Album Review: Kendrick Lamar – GNX
Kendrick Lamar’s GNX is a masterclass in lyrical brilliance, blending sharp commentary with personal introspection. Kendrick has kept a relatively low profile since Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers in 2022. By dropping GNX unexpectedly, he reignites excitement around his name and reminds fans of his cultural relevance without relying on traditional marketing.
Across 12 meticulously crafted tracks, Lamar explores themes of legacy, identity, and redemption while experimenting with diverse production styles. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the album, song by song:
1. “wacced out murals”
The album begins with a striking opener that finds Kendrick addressing his position in hip-hop and subtle conflicts with other artists, possibly Drake. With lines like, “They whitewash the walls, but the cracks bleed through,” Kendrick uses double entendres to criticize the industry’s erasure of deeper narratives while reaffirming his enduring legacy. The production is minimalist, featuring eerie synths and a muffled kick drum, allowing his voice to command attention.
2. “squabble up”
On “squabble up,” Kendrick taps into the energy of West Coast rap with a playful yet combative tone. The hyphy-influenced beat drives a chaotic rhythm, and Kendrick switches between rapid-fire delivery and melodic hooks. He throws shade at artists chasing viral fame: “Clout don’t cook the meal, you’re still starving after the views.” The track is an ode to ambition, contrasting hollow competition with meaningful longevity.
3. “tv off”
Produced by DJ Mustard, “tv off” is a critique of modern media consumption. Over a pulsing bassline and handclap-heavy beat, Kendrick tackles how social narratives are shaped by screens: “Turn the TV off, the truth ain’t found in the frame.” His delivery is biting, and he layers multiple entendres in lines like “They stream my life but pause their growth,” referring to streaming platforms and the passive consumption of culture.
4. “hey now”
This bouncy, club-ready track uses upbeat production to mask a sharp critique of consumerism. Kendrick’s playful hook—“Hey now, what’s the price of your worth?”—is juxtaposed with verses addressing the hollow pursuit of material goods. The duality in his tone matches the double entendre of “price” as both monetary cost and personal value. The beat, another DJ Mustard creation, blends California’s hyphy roots with contemporary trap.
5. “reincarnated”
Sampling 2Pac’s “Made Niggaz,” this track serves as the thematic core of the album, addressing Kendrick’s evolution and survival in a ruthless industry. Over a soulful beat, Kendrick reflects on rebirth and accountability: “I died in the system they made, but came back as a lion untamed.” The sample underscores his connection to hip-hop’s legacy, while his introspection deepens the narrative.
6. “heart pt. 6”
The sixth installment in Kendrick’s Heart series explores his departure from Top Dawg Entertainment and the formation of pgLang. The production is lush, featuring strings and layered harmonies, creating a sense of grandeur. Kendrick’s lyrics are both nostalgic and forward-looking: “They built the house, I framed my dreams within their walls.” The track balances gratitude with the ambition to carve his own path.
7. “man at the garden”
This reflective piece places Kendrick in a metaphorical Garden of Gethsemane, wrestling with doubts and responsibilities. His delivery is raw, almost whispered at times, as he reveals his vulnerabilities. Lines like “I prayed for wisdom, but silence was the only answer” carry both emotional weight and spiritual depth. The minimalist production—a sparse piano melody with ambient effects—enhances the intimate tone.
8. “dodger blue”
Paying homage to his Los Angeles roots, “dodger blue” is both a celebration of hometown pride and a commentary on survival in the city’s harsh realities. The upbeat production, with horns and layered percussion, captures the vibrancy of L.A. Kendrick’s storytelling shines here, weaving personal anecdotes with broader reflections on identity: “They painted the city with struggle, but we wear the colors proud.”
9. “peekaboo”
“peekaboo” is playful on the surface, but Kendrick uses the nursery-rhyme motif to explore deception and hidden truths. Lines like “I see you hiding behind the smoke, but I got mirrors for the ghosts” demonstrate his lyrical dexterity. The beat features plucky strings and a bouncing bassline, adding a whimsical yet eerie vibe. It’s a standout track for its experimental nature.
10. “gnx”
The title track is an atmospheric exploration of Kendrick’s internal conflict and artistic identity. Over layered synths and a steady drumbeat, he raps, “Am I the voice or the echo? The savior or the lesson?” The track’s meditative tone contrasts with his fiery delivery, showcasing his ability to balance vulnerability with strength. The production builds gradually, mirroring his introspective journey.
11. “luther” (feat. SZA)
Featuring a sample from Luther Vandross’s “If This World Were Mine,” this duet with SZA is a soulful exploration of love and self-worth. Kendrick’s verses are tender yet self-critical, as he raps, “Love’s a currency I overspend but never own.” SZA’s smooth vocals provide a perfect counterbalance, creating a dreamy, nostalgic atmosphere that feels timeless.
12. “gloria”
The album closes with “gloria,” a celebration of artistic resilience and faith. Kendrick’s lyrics, “Glory’s a burden and a gift, carried by those unfit but willing,” encapsulate the complexities of his journey. The track’s gospel-inspired production features a choir and swelling strings, leaving listeners with a sense of closure and renewal. It’s a powerful and emotional finale.
Final Thoughts
Kendrick Lamar’s GNX is a layered, introspective project that showcases his lyrical genius and fearless experimentation. From sharp disses and social critiques to vulnerable reflections and hometown pride, the album offers a complete spectrum of his artistry. While not as sprawling as some of his previous works, GNX feels purposeful and deeply personal, cementing Kendrick’s role as one of hip-hop’s most essential voices.
