Kendrick Lamar is not letting up leaving fans positively shook: he surprised fans again with the release of his project GNX, which arrived unexpectedly last Friday. The video for the song "Squabble Up" (the opening segment of which we already heard in the Not Like Us video, and it became known as the "broccoli song": I woke up looking for the broccoli), the second track on the album, was released yesterday, directed by Calmatic, with Kendrick's characteristic visual style. The video interweaves cultural and musical references, including a tribute to Nate Dogg, Ice-T's album Power, and a humorous book titled How to Be More Like Kendrick for Dummies. The poses - how they are positioned - are quite inspiring. The set design, reminiscent of The Roots' video for "The Next Movement," further adds to the symbolism that fans have already begun to analyze in detail. The filmic nature of the video, despite already being a norm in his visual expression - is still as exciting as ever: the attention, energy and thoughtfulness of each frame (a girl in a thong leotard holds a AK47 with her back turned, the covered identities (faces) of the Bloods guys - while Kendrick himself is now wearing a blue hoodie, etc., etc.)
What's most eye-catching is the caption that appears at the end of the video – "Compton Christmas Parade." This element has fueled speculation about Kendrick's possible participation in the annual parade in Compton, which will take place on December 14. Stars like Jason Martin "Problem" and the Compton Cowboys have already been confirmed as headliners, and the question remains whether Kendrick will be the next surprise.
The title "Squabble Up" draws attention with its specific ambiguity. In street slang, "squabble" refers to a quarrel or fight, but Kendrick transforms the meaning into a call for social action and personal development. Musically, the song uses a sample from Debbie Deb's iconic freestyle hit, "When I Hear Music." This choice adds an energetic electro-funk dynamic to the track, creating a sonic bridge between the 80s and contemporary hip-hop. The sample is skillfully incorporated into the song, giving the composition a layered texture and a sense of nostalgia.
Genre-wise, “Squabble Up” is a true example of a fusion of styles. The track combines electro elements, funk energy and modern hip-hop beats, setting the stage for Kendrick’s characteristically powerful lyricism. The rhythmic changes are subtly synchronized with the lyrics, and the production, led by pgLang, highlights the purity and technical precision of the sound. The rhythm section, enriched with bold tempo changes, highlights the lyrics that combine lyrical references to the albums good kid, m.A.A.d city and To Pimp a Butterfly. This complexity, accompanied by impeccable production (five producers are signed on each of the songs), confirms that Kendrick remains a technical innovator and an artist who refuses to adhere to the expected musical formulas. As a disciple of Dr. Dre, who once called him a “scientist” when he wears the producer’s hat, it is quite expected.
GNX – a new album that breaks records and sets new standards
GNX is Kendrick Lamar’s fifth studio album, and it has taken the music scene by storm since its sudden release. The album set Spotify and Apple Music records for the most streamed album in its first 24 hours, while critics have called it “a masterpiece that perfectly captures the balance between innovation and respect for its roots.” Fans have responded enthusiastically to GNX’s complex lyrics and unique musical style, with songs like “Not Like Us” and “Squabble Up” already being considered potential Grammy winners. The project confirms Kendrick’s dominance as one of the most influential artists in contemporary music.
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