Kendrick Lamar’s “GNX”: A Spotlight on Los Angeles’ Rich Culture and Rising Stars
by Matthew Becerra
With the surprise release of GNX, Kendrick Lamar continues to solidify his legacy as not just a lyrical genius but a curator of Los Angeles culture. The album, a love letter to his hometown, features an array of artists who embody the city’s multifaceted identity. From Compton’s hard-hitting lyricists to South Central’s rising stars and a nod to the region’s Latine roots, GNX elevates voices that represent the heart of L.A.
The album’s opener, “Wacced Out Murals,” sets the tone with the soulful voice of Deyra Barrera, a mariachi singer originally from Sonora, Mexico, now rooted in Los Angeles. Her contributions extend throughout the album, with tracks like “Reincarnated” and “Gloria,” showcasing the seamless blend of traditional Mexican sounds and modern hip-hop. Barrera’s presence highlights not just the global appeal of música mexicana but its integral role in shaping Los Angeles’ cultural fabric.
From South Central, AzChike brings his aggressive, trunk-rattling energy to “Peekaboo.” Known for his raw delivery and viral hits like “Burn Rubber Again,” AzChike represents the gritty, unfiltered sound of the modern West Coast. His work with local collectives and collaborations with artists like Rucci and 1TakeJay have made him a cornerstone of L.A.’s underground scene. This year, AzChike also made waves with his feature on ScHoolboy Q’s Blue Lips, a critically acclaimed project hailed as an album of the year contender, further cementing his status as one of the West Coast’s most dynamic voices.
Authenticity and resilience shine through voices like Dody6, who lends his perspective to “Hey Now.” His verses reflect the challenges of inner-city life, delivering impactful bars over hard-hitting beats.
“Dodger Blue” pairs Wallie the Sensei with Siete7x, both artists drawing from their roots to craft a track that feels like a love letter to their city. Wallie’s emotional storytelling and melodic hooks, alongside Siete7x’s raw energy, capture the struggles and triumphs of life in L.A.’s neighborhoods. Wallie, in particular, has built a name with heartfelt tracks like “Scandalous,” balancing street narratives with introspection.
Compton continues to shine with Hitta J3’s contribution to the album’s title track, “GNX.” Known for his breakout single “Do Yo Gudda” featuring Kendrick Lamar himself, Hitta J3 represents the enduring legacy of Compton’s role in shaping West Coast hip-hop. Alongside him on the track are YoungThreat and Peysoh, who bring their own unique perspectives. Peysoh’s journey—from incarceration to becoming a voice for his community—adds depth to his verses, inspired by his late friend MoneySign Suede and his upbringing as a first-generation Mexican-American.
Further extending the album’s cultural reach is Lefty Gunplay, whose feature on “TV Off” reflects the struggles of life in Los Angeles’ surrounding areas. As a Guatemalan-Mexican-American artist, Lefty’s journey—from incarceration to being a staple of East LA—underscores the importance of representation in hip-hop. His dedication to inspiring others of similar backgrounds adds weight to his lyrical storytelling.
GNX is more than an album; it’s a cultural tapestry. Kendrick Lamar’s decision to highlight these artists—each deeply tied to L.A.’s history and neighborhoods—shows his commitment to lifting up the voices that define the city. From mariachi to modern hip hop, from South Central to surrounding communities, Kendrick weaves together the sounds and stories of a city that’s as diverse as it is resilient.
As Kendrick prepares for his Super Bowl halftime performance in 2025, GNX feels like a reminder: Los Angeles’ influence extends far beyond its borders, with artists who carry its legacy forward while reshaping it for the future.
