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What Makes a Harry Styles Hook So Infectious

June 3, 2022

On May 20, Harry Styles released his new album Harry’s House, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 albums chart. This is his third studio album in which all thirteen songs are in the top 30...

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TikTok is "Hooked" on The Song House

May 26, 2022

The Song House is a songwriter house in Nashville, Tennessee where all levels of writers and artists come together to develop music. Every week, 12-15 songwriters are challenged to write a hook in...

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Olivia Rodrigo's Journey: One Year Since her First Album Release

May 27, 2022

It’s been one year since the young pop-star, Olivia Rodrigo, released her first music album “Sour”. Since her debut, Olivia Rodrigo has won 3 Grammy Awards and named Women of the Year in 2022.

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Doja Cat Overwhelmed With Fame Took To Twitter To Quit Music Career

March 31, 2022

​​After a cancelled performance at the Asuncionico festival in Paraguay Doja cat received backlash from fans claiming the singer neglected them outside of her hotel. After the many complaints from...

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With T.O.P.'s Departure from YG due to mental health struggles, is this the End of Big Bang?

April 11, 2022

After a long 4 year’s K-pop group Big Bang makes a comeback to the music scene with the song “Still Life.” This song has become another banger from the group reminding fans of the music they once...

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Broadway’s KPOP To Premiere Late 2022

April 6, 2022

The first theatre production highlighting the global takeover of the K-Pop industry will be making its Broadway debut later this year, with its opening night scheduled for November 20, while...

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Ed Sheeran Slams “Damaging” Lawsuits Against Songwriters Amidst Copyright Case Victory

April 6, 2022

Over the past month, singer Ed Sheeran has been battling a copyright trial, accusing him of plagiarizing his 2017 hit song, “Shape of You” the song’s resemblance to their song, “Oh Why” Sami Chokri...

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Silk Sonic’s “Leave The Door Open” Wins Record of The Year at the 2022 Grammys

April 5, 2022

If you’ve been on social media for the past few months, odds are you’ve probably heard of the iconic viral hit, “Leave The Door Open” by Silk Sonic on just about every corner of the internet.

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5 Upcoming K-Pop Debuts To Watch For 2022

April 2, 2022

Debut: April 2022 After having competed on the reality survival show, “My Teenage Girl”, the seven-member group CLASS:y was formed, signing a seven-year contract with label, M25. The group was...

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Here’s What You Need To Know About Queendom 2

April 1, 2022

Queendom returned for its long awaited second season (hosted by Girls Generation’s Tayeon) and here’s all you need to know: Queendom is a South Korean reality-survival show in which six girl groups...

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Bobby Shmurda Is Finally Out Of His Epic Deal

April 7, 2022

Bobby Shmurda has finally been released from his deal with Epic Records following his own plea for his release on social media stating, “I did six years in jail trying to get off this label before...

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BIGBANG Make History With “Still Life” Comeback After 4-Year Hiatus

April 5, 2022

Alas, BIGBANG have finally made their long-awaited return to the spotlight with their new single, “Still Life” – a heartfelt ballad about the perils of growing up and learning from your past. As...

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Kendrick Lamar's GNX: A Bold New Era

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Kendrick Lamar has once again captivated the music world with the unexpected release of his sixth studio album, GNX, on November 22, 2024. This surprise drop marks his first full-length project since 2022's Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers and his inaugural album after departing from Top Dawg Entertainment.

A Nod to the Past: The Significance of 'GNX'

The album's title, GNX, pays homage to the 1987 Buick Grand National Experimental—a car Lamar recently acquired and one that holds personal significance, as his father used the same model to bring him home from the hospital after his birth. This connection underscores the album's exploration of heritage and personal history.

Diverse Collaborations and Production

GNX boasts a rich tapestry of collaborations, featuring uncredited appearances from artists such as SZA, Kamasi Washington, and Roddy Ricch. The production is helmed by notable figures including Jack Antonoff and Sounwave, blending elements of G-funk, hyphy, and even mariachi to create a vibrant and eclectic soundscape.

Standout Tracks and Themes

The album opens with "Wacced Out Murals," where Lamar addresses his recent feud with Drake and reflects on his upcoming Super Bowl halftime performance. Another highlight, "Squabble Up," expands on a snippet from his "Not Like Us" video, showcasing Lamar's dynamic delivery and integration of California rap styles. The track channels a carefree and rebellious spirit, reminiscent of 2Pac's defiant attitude.

Critical Reception

Critics have lauded GNX for its bold experimentation and introspective lyricism. Pitchfork praised "Squabble Up" for its vibrant fusion of genres and Lamar's masterful performance, noting that the track "feels as though he's channelling the ghosts of West Coast rap royalty."

A Year of Triumphs

The release of GNX caps a remarkable year for Lamar. His diss track "Not Like Us" secured his first solo number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and played a significant role in him being chosen for the Super Bowl halftime show.

Additionally, Lamar's strategic moves and exceptional artistry have kept him at the forefront of the music scene, proving that impact doesn't rely solely on album releases.

Conclusion

With GNX, Kendrick Lamar reaffirms his position as a visionary artist unafraid to push boundaries. The album's surprise release, diverse collaborations, and introspective themes offer a compelling addition to his discography, leaving fans and cr