Kendrick Lamar: from Pulitzer to pop

Written By Charlie Harding

EPISODE 396

In 2024, Kendrick Lamar pulled off what seemed impossible: winning hip-hop's biggest rap battle in recent history, securing the Super Bowl halftime show, and dropping GNX, a surprise album that might be the year's defining pop record. But this triumphant return wasn't guaranteed. Two decades into his career — well past the average life expectancy of a rap career — Kendrick faced a critical challenge: how to balance his legendary artistic complexity with mainstream accessibility.

Songs Discussed

  • Kendrick Lamar – squabble up

  • Kendrick Lamar – luther (feat. SZA)

  • Kendrick Lamar – tv off (feat. Lefty Gunplay)

Charlie Harding
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