Inspired by his Buick Grand National Experimental, "GNX" is a road trip through Lamar's psyche through sound, mixing personal contemplation with scathing social commentary. The opening track, Wacced Out Murals, is like a cinematic perspective from Kendrick's mind, reminiscing about his rise in the music industry, touchingly commenting on recent rap feuds, and a whole lot on the changing landscape of the hip-hop world. Accompanying this, he recognizes the monumental date of headlining next year's Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show in New Orleans.
The production of "GNX" spans genres, fusing hip-hop, R&B, and experimental soundscapes thanks to a trio of top-notch producers: Jack Antonoff, Soundwave, and DJ Mustard. "GNX also boasts two highlight collaborations with SZA, including the Anthem of Perseverance Gloria and the soulful Luther, a tribute to the soul great Luther Vandross, and Cheryl Lynn's classic If This World Were Mine.
Lamar's signature depth is also pervasive in Mr. Morale, with songs like Squabble Up and Man at the Garden probing resilience and self-redemption. Dodger Blue is an emotional love letter to his Compton origins, and Heart Pt. 6 is a continuation in his famed Heart series, taking listeners on a reflective path through fame, legacy, and humility.
Marking the top of an exceptional run at the charts, "GNX" affirms Kendrick Lamar's status as the leading figure in contemporary music following a year of unprecedented heights, including Like That, a commercial hit with Future and Metro Boomin, and seven GRAMMY nominations. With its fearless, innovative lyricism and production, this is an album that defines hip-hop history.