Kendrick Lamar has done it again. With the release of GNX, he’s cemented his place as not just a hip hop icon but as a cultural force who knows how to blend artistry, nostalgia, and innovation. Here at On the Wall LA, we’re obsessed, and honestly, this project has us in a chokehold. Let’s break down why:
1. LA Love Runs Deep
For those of us who call Los Angeles home, GNX feels like a love letter to the city. Kendrick seamlessly weaves mariachi influences with hip hop beats, creating a sonic experience that’s uniquely LA. Mariachi music, rooted in celebration and storytelling, combined with the gritty, poetic essence of hip hop, somehow feels like home. It’s the sound of late-night drives, block parties, and family gatherings—an ode to our hometown that resonates deeply.
2. DJ Mustard and SZA: The Dream Team
Whenever Kendrick teams up with DJ Mustard and SZA, magic happens. On GNX, their collaborations are no exception. “Mustaaaaaaaaaaard”—is practically an anthem on its own. The way Kendrick and SZA’s voices intertwine over Mustard’s polished yet gritty production is pure auditory bliss. These tracks aren’t just songs; they’re experiences.
3. That Iconic "Mustaaaaaaaaaaard" Moment
We’d be lying if we said we didn’t replay the part where Kendrick screams “Mustaaaaaaaaaaard” over and over again. It’s electric, infectious, and a little bit hilarious in the best way. It’s one of those moments that makes the album feel personal and alive, as if Kendrick is having as much fun as we are listening to it.
4. A Masterclass in Sampling
Kendrick’s ability to pay homage to music history while creating something fresh is unparalleled. On GNX, he samples certified classics like SWV’s “Use Your Heart” and Luther Vandross’s “If This World Were Mine.” These samples aren’t just background noise; they’re integral to the storytelling. By blending these familiar sounds, and with his lyrical genius in tracks like “Reincarnated,” Kendrick bridges the gap between the past and the present, creating something iconic and timeless.
5. It’s a Gift That Keeps on Giving
One of the most incredible things about GNX is how it reveals itself with every listen. There’s always a lyric you didn’t quite catch the first time or a deeper meaning that resonates unexpectedly. Kendrick’s ability to layer his storytelling—both sonically and lyrically—makes this album endlessly replayable. Each listen feels like peeling back another layer of an intricate masterpiece.
Kendrick Lamar’s GNX isn’t just an album; it’s an experience, a journey, and for us, a soundtrack to the culture and creativity we love so much. It’s music that moves us, inspires us, and reminds us why hip hop is more than a genre—it’s a way of life. Be sure to check out our GNX inspired collection in the shop, and carry a little piece of inspiration wherever you go.
