What Is The Top 5 Kendrick Lamar Albums

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Kendrick Lamar Discography

'The Kendrick Lamar EP' (2009)
The Kendrick Lamar EP" is a self-released project by Kendrick Lamar, which marked one of his earliest forays into the music industry. Released in 2009 when he was still known as K-Dot, this EP showcases the raw talent and potential that would later define his career.

The EP consists of 15 tracks and serves as a showcase of Kendrick's lyrical ability, storytelling prowess, and unique flow. While the production may be more simplistic compared to his later work, the project still displays glimpses of Kendrick's storytelling ability and introspective lyricism.
Throughout the EP, Kendrick explores themes such as street life, personal struggles, and aspirations

for success with songs like "Is It Love" and "Celebration" providing insights into Kendrick's personal life and ambitions.

'Overly Dedicated' (2010)
"Overly Dedicated" is a mixtape by Kendrick Lamar, released in 2010, marking a significant step forward in his career and showcasing his lyrical prowess and storytelling abilities.

Throughout the album, Kendrick displays his versatility as an artist, seamlessly switching between introspective tracks like "Growing Apart (From Everything)" and more energetic, aggressive tracks like "Michael Jordan."
Collaborations with artists like Schoolboy Q, Ab-Soul, and Jay Rock add depth and variety to the mixtape, showcasing the collective talent of Kendrick and his fellow members of

the rap collective Black Hippy.

'Section 80' (2011)
"Section.80" is Kendrick Lamar's debut studio album, released in 2011. The album serves as a social commentary on the struggles and experiences of the young generation, particularly those growing up in urban environments like Compton, California. A concept album, it features lyrical themes delivered by Lamar such as the 1980s crack epidemic,

racism and the medication tolerance of the millennial generation.
Kendrick also delves into personal introspection, addressing his own struggles with self-identity, faith, and the pressures of success. Tracks like "Keisha's Song (Her Pain)" and "Tammy's Song (Her Evils)" provide poignant narratives of the struggles faced by women in his community, highlighting the broader social issues at play.

'Good Kid, M.A.A.D City' (2012)
Kendrick Lamar's good kid, m.A.A.d city" album tells the story of Kendrick's upbringing in Compton, California, navigating the challenges of gang violence, poverty, and peer pressure. The narrative follows Kendrick, who refers to himself as a "good kid" trying to avoid trouble, amidst the chaotic and dangerous environment of his neighborhood ("m.A.A.d city").

The album is structured like a film, with skits interspersed throughout, providing context and advancing the storyline. Kendrick's introspective lyrics explore themes of identity, faith, and the struggle to maintain morality in a corrupt world. Tracks like "The Art of Peer Pressure" and "Swimming Pools (Drank)" delve into the pressures of fitting in and succumbing to vices like alcohol and drugs.

The album concludes with Kendrick reflecting on his experiences and his desire to escape the cycle of violence and poverty while ultimately finding self-awareness and redemption.

'To Pimp A Butterfly' (2015)
Kendrick Lamar's third studio album, "To Pimp A Butterfly" incorporates numerous other musical styles spanning the history of African-American music, most prominently jazz, funk, and soul.

Tracks like "Alright" and "King Kunta" serve as anthems of resilience and empowerment, rallying cries against systemic oppression and racial injustice. Kendrick also confronts his own demons and insecurities in tracks like "u" and "Mortal Man," engaging in a dialogue with himself and his audience.
Throughout the album, Kendrick incorporates spoken word interludes and conversations with Tupac

Shakur, adding layers of depth and complexity to the narrative. He also explores themes of spirituality and redemption, drawing on his own experiences and struggles to find meaning and purpose in a chaotic world.

'Untitled Unmastered' (2016)
"Untitled Unmastered" is a compilation album by Kendrick Lamar that consists of previously unreleased tracks and demos recorded during the sessions for

his critically acclaimed album "To Pimp a Butterfly." Despite being described as "untitled" and "unmastered," the album showcases Kendrick's unparalleled talent and creativity.
The album features a collection of tracks that didn't make it onto "To Pimp a Butterfly" but still maintain the same level of artistic depth and social commentary.

The songs cover a wide range of themes, including race, identity, spirituality, and the struggles of fame.
Each track on "Untitled Unmastered" is marked by Kendrick's intricate lyricism and thought-provoking content. From the jazz-infused "Untitled 03 | 05.28.2013." to the politically charged "Untitled 07 | 2014-2016," the album offers a glimpse into Kendrick's creative process and the evolution

of his sound.

'DAMN.' (2017)
Kendrick Lamar's fourth studio album, "DAMN" represents a departure from the jazz-infused sound of his previous album, "To Pimp a Butterfly," embracing a more straightforward and accessible approach to production while still maintaining Kendrick's signature lyricism and storytelling.
Tracks like "DNA." and "HUMBLE.

" showcase Kendrick's confidence and bravado, while also addressing themes of identity and self-worth. Other tracks like "FEAR." delve into Kendrick's fears and insecurities, exploring the pressures of fame, mortality, and the state of the world.
"DAMN." features collaborations with artists like Rihanna and U2, adding to the album's diverse sound and influences.

The production is more stripped-down compared to Kendrick's previous work, allowing his lyrics and delivery to take center stage.

'Mr Morale & The Big Steppers' (2022)
Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers is a concept album that analyses and reflects on his life experiences during his therapy journey. Its lyrics touches on a variety of personal themes, including childhood and generational trauma,

infidelity, and celebrity worship. Primarily a conscious hip hop record, the album experiments with minimalist production while incorporating elements of free jazz, funk, psychedelic jazz, blues, quiet storm, R&B, soul, trap, and West Coast hip hop
The track "Auntie Diaries" references issues regarding societal and religious views of gay and trans individuals and those who associate with the

LGBTQ+ community with a story told by Lamar concerning his transgender uncle and cousin.

What is Kendrick Lamar's best album?

As an underground phenomenon Kendrick Lamar burst on the scene in 2003. The mixtape Youngest N**** in Charge was his initial personal introduction to the world on which he displayed his lyrical wizardry over an assortment of beats.

Kendrick Lamar has since gone on to refine and elevate his atristry and Rap music. However with eight studio albums I've contemplated and debated what is the top 5 Kendrick Lamar albums.

Top 5 Kendrick Lamar Albums

5- "Mr Morale & The Big Steppers" (2022) - Kendrick Lamar's most recent studio album, "Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers" illuminates the difficult sides of mental health recovery.

On songs like “We Cry Together” featuring Taylour Paige, we hear an aggressive and toxic conversation between two partners. And a song like “Auntie Diaries” demonstrates the pitfalls of growing out of negative learned behaviors, with Kendrick unfortunately using homophobic slurs when discussing the hardships that his transgender aunt faced in their family when he was growing up.

"Die Hard" is a nice mellow RnB and Pop song with a message of introspection and hope. The first verse is very Drake-esque with a rap singing smooth, melodic delivery from Kendrick, and the song contains a "sweet" post-chorus that is sung by Amanda Reifer. "N95" dives into complex themes, marked by a sense of disillusionment and self-reflection.

The N95 refers to the mask used during the COVID-19 pandemic, but metaphorically, it signifies a filter for protection or a shield against various burdens. The song has a plethora of zippy one-liners and humour with apiercing commentary on materialism and society.

4- "Section.80" (2011) - Kendrick's debut studio album, "Section.

80, addresses themes of race, poverty, and societal injustices, setting the stage for his later acclaimed works. Most of the album was written in Lamar's mother's kitchen and his tour bus. While recording the album, Lamar wished for it to be "as organic as possible, at times leaving songs unfinished for extended periods of time. The album is a remarkably light and thrilling listen.

It's strangely soothing to witness someone excelling at their craft. Kendrick's rapping on 'Rigamortus' showcases the raw talent Lamar would later become famous for. His flow is effortless, his delivery is captivating, and his wordplay is impressive, even at this early stage in his career. Section.80 showcases Lamar's impressive rapping skills, incorporates rich and idiosyncratic details, and

creates an immersive experience, making you feel privy to the artist's inner world.

3- "DAMN." (2017) - With its more straightforward production and introspective lyrics, "DAMN." delves into Kendrick's psyche, fears, and experiences, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. Much of DAMN. is written from the perspective of a Kendrick Lamar who grew up without a father to guide him

away from the sinful temptations outside his home. He bobs in and out of this perspective, but the repeated pledges to loyalty and martyrdom evoke the life and mind of a young gang member who carries his neighborhood flag because no one’s proved to him that he shouldn’t. On "Humble" Lamar flips the script on your typical braggadocio rap.

He acknowledges his achievements but warns against arrogance, reminding himself and listeners to stay grounded. Lines like "Sit down, be humble" became a cultural catchphrase. DAMN. is a masterfully crafted album and a testament to Kendrick Lamar's storytelling ability, musical innovation, and willingness to challenge himself creatively.

While it might not be a breezy listen, it rewards repeated listens and offers a rich tapestry of sounds and ideas.

2- "To Pimp a Butterfly" (2015) - Known for its fusion of jazz, funk, and hip-hop, this album explores themes of racial identity, systemic oppression, and self-discovery. It's celebrated for its ambitious scope and lyrical depth.

There's a staggering amount of voices on this record, and Kendrick singularly channels them all, slurring, tweaking, bending, and twisting his own voice to find the precise timbre for each speaker. Kendrick Lamar's "Alright" that is produced by Pharrell Wiliiams is more than just a song; it's turned into a cultural phenomenon. It gave voice to a generation's struggles, sparked crucial

conversations, and continues to be a symbol of hope and resistance in the fight for racial justice. Overall, "To Pimp a Butterfly" is a masterpiece of modern music, a groundbreaking work that transcends the boundaries of hip-hop and speaks to the universal human experience. It's not just an album, but a cultural landmark that will be studied and celebrated for generations to come.

1- "good kid, m.A.A.d city" (2012) - Kendrick Lamar's second studio album “Good Kid, M.A.A.D. City” sold 242,000 copies upon its debut, earning the highest first-week sales for a male hip-hop artist in 2012. It is the longest-charting hip-hop album in history. This album tells the story of Kendrick's upbringing in Compton, California, and is praised for its intricate storytelling, innovative

production, and social commentary. The track "Backseat Freestyle" by Kendrick Lamar is a high-energy track Kendrick raps from the perspective of his younger self, "K. Dot," a teenager living in Compton, California. “Backseat Freestyle” is so important: that youthful bravado is sort of silly, but it's a feeling that almost every teenager can relate to.

"Poetic Justice" featuring a verse Drake that is arguably on par with Kendrick's two dives into the complexities of love and desire. The song has a soulful vibe with a Janet Jackson - "Any Time, Any Place sample, creating a bittersweet atmosphere that reflects the complexity of the situation.Kendrick Lamar's 'good kid, m.A.A.d city' is fearless and brilliant, offering an unvarnished and nuanced

peek into the rapper's inner life. It seamlessly ties straightforward rap thrills directly to its narrative.