Critique of Kendrick Lamar's 'GNX': Using Anger as a Lesson in Empathy
Kendrick Lamar fearlessly commands the hip-hop world after dropping 'Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers' with an unwavering force, shattering norms and igniting some of the most heated diss tracks in the last two decades.
In March, he responded to J. Cole's friendly shout-out on 'First Person Shooter' with a fierce verse on Future and Metro Boomin's 'Like That', brandishing two middle fingers at his peers and boldly uttering "Fuck rap." This audacious move kickstarted the biggest beef of the past 20 years with his long-standing frenemy Drake, leading to a series of intense diss tracks like the record-breaking 'Not Like Us'.
Now, in 2024, Lamar stays far from dwelling in the shadows. His latest album, 'GNX', dropped unexpectedly last Friday (November 22), marking his leap into the world of self-proclaimed independence under his own label, pgLang. With 'GNX', it's clear that Lamar is cruising around in his coveted Grand National Buick, determined to purge anything that stands in his way as he shapes the hip-hop game to fit his unique vision.
From the get-go, 'Wacced Out Murals' dissects the world as Lamar sees it. As one of today's hip-hop spearheads, this track serves as his state of the union, establishing a new ethos: "Fuck everybody, that's on my body / My blick first, then God got me." Indirectly referencing the Drake beef and questioning the loyalty of veterans such as Snoop Dogg and Lil Wayne, he dubs them "fake loyal."
'Squabble Up' sparkles with the infectious signature West Coast sound of G-funk that gets you dancing. The g-funk influences are in full force on other tracks like 'Hey Now', which sends you grooving to the hottest block party, showcasing your finest C-walk. The irresistible 'TV Off', produced by DJ "MUSTARRRRRRRRRDDD", demonstrates Lamar's knack for swinging between lyrical dexterity and chart-topping melody.
Taking local heroes under his wing, 'GNX' touts his neighborhood pride. On the album's title track, Kendrick bounces bars with some of L.A.'s most promising talent, Hitta j3, YoungThreat, and Peysoh, for a dark and gritty anthem that heralds the unwavering spirit of the hustlers.
The party energy shifts in 'Heart, Pt. 6' – a thoughtful, nostalgic cut that transports you back to Lamar's golden days at Top Dawg Entertainment. Drawing parallels with Drake's failed attempt at his own 'The Heart, Part 6' earlier this year, Lamar offers a soulful track that champions the importance of love and family, teaching valuable lessons on genuine conflict resolution.
A vivid storyteller, Lamar weaves elaborate narratives throughout the record. 'Man At The Garden' feels like what Nas would say if he crafted 'One Mic' 30 years later, expressing his firsthand account of climbing to the top of the rap game. The creative 'Reincarnated' reimagines Lamar as Tupac reborn, twisting the legend's iconic 1997 track 'Made N****z' to speak from the perspectives of Billie Holiday, John Lee Hooker, and Lucifer.
SZA and Lamar's incredible chemistry shines on 'GNX' twice. The former labelmates join up on 'Luther', transforming traditional love ballads with soulful flair. Together, they conjure a modern love story set to pulsating hi-hats, racing strings, and projected 808s. Later, they pretend to be husband and wife on 'Gloria', a tear-jerking track that showcases the sweetest strings and violins to close an album that's already bathing in awards speculation.
In a way, 'Gloria' is a powerful symbol: 'GNX' opens with an ominous edge that doesn't completely fade. However, Lamar channels what might initially appear as hate and spite into a teachable moment, inviting listeners to explore their deepest emotions - primarily love. In a volatile year, Kendrick Lamar offers the solace we all crave with 'GNX'.
Release date:
November 22, 2024
Record label:
pgLang
The post Kendrick Lamar - 'GNX' review: Turning vengeance into a lesson appeared first on NME.
Enrichment Data:
- The album 'GNX' is a tribute to Los Angeles' culture and West Coast hip-hop, with elements of G-funk and a focus on Lamar's Native neighborhood and LA's vibrant culture.
- The album reflects Kendrick Lamar's personal reflections and broader cultural themes, and showcases artistic evolution in comparison to his previous work.
- Although the feud with Drake is not explicitly addressed, the tension permeates throughout the album, influencing its overall tone and themes.
- 'GNX' marks a significant chapter in Kendrick's career and sets a new standard for contemporary West Coast hip-hop.
In this dynamic album, Kendrick Lamar delves deep into the world of pop-culture and entertainment, fusing elements of funk among his signature West Coast sound while maintaining a strong grip on the hip-hop sphere. 'GNX' is more than just an album; it seamlessly interweaves music, funk, and the lives of celebrities into a captivating narrative that echoes through the halls of pop-culture. The record's release on November 22, 2024, under his own label, pgLang, signifies Lamar's dive into independent music while continuing to shape the rap game according to his unique vision.
