Kendrick Lamar discussed the creation of his latest GNX album and his recent Grammy success in a new interview with Apple Music.
Kendrick Lamar’s Grammy Achievements
The rapper, who is set to headline this year’s Super Bowl on February 9, spoke with hosts Ebro Darden and Nadska Alexis about his Grammy victories, including his track “Drake Diss,” which earned him five awards. He noted the significance of his achievements within the wider context of rap history.
“In fact, I just thought about culture,” Lamar says regarding the track. “This is always first for me. When people discuss rap, I hear them treating it as if it is just rap, rather than a legitimate art form. By placing such records at the forefront, it reminds people that this is more than just what happened 50 years ago.”
Creative Inspirations Behind GNX
Discussing his approach to hip-hop, Lamar shared: “From day one, my intention was to maintain the essence of hip-hop as a sport. I don’t mind how others perceive it as a collaborative effort; that’s cool too, but I love when artists grind to get where they are.”
The rapper also reflected on the inspiration behind “GNX,” which features tracks such as “Quarrels,” “TV OFF,” and “Hey Now.” “I’ve always had this DNA,” he explains. “You heard this DNA a bit on ‘good kid, MAAD city,’ but I wanted to prioritize telling my own story. Moving into GNX, I felt it was the ideal time; not only was energy lost, but energy was also bubbling within me.”
Looking back on the contrast between GNX and his 2022 album “Mr. Morality & The Big Steppers,” Lamar added: “It was a significant transition from Mr. Morality, as that was my most intimate album. I aimed to explore my own psyche and personal struggles and see how they connected with the public. This time, I felt it was essential to emerge from that cocoon and declare: ‘I can showcase my victories and reveal every aspect of who I am.’”
SZA will make a special appearance during Lamar’s Super Bowl performance.
