In an unexpected move, Kendrick Lamar has once again solidified his position as a rap legend with the surprise release of his sixth studio album, GNX.
Story Summary:
- Kendrick Lamar surprise-releases his sixth studio album, GNX, breaking away from his former labels.
- Featuring uncredited vocals from SZA and productions by Jack Antonoff and Sounwave, GNX delves into fresh collaborations and thematic narratives.
- A global frenzy surrounds the album, with standout tracks sparking speculation about Lamar’s creative evolution and ongoing feuds.
Kendrick Lamar breaks the internet with ‘GNX’ album
Dropped on Friday, 22 November 2024, under pgLang and Interscope Records, this project signals a new chapter for Lamar, marking his departure from long-time affiliations with Top Dawg Entertainment and Aftermath Entertainment.
The album, clocking in at just over 44 minutes, features 12 tracks, including uncredited vocals from SZA and collaborations with producers like Jack Antonoff and Sounwave.
Fans were first teased about GNX’s existence during Lamar’s headline announcement for the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX halftime show.
With cryptic messages and snippets of tracks like Watch the Party Die sharhttps://swisherpost.co.za/tag/drake/ed on social media, anticipation had reached a fever pitch before the album’s sudden debut.
What’s inside GNX
Lamar delivers a blend of bold experimentation and nods to his signature style in GNX.
The album opens with “Wacced Out Murals,” a track showcasing layered instrumentals and introspective lyrics. Lamar addresses several elephants in the room — a la Drake, Snoop Dogg and Lil Wayne.
Songs like Luther, featuring SZA, and Dodger Blue reflect his mastery of storytelling, blending personal insights with broader societal commentary.
Notably, the album revisits and reinterprets sounds from his previous works while incorporating new collaborators, like producer Terrace Martin, adding depth and diversity to the production.
Standout singles such as Heart Pt. 6, the official version that nullifies Drake’s parody and GNX explore themes of redemption and legacy, hinting at Lamar’s introspection as he enters a new phase of his career.
More than just music
The album arrives amid ongoing public discourse around Lamar’s recent feud with Canadian artist Drake.
Songs like Meet the Grahams and Not Like Us have fuelled speculation about Lamar’s response to years of subtle jabs between the two rap giants.
Beyond the drama, GNX is also accompanied by a cinematic music video for the track Gloria, cementing the project as a multidimensional creative endeavour.