Kendrick Lamar has unexpectedly released his sixth studio album, “GNX,” his first full-length project since 2022’s “Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers.” The surprise 12-track album features notable collaborations with SZA, who appears on two tracks titled “L” and “Glor,” alongside contributions from Jack Antonoff and saxophonist Kamasi Washington.
The opening track, “Wac Out Mur,” addresses the discussion surrounding his upcoming Super Bowl Halftime Show performance in New Orleans. Lamar addresses public sentiment about Lil Wayne as a potential performer. The album includes “Heart Pt. 6,” a continuation of his signature series that gained additional context following Drake’s earlier release of a similarly titled track.
2024 has marked a significant year for the 37-year-old artist, particularly with his spring releases “Like That” and “Not Like Us,” which emerged from his public exchange with Drake. “Not Like Us” reached number one on Billboard’s Hot 100 and secured nominations for Song of the Year and Record of the Year at the upcoming Grammy Awards.
The unexpected release was accompanied by a one-minute teaser video featuring orchestral strings and layered vocals. The album artwork displays Lamar positioned against a vintage muscle car, set against an empty backdrop. The album arrives through pgLang, the creative agency Lamar co-founded with Dave Free, under an exclusive license to Interscope Records. This surprise release precedes Lamar’s scheduled headlining performance at the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show on February 9th in New Orleans.