Kendrick Lamar just brought the music world to a halt. Without warning, Kendrick surprised fans by dropping GNX, a 12-track album now available on all streaming platforms. The project, which comes after his 2022 release, Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers, signals a shift for the rapper. For the first time in his career, Kendrick steps away from his former labels, Top Dawg Entertainment and Aftermath, though the familial support is withstanding.
The title, GNX, is a nod to the Buick Grand National Experimental car, an icon of speed and sleek performance. Kendrick has taken a similar approach, delivering a record that is as sharp as it is unexpected. A teaser video released just before the album hints at the themes within, but the content is pure Kendrick: innovative, focused and packed with intent.
The second track, Squabble Up,” teased in the “Not Like Us” music video, officially lands on the project. It samples Debbie Deb’s freestyle classic “When I Hear Music.” Kendrick also continues his acclaimed Heart series with “Heart pt. 6,” a track that adds depth to his catalog while quietly addressing his recent feud with Drake.
Speaking of Drake, their public sparring this year was impossible to ignore. The feud began with Drake’s “Push Ups,” and Kendrick responded with a string of fiery tracks, including “Not Like Us,” which now features on GNX. The diss became a massive hit, earning Grammy buzz and topping the charts, while its star-studded video celebrated Kendrick’s roots and triumphs. The drama might have settled, but the ripples it caused are evident in this project.
The album’s guest list isn’t fully revealed yet, but early listens confirm standout collaborations. SZA lends her voice to “Gloria” and “Luther,” while Kendrick matches wits with AzChike on “Hey Now.” Producers like Jack Antonoff, Mustard, Sounwave, and Kamasi Washington help shape the album’s sound, creating a dynamic mix of styles that reflect Kendrick’s range.
This release comes as Kendrick prepares for another major moment—headlining the Super Bowl LIX halftime show in New Orleans. While fans are thrilled, some Lil Wayne supporters voiced disappointment that their hometown hero didn’t get the spotlight instead. Lamar addresses the controversy on “Wacced Out Murals,” “I used to bump Tha Carter III, I held my Rollie chain proud/The irony I think my hard work let Lil Wayne down,” he raps on the song.
Beyond the Super Bowl, Lamar is set for a successful Grammys run after securing 5 nominations at the 2025 ceremony. Lamar’s “Not Like Us” lands both Song and Record of the Year nominations, and he continues his dominance in the rap categories.
With GNX, Kendrick Lamar reminds the world why he’s a master of timing and artistry.
Take a look at the complete tracklist and credits below:
1. wacced out morals – Written by Kendrick Lamar and Deyra Barrera
Produced by Dahi, Frano, Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, Tyler Mehlenbacher, Craig Balmoris, M-Tech
2. squabble up – Written by Kendrick Lamar
Produced by Kendrick Lamar, Sounwave, Bridgeway, Jack Antonoff, M-Tech
3. luther – Written by Ink, Kendrick Lamar, Sam Dew, SZA
Produced by Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, Rose Lilah, M-Tech, Bridgeway, Kamasi Washington
4. man at the garden – Written by Kendrick Lamar
Produced by Tyler Mehlenbacher, Craig Balmoris, Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, M-Tech
5. hey now – Written by Kendrick Lamar, Dody 6
Produced by Mustard, Sounwave, Jack Antonoff
6. reincarnated – Written by Kendrick Lamar, Deyra Barrera
Produced by Kendrick Lamar, Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, M-Tech, Noah Ehler
7. tv off – Written by Kendrick Lamar
Produced by Mustard, Sean Momberger, Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, Kamasi Washington
8. dodger blue – Written by Kendrick Lamar, Sam Dew, Siete, Wallie the Sensei
Produced by Tim Maxey, Tane Runo, Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, Terrace Martin
9. peekaboo – Written by Kendrick Lamar, AzChike
Produced by Bridgewway, Sean Momberger, Sounwave
10. heart pt. 6 – Written by Kendrick Lamar
Produced by Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, M-Tech, Juju
11. gnx – Written by Hitta J3, Kendrick Lamar, Peyosh, Young Threat
Produced by Rascal, KENNY & BILLY, Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, Tim Maxey
12. gloria – Written by Deyra Barrera, Ink, Kendrick Lamar, SZA
Produced by Deats, Sounwave, Jack Antonoff
