DJ Akademiks slams Kendrick Lamar for ‘GNX’ collab with ‘colonizer’ Jack Antonoff

Podcaster DJ Akademiks has raised criticism over Kendrick Lamar’s collaboration with producer Jack Antonoff on Lamar’s latest album, 'GNX'.

Akademiks took to X (formerly Twitter), posting, “Kendrick Lamar had colonizer Jack Antonoff co-produce his new album instead of empowering a foundational black American beat maker.”

However, Akademiks’ criticism was met with clarification from X users, who pointed out that Antonoff co-produced 11 of the album's tracks, while Sounwave, a black American beat maker, worked on all 12 songs. Some also highlighted that Akademiks’ post violated X's terms of service due to an undisclosed stake ad.

Despite his criticism, Akademiks previously stated that he does not think the project is “trash,” acknowledging that Lamar dropped a “dope tape” amidst expectations for new music. “Do I think they’re trash songs? No. Come on, we gotta be fair,” he added.

Released on November 22, 'GNX' follows Lamar’s 'Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers' (2022) and marks his first project since leaving Top Dawg Entertainment and Aftermath Entertainment. 'GNX' was released as a surprise album under PGLang and Interscope Records.