Kendrick Lamar released his sixth album, “GNX,” along with an album teaser video this afternoon as a complete surprise. Lamar, who was nominated for seven Grammy awards earlier this month, announced the album via Instagram at noon with a photo of the cover and title. “GNX” is Lamar’s first album since the 2022 release of “Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers” and his first full release since leaving his longtime record label, Top Dawg Entertainment.
“GNX” contains 11 new tracks and a full release of “squabble up,” which was teased in the introduction of the “Not Like Us” music video. The album features SZA, mariachi singer Deyra Barrera, Sam Dew, Peysoh and AzChike. Jack Antonoff and Sounwave are credited as album producers, alongside jazz musician Kamasi Washington and “Not Like Us” producer Mustard. Washington and Mustard collaborated to produce the track “tv off,” and Washington additionally produced “lucifer.”
The release arrives as Lamar prepares for his Super Bowl halftime performance in Louisiana. He addresses the upcoming event on the opener “wacced out murals,” confronting fans who believed Lamar “stole” the spot from New Orleans rapper Lil Wayne (“Won the Super Bowl and Nas the only one congratulated me/All these n*ggas agitated, I’m just glad it’s on they faces”). Throughout the track, he alludes to his feud with fellow rapper Drake and the internet discourse surrounding his career.
“GNX” is available to stream everywhere. Kendrick Lamar will headline the Super Bowl LIX halftime show on Feb. 9, 2025.
