GNX: Every Song On Kendrick Lamar’s Surprise New Album Ranked

Kendrick Lamar’s surprise album GNX has captivated audiences with its unexpected drop and unique blend of West Coast energy and introspective storytelling. Released two and a half years after Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers and with little warning, the rapper’s sixth studio album showcases Lamar’s versatility through a dynamic mix of groovy beats and emotional reflections. GNX serves as both a celebration and exploration of Lamar’s artistic evolution, highlighting his ability to craft cohesive projects that balance accessibility with innovation.

The tracks range from cinematic orchestration to raw lyricism, each offering something distinct to the listening experience. This ranking counts down to the album’s standout moments, analyzing what makes each track compelling. Together, the songs make GNX a fascinating and essential addition to Lamar’s catalog.

11 Hey Now

“Hey now” ranks as the least impactful track on GNX, not due to a lack of skill, but because it doesn’t carry the same weight or complexity as the rest of the album. The production leans on repetitive patterns that lack the textured depth typical of Lamar’s work. While the track has its moments, it fails to make a lasting impression.

Thematically, “hey now” explores themes of disillusionment and a quiet rebellion against societal pressures, but these ideas feel underdeveloped compared to the thematic richness of Lamar’s other songs. The sparse production, which features looping synths and subdued percussion, provides a minimalist backdrop for Lamar’s verses. However, instead of creating an intimate or stripped-down effect, it comes across as uninspired. In contrast to Lamar’s usual ability to balance introspection with dynamic soundscapes, “hey now” feels like a missed opportunity to delve deeper into its subject matter.

10 GNX

As the album’s title track, “gnx” carries high expectations. Unfortunately, it doesn’t fully meet them, feeling more like a serviceable B-side than the centerpiece it could have been. Featuring Peysoh, Hitta J3, and YoungThreat, the song packs a punch with its aggressive verses and dynamic energy. However, the lack of unique elements makes the song perhaps the least inspired of the entire album.

Lyrically, “gnx” tackles themes of loyalty, resilience, and legacy, with each featured artist adding their own perspective. Kendrick’s hook, “Tell ‘em Kendrick did it,” acts as a defiant declaration of his influence on the genre. Despite its bold tone, the song leans heavily on repetition, which diminishes its impact throughout the song’s extended runtime.

The production, handled by Sounwave and Jack Antonoff, combines booming basslines with layered percussion to create a gritty soundscape. While the energy is undeniable, the track struggles to find its footing, feeling more like a collection of individual moments than a cohesive whole. For a Lamar title track, “gnx” does not live up to its potential.

9 Peekaboo

“Peekaboo” is a playful yet strong track, blending humor and bravado into a track that feels more like a fun experiment than a serious addition to his discography. The repetitive hook—“What they talkin’ ‘bout? They ain’t talkin’ ‘bout nothin’”—serves as a cheeky dismissal of critics and naysayers.

The song’s structure is simple, relying on a straightforward beat and a looped bassline that provides ample space for Lamar’s punchlines. Verses filled with vivid imagery and sharp one-liners showcase his wit, though the track lacks the depth and narrative complexity that define his strongest work.

Featuring guest verses from AzChike and Dody6, “peekaboo” shifts between humor and aggression, creating a dynamic but somewhat uneven listening experience. While the song’s lighthearted tone adds variety to GNX, it ultimately feels like a more minor entry in Lamar’s catalog, possibly better suited as a mixtape cut than an album track.

8 Dodger Blue

“Dodger Blue” captures the laid-back essence of Los Angeles, offering a sonic representation of the city’s sunny streets and vibrant culture. The production, characterized by a mellow groove and subtle funk influences, creates a relaxed atmosphere that perfectly complements Lamar’s introspective verses.

Lyrically, the track reflects on Lamar’s connection to his hometown, exploring themes of identity and belonging. The title itself pays homage to the Dodgers, a symbol of Los Angeles pride, adding a layer of cultural significance to the song. Despite its charm, “dodger blue” doesn’t quite reach the heights of Lamar’s best work. Its understated nature, while effective in capturing a specific mood, makes it feel more like a transitional moment within the album than a standout track. Still, its warm, nostalgic tone adds depth to the album’s exploration of identity and place.

7 TV Off

“TV Off” is a chaotic and experimental track that highlights Lamar’s willingness to take risks. From the moment it begins, the song grabs attention with its erratic energy and unconventional structure. The shocking “MUSTAAAARRRDDDD!” yell, which punctuates the track, serves as both a humorous aside and a jarring disruption that keeps listeners on edge.

Beneath its eccentric surface, “tv off” critiques the performative nature of modern society, particularly in the age of social media. Lamar’s biting verses dissect the ways people manipulate their public personas, creating a satirical yet incisive commentary on authenticity and self-presentation. The production, which veers between operatic drama and raw aggression, mirrors the track’s thematic tension. While its unpredictability may polarize listeners, “tv off” stands as a testament to Lamar’s ability to push boundaries and challenge conventions.

6 Heart Pt. 6

The Heart series has long been a staple of Lamar’s discography, and “heart pt. 6” continues the tradition of introspection and self-examination. Over a soulful, 90s-esque beat, Lamar reflects on his journey, revisiting key moments and relationships that have shaped his life and career.

The song’s laid-back production, featuring smooth instrumentals and a subtle groove, creates a reflective atmosphere that perfectly complements Lamar’s introspective verses. Lyrically, the track delves into themes of loyalty, artistic growth, and personal responsibility, offering a poignant exploration of Lamar’s evolution as an artist and individual.

While “heart pt. 6” doesn’t quite match the emotional intensity of its predecessors, it remains a compelling entry in the series. Its thoughtful lyrics and nostalgic tone make it a standout moment on GNX, showcasing Lamar’s ability to balance personal reflection with broader social commentary.

5 Man At The Garden

“Man at the garden” is one of the most intimate and emotionally raw tracks on GNX. Its stripped-down production allows Lamar’s storytelling to take center stage, creating a powerful and deeply personal listening experience. The song delves into themes of self-discovery, resilience, and redemption, with Lamar adopting a confessional tone that feels deeply authentic.

The track’s vivid imagery and heartfelt lyrics evoke comparisons to Lamar’s earlier introspective works. Its restrained execution, paired with Lamar’s evocative storytelling, creates a poignant and memorable moment on the album. By focusing on vulnerability and personal growth, “man an at the garden” highlights a different side of Lamar’s artistry, showcasing his ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.

4 Squabble Up

With its explosive energy and infectious hook, “squabble up” captures the raw spirit of West Coast hip-hop. The track’s aggressive delivery and bold production create a high-octane experience that demands attention. Lamar’s verses are filled with sharp wordplay and commanding delivery, asserting his dominance with unapologetic confidence.

The production, which blends classic rap elements with modern techniques, provides a dynamic backdrop for Lamar’s fiery performance. The song’s nostalgic nods to the golden age of hip-hop, combined with its contemporary edge and sharp lyrics, make it a standout moment on GNX. “squabble up” is a testament to Lamar’s ability to balance intensity with accessibility, delivering a track that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

3 Luther

Featuring SZA, “luther” is a masterful blend of hip-hop and R&B that showcases Lamar’s versatility as an artist. The track’s lush production, characterized by smooth melodies and intricate layering, creates a romantic atmosphere that feels quite timeless. Lyrically, the song explores themes of love, support, and vulnerability, with Lamar delivering heartfelt verses that reflect on the complexities of relationships. Lamar keeps up with SZA incredibly, displaying that, in the future, he needs to do a lot more singing like this.

SZA’s soulful vocals add an extra layer of depth and emotion, making “luther” a truly captivating listening experience. The interplay between Lamar’s introspective verses and SZA’s mesmerizing chorus creates a dynamic and emotionally rich track that stands out as one of the album’s strongest moments. This certainly deserves to be a staple Kendrick Lamar song in the future.

2 Wacced Out Murals

“Wacced out murals” opens GNX with a cinematic flourish, setting the tone for the album with its sweeping orchestration and powerful lyricism. The track’s layered production, featuring Deyra Barrera’s haunting vocals, creates an immersive soundscape that draws listeners into Lamar’s world.

Thematically, the song explores perseverance, identity, and artistic integrity, with Lamar’s verses weaving vivid imagery and sharp commentary into a cohesive narrative. The chorus, with its uplifting message of resilience, serves as a rallying cry for listeners. As an opener, “wacced out murals” establishes the ambitious scope of GNX, showcasing Lamar’s ability to blend storytelling with sonic innovation.

1 Reincarnated

Topping the list is “reincarnated”, a track that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of GNX. With its funky piano riff, groovy beat, and commanding vocal performance, the song captures the essence of West Coast hip-hop while pushing the genre forward. Lyrically, Lamar delves into themes of legacy, self-discovery, and the burdens of fame, reflecting on his journey with honesty and intensity. The track’s dramatic production and powerful delivery make it an unforgettable highlight.

The song is a masterclass in blending innovation with authenticity, solidifying its place as the crowning jewel of GNX. The song “Reincarnated” has infectious energy, thought-provoking lyrics, and impeccable production exemplifies everything that makes Lamar one of the most celebrated figures in hip-hop. This song deserves to be regarded as one of Kendrick Lamar’s best songs down the road.