Kendrick Lamar’s ‘GNX’ blends Tupac homage, Super Bowl controversy, and bold collaborations

Kendrick Lamar’s surprise album ‘GNX’ fuses LA G-Funk, Tupac tributes, and standout collaborations with top producers.

Kendrick Lamar stunned fans with the unexpected release of his new album GNX on November 22, 2024.

The project, named after the 1987 Buick Grand National on its cover, highlights LA's G-Funk legacy while exploring themes of identity, artistry, and homage to Tupac Shakur. With contributions from top producers like Mustard, Sounwave, and Jack Antonoff, GNX balances mainstream appeal with deep-rooted cultural influences.

The album opens with mariachi singer Deyra Barrera's haunting vocals, showcasing Lamar’s connection to Los Angeles’ Mexican-American culture. Tracks like “Hey Now” and “TV Off” reunite Lamar with Mustard, continuing the synergy first seen in their chart-topping collaboration “Not Like Us.” On “Reincarnated,” Lamar channels Tupac Shakur’s lyrical intensity and spiritual themes, paying homage to the late rap icon's 1996 Makaveli era.

Jack Antonoff’s influence is prominent across 11 of the album’s 12 tracks. Known for pop collaborations with Taylor Swift and Sabrina Carpenter, Antonoff ventures into Lamar’s soundscapes, particularly on “Dodger Blue,” which revisits his Red Hearse project roots. Antonoff's seamless blend with Lamar's longtime collaborator Sounwave underscores the rapper’s meticulous production vision.

Kendrick also addresses recent controversies, notably the Super Bowl halftime show debate involving Lil Wayne. On “wacced out,” he reflects on his reverence for Wayne and the complexities of their relationship. With eclectic samples ranging from Debbie Deb to Luther Vandross, GNX cements Lamar's role as both a cultural historian and an innovative artist.