Kendrick Lamar released the “Squabble Up” video, the first visuals from his new album, GNX, sparking an Easter egg hunt through Compton and West Coast culture, with nods to hip-hop and R&B legends, Black cinema and more.
A visual ode to West Coast icons and Black cultural classics
The video was directed by Charles “Chuck” Kidd II, professionally known as Calmatic. In the opening scene, Lamar sports Dodger blue with a matching fitted cap, a clear nod to the World Champion Los Angeles Dodgers. A second reference is the 105 Freeway exit sign, a classic visual landmark to those in the greater Los Angeles area like Compton, Watts, Paramount, Lynwood or Downey Will, Vibe reported.
As dancers perform the Crip Walk and other West Coast moves, Lamar humorously sits in a chair reading How to Be More Like Kendrick for Dummies, framed by African American flags draped on either side of the screen. West Coast hip-hop legend Ice-T was also referenced in the shot, paying homage to his 1988 album Power‘s cover art. In the same scene, K. Dot referenced Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing, with a man sporting “hood” and “love” four-finger rings, reminiscent of Radio Raheem’s “love” and “hate” jewelry from the classic ’90s movie.
A celebration of legacy and bold artistic vision
From there, Kendrick honors late rapper and 213 member Nate Dogg with a life-size version of his 1998 album, G Funk Classics Vol. 1 & 2, Soul Train, Isaac Hayes’ 1971 Black Moses album art, the Compton Christmas Parade and more. GNX may have been a surprise drop for fans, but K. Dot was very particular in how he wanted the album to sound, boldly representing the sounds of West Coast hip-hop.
The new project has features from SZA, Jack Antonoff, Sounwave, Mustard, Kamasi Washington, Terrace Martin, Lefty Gunplay, Dody6, Deyra Barrera, the Mariachi star featured on three GNX tracks and more.
Since releasing his acclaimed diss track “Not Like Us” in May, Kendrick Lamar has had a standout year and is set to headline Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans in February.
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