Kendrick Lamar has consistently been known as one of the world’s most prominent storytellers and a rooted artist in hip-hop’s fertile history. GNX is an immersion into 90s hip-hop and R&B-the golden age-sampling and interpolated with classics, drawing his modern-day narratives into the genre’s truly iconic past. The album feels like a love letter to the 90s, weaving in influences and sonic textures that bridge eras.
Tupac’s “Made N*ggaz” on “Reincarnated”
On “reincarnated,” Kendrick literally channels the spirit of Tupac Shakur, through a sample of the late rapper’s 1996 track “Made N*ggaz.” It’s not only a nod to the music, but also to his philosophy and influence. For a long time, Kendrick has drawn comparisons to Tupac based on their respective foci on sociopolitical matters, and on this track, Kendrick truly embodies the comparison. The sample forms the backbone of Kendrick’s lyrics, dealing with the regrowth, legacy, and resilience of the very traits Tupac embodied.
The production of the song reworks the ghostly strings and marching drum patterns in Tupac’s original; Kendrick’s delivery brings forth the defiant tone that characterised so much of Tupac’s work. At times, Kendrick’s flow echoes Tupac’s cadence, and “reincarnated” plays like homage and continuation.
SWV’s “Use Your Heart” on “Heart Pt. 6”
On the sixth installment of his “Heart” series, Kendrick reaches back to 90s R&B group SWV’s emotive ballad “Use Your Heart.” The sample emphasizes the track’s emotional weight, as Kendrick contemplates vulnerability, love, and self-awareness. The interpolation of SWV’s smooth harmonies is a nostalgic touch, lending warmth in contrast to Kendrick’s introspective and sometimes raw lyricism.
This sample works within the larger/themes of GNX, as Kendrick marries introspection and cultural commentary. Pulling the sample from a classic R&B track, Kendrick roots his narrative in a sound that speaks to the ears of 90’s music lovers while crafting something entirely new.
Nas’ “One Mic” on “Man at the Garden”
While not being an official sample, Kendrick interpolated Nas’ iconic “One Mic” on his song “man at the garden.” The track interpolates Nas’ energetic format, starting with a relaxed sound before building up into impassioned rhymes. Like Nas, Kendrick builds up tension and intensity with this format, demonstrating much of the inner turmoil and external chaos he describes.
Lyrically, Kendrick channels the essence of Nas’ message in “One Mic”: the struggle for peace and clarity amidst a turbulent environment. The title “man at the garden” could also hint at legendary performances or moments of reckoning, much like Nas’ reflective tone in “One Mic.”
Biggie’s “Kick in the Door” on “TV Off”
Kendrick boldly interpolates The Notorious B.I.G.’s 1997 track “Kick in the Door” on the assertive “tv off.” In particular, Kendrick flips Biggie’s iconic line:
“Ain’t no other kings in this rap thing, they siblings
Nothin’ but my children, one shot — they disappearin’.”
Kendrick’s delivery on this track oozes confidence, echoing Biggie’s larger-than-life presence. By invoking Biggie, Kendrick positions himself within the pantheon of rap legends while addressing challengers to his throne. The interpolation feels pointed and deliberate, a reminder of Kendrick’s dominance in the modern rap game.
The 90s Legacy in GNX
Kendrick Lamar’s GNX acts as further evidence that he is one of those artists who knows his history but walks into the future with innovative force. By sampling and referencing 90s classics, Kendrick situates himself as a torchbearer for hip-hop’s legacy, drawing inspiration from icons like Tupac, Biggie, Nas, and SWV. Each reference feels intentional, serving to enhance the album’s themes of lineage, self-reflection, and cultural impact.
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