GNX - Kendrick Lamar - Music Review by Dami Akinmola

GNX is the 10th album in Kendrick Lamar’s discography and a pleasant surprise in a year full of unexpected releases. The album feels like a victory lap for Kendrick and the city of Los Angeles—an unapologetic celebration of what it means to be from LA and Compton.

Let’s rewind to two years ago, when Kendrick dropped Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers, a therapeutic, conceptual album aimed at freeing those burdened by generational curses and the pressure of being “the chosen one.” That album felt like a leader saying goodbye to his followers after doing all he could to guide them, as he sought his own version of paradise. But it’s never that simple to leave. Either people beg you to come back, or you find a new way to inspire and save even more people.

In Kendrick’s case, saving more people required a sacrifice: defeating someone widely regarded as one of the greatest—perhaps the greatest. This pivotal moment allowed Kendrick to gain even more followers and gave him the platform to spread his message on the biggest stage of all: the Super Bowl. This moment laid the foundation for GNX, an album deeply rooted in the culture, artistry, and unique sound of LA.

The lead single, SQUABBLE UP, is a short yet fiery track that serves as a warning to anyone doubting Kendrick’s readiness to defend his crown. The accompanying video pays homage to the inspirations behind both the song and the album. Other standout tracks include REINCARNATED, where Kendrick channels the spirit of Tupac to explore the many lives his current soul has inhabited.

The features are a delightful surprise, with appearances from SZA, Roddy Ricch, and underground LA artists like Dody6 and AzChike, among others. This blend of legends and rising stars perfectly complements the album’s unapologetically LA vibe.

My first thought upon hearing GNX was how it reminded me of Drake’s If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late. Both albums feel like artists stepping into the booth to prove their dominance. The difference? By the unspoken rules of rap, Kendrick’s effort feels authentic, while Drake’s felt less so—an authenticity that played a role in their past beef. And it’s that same authenticity that makes GNX a truly unique and unapologetic love letter to LA.