How The West Was One

By: Erika McQueen
Music Critic/Founder of The Music Serket

By: Erika McQueen
Music Critic/Founder of The Music Serket

2024 will be remembered as the year of unfiltered truths. Reflecting on the artistry of hip-hop feuds, Kendrick Lamar has undoubtedly taken the reins as one of the best lyricists. His fearless and unapologetic critiques of fellow rappers have ruffled feathers, but they’ve also brought authenticity back to the art form.

Back in April, the feud among the "big three" (Drake, Kendrick, and J. Cole) began with a slew of competitive tracks. However, when Cole gracefully bowed out, the battle for the top spot boiled down to Drake and Kendrick. The exchange between Drake and Kendrick extended far beyond determining who was the better rapper. When Drake insinuated abuse allegations and released AI-crafted songs aimed at Lamar, the Compton-based MC was gearing up to deliver what would become detrimental to Drake’s career: Not Like Us.

Not Like Us has dominated the Billboard Hot 100, securing the #1 spot for an unprecedented 24 weeks—a first for any rapper. This achievement is a true testament to Kendrick’s loyal fanbase.

On Friday, November 22nd, the momentum continued. Lamar unexpectedly released his sixth LP, GNX. This album not only carries a nostalgic feel but also pays homage to his admiration for the West Coast, his birth year (1987), and his own lyrical supremacy. One of the most unique moments on GNX comes from the track “Rancho Reflections,” which features Tucson-based singer Deyra Barrera delivering a hauntingly beautiful mariachi refrain. Her voice, both raw and evocative, bridges the gap between hip-hop and traditional Mexican music, creating a standout moment that resonates deeply.Notable tracks include "Peakaboo," "Gloria," and "Luther," which features labelmate SZA. The standout track, however, is "TV Off," where Kendrick electrifies listeners with his shout: "Mustarrrrrddddd!"

Arguably, West Coast rappers had an incredible run this year, with notable album drops like Tyler, The Creator’s Chromakopia, ScHoolboy Q’s Blu Lips, and Vince Staples’ Dark Times, just to name a few.

As we approach the 2025 Grammy Awards, Lamar is up for an unprecedented five nominations for Not Like Us:

• Record of the Year: For "Not Like Us" and "Like That" (featuring Future and Metro Boomin)

• Song of the Year: For "Not Like Us"

• Best Rap Song: For "Not Like Us" and "Like That"

• Best Rap Performance: For "Not Like Us" and "Like That"

• Best Music Video: For "Not Like Us"

With GNX, Kendrick Lamar proves there are no limits to his creativity and artistry. He continues to reign as a trailblazer and one of the most influential voices in hip-hop.

By: Erika McQueen
Music Critic/Founder of The Music Serket

By: Erika McQueen
Music Critic/Founder of The Music Serket

2024 will be remembered as the year of unfiltered truths. Reflecting on the artistry of hip-hop feuds, Kendrick Lamar has undoubtedly taken the reins as one of the best lyricists. His fearless and unapologetic critiques of fellow rappers have ruffled feathers, but they’ve also brought authenticity back to the art form.

Back in April, the feud among the "big three" (Drake, Kendrick, and J. Cole) began with a slew of competitive tracks. However, when Cole gracefully bowed out, the battle for the top spot boiled down to Drake and Kendrick. The exchange between Drake and Kendrick extended far beyond determining who was the better rapper. When Drake insinuated abuse allegations and released AI-crafted songs aimed at Lamar, the Compton-based MC was gearing up to deliver what would become detrimental to Drake’s career: Not Like Us.

Not Like Us has dominated the Billboard Hot 100, securing the #1 spot for an unprecedented 24 weeks—a first for any rapper. This achievement is a true testament to Kendrick’s loyal fanbase.

On Friday, November 22nd, the momentum continued. Lamar unexpectedly released his sixth LP, GNX. This album not only carries a nostalgic feel but also pays homage to his admiration for the West Coast, his birth year (1987), and his own lyrical supremacy. One of the most unique moments on GNX comes from the track “Rancho Reflections,” which features Tucson-based singer Deyra Barrera delivering a hauntingly beautiful mariachi refrain. Her voice, both raw and evocative, bridges the gap between hip-hop and traditional Mexican music, creating a standout moment that resonates deeply.Notable tracks include "Peakaboo," "Gloria," and "Luther," which features labelmate SZA. The standout track, however, is "TV Off," where Kendrick electrifies listeners with his shout: "Mustarrrrrddddd!"

Arguably, West Coast rappers had an incredible run this year, with notable album drops like Tyler, The Creator’s Chromakopia, ScHoolboy Q’s Blu Lips, and Vince Staples’ Dark Times, just to name a few.

As we approach the 2025 Grammy Awards, Lamar is up for an unprecedented five nominations for Not Like Us:

• Record of the Year: For "Not Like Us" and "Like That" (featuring Future and Metro Boomin)

• Song of the Year: For "Not Like Us"

• Best Rap Song: For "Not Like Us" and "Like That"

• Best Rap Performance: For "Not Like Us" and "Like That"

• Best Music Video: For "Not Like Us"

With GNX, Kendrick Lamar proves there are no limits to his creativity and artistry. He continues to reign as a trailblazer and one of the most influential voices in hip-hop.