Kendrick Lamar has unexpectedly released his sixth studio album, GNX, marking his first full-length project since 2022’s Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers. The album’s unanticipated drop on November 22, 2024, follows a period of heightened activity for Lamar, including a publicized feud with fellow rapper Drake and an upcoming performance at the Super Bowl LIX halftime show.
GNX comprises 12 tracks, featuring collaborations with artists such as SZA, Dody6, AzChike, and Deyra Barrera. The production credits include frequent collaborator Sounwave and Jack Antonoff, known for his work with Red Hearse. Notably, the album includes “Heart Pt. 6,” continuing Lamar’s “The Heart” series, which has been a platform for his introspective and socially conscious commentary.
The album’s content reflects Lamar’s recent tensions with Drake. The opening track, “Wacced Out Murals,” addresses their ongoing feud, referencing Drake’s AI-assisted diss track, “Taylor Made Freestyle.” Another track, “Squabble Up,” was previously previewed in the music video for “Not Like Us,” a diss track that debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 earlier this year. This series of exchanges has been a focal point in hip-hop, with both artists delivering multiple diss tracks that have captivated audiences and media alike.
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Lamar’s surprise release strategy for GNX mirrors his approach with Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers, where he eschewed traditional promotional tactics in favour of sudden drops, generating significant buzz and discussion within the music community. This method aligns with a broader trend among artists seeking to create immediate impact and engagement with their audiences.
Looking ahead, Lamar is slated to headline the Super Bowl LIX halftime show in February 2025 at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. This performance will mark the first time a rapper has led the halftime show as a solo act, highlighting Lamar’s prominence in the music industry. The announcement of his Super Bowl performance has further intensified public interest, especially in light of his recent feud with Drake, who has also been a central figure in hip-hop’s mainstream narrative.
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