All 12 Songs From Kendrick Lamar’s ‘GNX’ Album Ranked

Kendrick Lamar surprised fans with the release of his album GNX on Friday, November 22, 2024. The album, filled with 12 tracks, includes features from artists like SZA, Sam Dew, and emerging talents such as Deyra Barrera, Ink, Dody 6, and AzChike. Following his 2022 album Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers, GNX arrived without warning, adding to Lamar’s string of successes.

The album title draws inspiration from a 1987 Buick Grand National Regal GNX, a model that features in a teaser for the album. Kendrick’s longtime collaborator Sounwave contributed to the production, with other notable contributors such as Jack Antonoff and Kamasi Washington. Before the release, Lamar had been rumored to be working on new music, following his ongoing rap battle with Drake.

With GNX, Kendrick Lamar continues his dominance in the rap world, even earning seven Grammy nominations earlier in November, five of which are related to his diss track "Not Like Us" directed at Drake.

The album is rich in storytelling and boasts several notable tracks. Here’s a ranking of the 12 tracks from worst to best:

1. "Dodger Blue"
   A hazy West Coast tribute, it fails to stand out compared to other tracks on the album. Featuring Ink, Siete, and Roddy Ricch, it blends into the background.

2. "Peekaboo"
   A track that mirrors Lamar’s ability to drop in and out of the music scene. It showcases his ability to turn obscure references into part of his rap narrative, even mimicking NBA star Kawhi Leonard’s viral moment.

3. "Hey Now"
   Kendrick turns the mundane into something menacing with the line “The Black know I just strangled me a GOAT.” He drops a possible jab at Drake while incorporating L.A. rapper Dody 6.

4. "GNX"
   The title track is a statement about Lamar’s role in promoting young West Coast talent. The song features Young Threat, Peysoh, and Hitta J3, where Kendrick takes a backseat to allow them to shine.

5. "Gloria"
   Lamar opens up about his relationship with his fiancée Whitney, revealing the complexities of their bond. The final twist reveals his deeper love for his pen and the writing process itself.

6. "Man at the Garden"
   A tribute to Nas with an interpolation of Nas’s “One Mic,” Kendrick raps about his journey and his preparation for the afterlife, dealing with trials and the pain he’s faced.

7. "Wacced Out Murals"
   With a haunting intro and Latin influences from Deyra Barrera, Kendrick reflects on his rise after the Drake feud, even addressing Snoop’s repost of Drake’s AI-generated freestyle.

8. "Luther"
   A smooth collaboration with SZA, blending rap and R&B. The track's production features Jack Antonoff, Sounwave, Cardo, and Kamasi Washington, making it one of the album’s standout songs.

9. "Heart Pt. 6"
   A direct response to Drake’s attempt to mock Kendrick’s “The Heart” series. Kendrick reminisces on his humble beginnings and candidly admits to the creative shifts that led to the demise of the Black Hippy supergroup.

10. "Squabble Up"
    Sampling Debbie Deb’s “When I Hear Music,” this track is a crowd-pleaser with its fun and brash vibe. Kendrick brings energy and boasts about his top-tier status in rap.

11. "TV Off"
    A stark transition from G-Funk to triumphant horns, Kendrick expresses his disdain for parts of contemporary culture. It’s a powerful track with Kendrick’s signature social critique.

12. "Reincarnated"
    Kendrick shines on this track, showcasing his versatility and vivid storytelling. Paying homage to Tupac while confronting his own demons, it stands as one of the album's most poignant songs.

With GNX, Kendrick Lamar not only continues to evolve as an artist but also reinforces his position as one of the best in the game today. The album is a compelling mix of introspection, social commentary, and self-assurance, with collaborations that elevate his narrative and production to new heights.