On November 22, 2024, Kendrick Lamar surprised fans with the release of his latest album, ‘GNX’. The album, hailed as a return to Lamar’s raw lyrical style, has ignited speculation about whether it includes subtle or direct disses aimed at his long-time rival, Drake.
As fans dissect the tracks, one song in particular, “Wacced Out Murals,” has stood out for its sharp commentary that many believe is directed at the Toronto rapper.
Lyrical References in “Wacced Out Murals”
The track “Wacced Out Murals”, which opens the album, features lines that critique an unnamed artist for prioritizing commercial success over artistic integrity. Lyrics such as, You trade bars for deals, I trade bars for real,
have led many to speculate that this is a direct jab at Drake, continuing a feud that has played out subtly over the years. The track further alludes to themes of authenticity in hip-hop, a recurring topic in Lamar’s discography.
Context of the Kendrick Lamar and Drake Rivalry
The rivalry between Kendrick Lamar and Drake can be traced back to their competitive rise in the hip-hop industry. While never fully escalated into explicit diss tracks from both sides, there have been moments of tension, including Kendrick’s infamous verse on “Control” in 2013 and Drake’s responses in interviews and lyrics. ‘GNX’ seems to reignite this subtle battle with Lamar’s pointed commentary.
When Did GNX Drop?
‘GNX’ was released on November 22, 2024, as a surprise album, marking Kendrick Lamar’s return after his 2022 release, Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers. The album features 12 tracks, blending introspective themes with social commentary, and includes collaborations with SZA and production by Jack Antonoff.
Who Are the Big 3 in Rap?
In contemporary hip-hop, the Big 3 often refers to Kendrick Lamar, Drake, and J. Cole. These three artists have dominated the rap scene for over a decade, each bringing unique styles and perspectives. While Kendrick focuses on storytelling and social issues, Drake is known for his versatility and chart dominance, and J. Cole balances introspection with mainstream appeal.
Does Snoop Dogg Like Kendrick Lamar?
Yes, Snoop Dogg has publicly expressed admiration for Kendrick Lamar on multiple occasions. Both hailing from Compton, California, Snoop has called Kendrick a representative of the West Coast’s rich hip-hop legacy and praised his lyricism and storytelling.
Who is Kendrick Lamar’s Favorite Rapper?
Kendrick Lamar has cited several influences over the years, including 2Pac, Jay-Z, and Nas. In interviews, he has frequently named 2Pac as his greatest inspiration, crediting him for shaping his understanding of storytelling in rap.
Conclusion
While Kendrick Lamar has not explicitly confirmed that ‘GNX’ contains a diss directed at Drake, tracks like “Wacced Out Murals” fuel speculation. The subtle jabs and themes of authenticity align with Kendrick’s history of challenging the status quo in hip-hop. As fans continue to analyze the album, one thing is clear: Kendrick Lamar remains a master of crafting narratives that keep the rap world talking.