist jokes made about Black women in an earlier episode of Flagrant.
Shulz also posted a video of Mike Tyson and Hasbullah on his show, seemingly a reference to Lamar's height and his comment that he "could put" the rapper on "my lap."
Plenty of people on social media have also criticized Schulz for his response, labeling him racist and calling out the hypocrisy of a comedian who believes people are "too sensitive" and then proceeds to go on a ten-minute-plus rant about one line in a song that doesn't even directly mention him.
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Kendrick Lamar has now spent FIVE months at #1 on US Apple Music in 2024, becoming the ONLY artist to achieve this milestone this year.
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Easily best album of the Year.
and unfortunately it is not Missionary that changes my opinion.
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Much better than Missionary, KDot came hard 8)
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Kendrick is the best rapper alive right now no doubt. I dont pick a song and play it, i play whole album all the time without skips. Kendrick makes albums. He doesnt put bunch of songs together to release.
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unreleased song by K.Dot posted last week on his official YouTube channel before being taken down :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FmPeIGFGVB0
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Kendrick is the best rapper alive right now no doubt. I dont pick a song and play it, i play whole album all the time without skips. Kendrick makes albums. He doesnt put bunch of songs together to release.
No doubt