Kendrick Lamar, widely regarded as one of hip-hop’s finest, delighted fans with the unexpected release of his new album titled “GNX” on Friday, November 22. The album, which appeared suddenly around noon ET, features 12 tracks, including collaborations with fellow former TDE artist SZA, Sam Dew, and rising talents like Deyra Barrera, Ink, and Dody 6 among others.
The release comes amid rumors surrounding Lamar’s creative process, particularly following his high-profile musical exchanges with Drake. “GNX” follows the success of his 2022 album “Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers,” which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, moving an impressive 295,000 units in its first week.
Prominent producer Sounwave lends his talents to the album’s production, with notable contributions from Jack Antonoff and Kamasi Washington. Prior to the album’s drop, Kendrick teased fans with a video featuring a rare 1987 Buick Grand National Regal GNX, a nod to the album’s title.
As anticipation builds for the Super Bowl, where Lamar is set to perform at the Halftime Show in February in New Orleans, this new album adds an exciting layer to his upcoming performance. Earlier this month, he also secured seven Grammy nominations, five of which are associated with his much-discussed diss track about Drake titled “Not Like Us.”
For fans and critics alike, “GNX” not only exemplifies Kendrick’s musical prowess but also sets the stage for a thrilling end to 2023 and an even more electrifying start to 2024.
In summary, “GNX” is a powerful release that showcases Lamar’s talent and artistic evolution. As he prepares for a prominent appearance at the Super Bowl, it’s clear that Kendrick Lamar’s influence continues to resonate across the music industry.