Kendrick Lamar Drops Surprise Album GNX and Sparks Massive Buzz

Kendrick Lamar has done it again: this morning, out of nowhere, he dropped GNX, a 12-track album that’s got everyone talking. From calling out Lil Wayne and the Super Bowl drama to reclaiming Tupac’s legacy, this album feels like Kendrick’s way of saying, “I’m still the best.”

Let’s break it down.

Lil Wayne and the Super Bowl Showdown

The NFL picked Kendrick to headline the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show in New Orleans, but some fans thought the hometown hero Lil Wayne deserved the spot. Kendrick didn’t shy away from the controversy. On GNX’s opening track, “wacced out murals,” he raps:

“Used to bump ‘Tha Carter III,’ I held my Rollie chain proud / Irony, I think my hard work let Lil Wayne down.”

It’s classic Kendrick—acknowledging the tension while staying unapologetically true to himself.

Throwing It Back to His Roots While Doing Something New

If you loved the raw energy of DAMN., GNX will feel like coming home. The beats are intense, the lyrics cut deep, and the stories hit hard. West Coast vibes from producer Mustard shine on tracks like “Hey now,” but it’s Jack Antonoff’s unexpected presence on 11 tracks that adds a fresh twist to Kendrick’s sound.

Honoring Tupac

Kendrick takes a direct shot at anyone disrespecting Tupac’s legacy—especially after recent AI-generated controversies. On “reincarnated,” he flips Tupac’s 1996 track “Made N—” and nails Pac’s flow, all while imagining himself in past lives, including as a Black woman performing during the Chitlin’ Circuit era. It’s poetic, powerful, and pure Kendrick.

Minimal Guests, Maximum Impact

This isn’t an album overloaded with big-name features, but it doesn’t need to be. SZA makes a standout appearance on “Luther,” and newcomer Sam Dew steals the show with his smooth vocals on seven tracks. Underground rappers like AzChike and Wallie the Sensei bring grit and authenticity to the mix.

Taking the Beef to New Heights

Kendrick’s long-standing rivalry with Drake gets another chapter with “heart pt. 6.” Instead of direct disses, Kendrick reflects on his come-up with TDE and his loyalty to friends like Jay Rock:

“My n— Dave had a Champagne Acura / A bunch of instrumentals I freestyled in the passenger.”

It’s Kendrick showing he’s not fazed—he’s focused on his legacy.

A Reminder of Who’s on Top

GNX isn’t just an album; it’s Kendrick’s latest claim to being the best rapper alive. With sharp bars, unforgettable stories, and bold cultural commentary, it’s a project that hits hard and stays with you. Whether you agree with his message or not, one thing is clear: Kendrick Lamar continues to set the tone for the rap game.