Kendrick Lamar: Good Kid, m.A.A.d. Classic

It's been 5 years since Kendrick Lamar's Aftermath debut Good Kid m.A.A.d. City hit the earth like a comet. 5 years later, music media and skeptical fans are finally opening themselves to the fact that the Compton kid's breakout opus is officially a Hip Hop classic. But why did it take so long? This week's piece delves into the overrated concept that time is a factor when judging a classic.
Produced, Shot & Edited By: Ahmed Sabir-Calloway / akthentik
Produced, Written & Hosted By: Justin Hunte / thecompanyman
NOTES:
HipHopDX Review: hiphopdx.com/r...
Pitchfork GKMC Review: pitchfork.com/...
The Guardian GKMC Review: www.theguardia...
TheNeedleDrop GKMC Review: • Kendrick Lamar- good k...
Spin GKMC Review: www.spin.com/2...
HipHopWired Kendrick Interview: hiphopwired.com...
Pitchfork Classics: www.albumofthey...
The Source Classic Albums: en.wikipedia.o...
Rolling Stone 100 Greatest Debut Albums: www.rollingston...
Complex How GKMC Changed Hip Hop: www.complex.com...
DJ Booth Why GKMC Is A Classic: djbooth.net/new...
Dead End Hip Hop GKMC Review: • Kendrick Lamar - good...
ABOUT TCM:
Life Through The Lens of Hip Hop.
Justin Hunte is a former Editor-in-Chief of HipHopDX and creator of DX's popular series The Breakdown and #DXLive. Hunte has debated at the prestigious Oxford Union and is featured on Shade45's "All Out Show w/ Rude Jude," as well as Revolt TV’s “Revolt Live” Billboard magazine, digital campaigns for Lexus, Honda, Brisk, and Simple Mobile. Prior to joining HipHopDX, Hunte spent 5 years working in investment banking at Banc Of America/Merrill Lynch and has covered music, politics, and culture for numerous publications. He is currently based in Los Angeles, California.
Follow @TheCompanyMan on all socials.

[@BlackySpeakz]

What a great discussion. Love this one!

[@TheCompanyMan]

Thanks brother!

[@AnimeProfilePicture]

Two great youtube channels conversing.. my mind is blown

[@richchigga41]

BlackySpeakz cornball

[@mahtabgill5404]

@@richchigga41 u gay

[@TrinikidHBK]

Section 80 - Not sure. Classic to me GKMC - Classic TPAB - One of the greatest Hip Hop Albums I've ever heard. Classic DAMN - Nitpicked to death but amazing to me. Arguable

[@aiden359]

TriniKidNYC You again! 😂

[@troycummings709]

TPAB overrated in the context of his discography. Good Kid Maad City >

[@ashtonparker8901]

GKMC is his best and a top 5 album ever to me, Section 80 is a classic imo, TPAB easily a classic. DAMN. is hated by a lot but it’s arguable like you said, it is to me. I like the different approach.

[@TrinikidHBK]

Aiden G lol yo are you tracking me?

[@aiden359]

TriniKidNYC idk man you always have the first comment on every video i click on lol

[@TreFKennedy]

And money trees is still 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@TheCompanyMan]

Probably my favorite joint on the project!

[@1724kingcobra]

Jay Rocks verse 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@SILMANTV]

The song I go back to the most

[@bigchris7709]

Rock killed his verse too.

[@STAVROS1801]

TreFKennedy jay rock nicki minajd that classic with his classic verse!!!

[@SantiBarrios]

Still my favorite body of work of his to this day, a true classic. The fact that he successfully made a conceptual rap album in this day and age made me admire him so much more.

[@elliottjones8354]

Beckham who r those by?

[@philkeis1]

Then he went ahead and made two more

[@samrichardson9621]

Beckham ..are you telling me those Logic projects are conceptual?

[@MattMatrixJohnson]

There were a fair amount of conceptual albums and mixtapes around the time he dropped. But I do think Kenny did it better than most, plus he had the push of two labels to make his more note worthy

[@jayrusso1589]

@King Savage fuck outta here

[@artdealerentertainment6812]

GKMC is a undeniable classic. Kendrick and Kayne are the only solo acts with 3-4 arguable straight classics starting from there debut

[@cai6972]

Art Dealer Entertainment Ghostface and DOOM have multiple classics

[@kvonmusic325]

Also don't forget outkast!!

[@artdealerentertainment6812]

Kaileidoscope I said in a row starting from there debut. Not total. I know Starks got classic but are they simultaneous?

[@artdealerentertainment6812]

Michael Davis they're first three are definitely classic but I said SOLO acts lol

[@AHHHHHH03]

Art Dealer Entertainment If we're talking about 3 Eminem

[@YouCallThataKnife253]

If you didn't realise that Good Kid, m.A.A.d. City was a classic as soon as you listened to it, then you were tripping

[@RoddyRodbb]

jippzmcghee exactly!

[@TheCompanyMan]

Fax.

[@amosengels6230]

Kendrick is my goat because he has something for everything: The Concept album in GKMC, The Concious album in TPAB and the commercial hits on DAMN.

[@RoddyRodbb]

amos engels nice

[@aizenzae4510]

CCC he done it all😂

[@TheCompanyMan]

DAMN is super conceptual too, which will resonate more over time. He's ill.

[@MrPranker247]

TPAB concept is probably my favorite.

[@amosengels6230]

The Company Man You'r right but before DAMN. came out people were saying like Kendrick doesn't have number 1 singels this that but now after track like Humble and Dna those people have to quiet down ( Love The Videos By the way now woth murs doing HipHop Dx I get 2 breakdowns a week!! )

[@MrKing8050]

Its the modern day Illmatic and 3 Feet High and Rising (with all the skits), it also has the my all time favorite Kendrick song "Real"

[@matttraverso4592]

MrKing8050 real is your favorite? Seriously?

[@MrKing8050]

Matt Traverso yea...problem?

[@charliethurston2358]

Real one of his worst songs lmao

[@Morgan-ws1ng]

Real is wack for kendricks standards, one of the worst on the whole record

[@jermainejey]

Aint gonna front, i never liked real at first but then it growed on me

[@nx6305]

Kendrick has 3, arguably 4 classic albums. And I'm not even a Kendrick fan like that.

[@jonathanbandiera196]

no

[@Commandosoap777]

Jonathan Bandiera section 80,gkmc,tpab .

[@louisgregoire3927]

GTC Revived section 80 ain't a classic, DAMN. may be a classic but it's too early to tell

[@TheCompanyMan]

Easy.

[@TheCompanyMan]

DAMN is absolutely a classic. It's the most listenable and the least reverential in his catalog. It's like his It Was Written. Plus there's so many hit songs on the project.

[@DavidRichardson95]

_GKMC_ is already five years old? I remember listening to it when it first came out. The whole album is exceptional and it still holds weight. Same for _Section.80_ and _Overly Dedicated_ too. That's how I became a fan of his. The rest is history.

[@anonuniversal364]

Overly Dedicated does not really hold up compared to his 4 albums imo. Section 80 is still fire though.

[@AndrewS-wj8be]

+AnonUniversal overly dedicated holds up imo. It’s wicked conscious and still had mad appeal

[@Jerry11201]

Section 80: Great GKMC: Classic TPAB: Masterpiece UM: Great imo DAMN.: Classic

[@aizenzae4510]

lil trashcan lol GOD is my least favorite but yea Loyalty was good bro. Lol Commercially, Damn. will be considered a classic because not only the hits but also the subjects in the songs of the album.

[@finnjeffrey572]

DAMN ain’t a classic

[@aizenzae4510]

Amanda yours is more complex and agreeable lol

[@jay-r6744]

DAMN is too personal and too from the heart to be a classic. It seems like just a cathartic release and that makes it a little bit messy. Still great tho.

[@CentinalxGaming]

SSJ5 Gogeta arent you the same person that shits on damn every chance you get tho?

[@keydaniels]

Fuck the critics. I'm from a hood in south Florida and I could 100% relate to the Comptom influenced skits, the sexual aspect, and the "vapid" hooks gave it that raw up and coming hungry feel. 5 Mic CLASSIC!

[@2k7digga]

GKMC?! CLASSIC?! DO YOU HAVE TO ASK?!?! Hell yes it's a classic!! Kendrick woke up a sleeping giant in conception, story telling, and lyricism. This has not been done since the likes of "Illmatic", "Midnight Marauders", or even "Aquemini". The cd took you on a day in the life of Compton teenage hijinks. It was the equivalent of blending "Doggystyle", & "Illmatic", with a slight serving of "Reasonable Doubt". That equals GKMC. We can argue this at a later date, but Kendrick is the second artist to debut 4 classics out the gate; with the first being Outkast. (DEBATE ME!!! Just kidding............sort of) You can't deny classic status on this cd. PERIOD. Great video, Hunte!!!!! (Give me my damn shirt already!!!)

[@nathanaelgabriel1921]

I'd say Kanye is the 2nd and Kendrick the 3rd

[@2k7digga]

I can't call 808 & Heartbreaks a classic. It was good at best to me. But I am glad we both agree on Outkast!! Respect!!

[@nathanaelgabriel1921]

Forgot to add DOOM if you don't count KMD albums. Doomsday, Take Me To Your Leader, Vaudeville Villain and Madvillainy. Those are arguably all classic.

[@TheCompanyMan]

That kid Kanye did a pretty great job with concepts. Ha! Thanks DJ!

[@kvonmusic325]

Digga Jones section 80 is a good album but not a classic, DAMN hasn't passed enough time yet

[@nicholaskatsikas4904]

Good Kid m.A.A.d. city is definitely a classic and stands as one of best coming of age stories done by any artist and in my opinion is up there with Illmatic and Ready to Die. Don't really get Fantano's complaints over the hooks since songs like Swimming Pools, Money Trees, Compton, and Backseat Freestyle are incredibly catchy.

[@Mackarony5]

I remember before To Pimp A Butterfly was released, everybody was asking "How is this going to live up to Good Kid?" There was an uncertainty around TPAB. Since then they've both gone on to be classic or a least be considered with the classic title.

[@STAVROS1801]

Will Alexander tpab got so much critical acclaim on the back of that hype alone it should be considered an Instant classic. Streets didnt eff with that album much tho. But then again... In 2015, Future had the streets on lock

[@Mackarony5]

Stavros.Hoelbling Very true.

[@GeronFletcher]

Definitely a classic. This is how you make a mark in the game

[@UnhealthyVegan]

Shout out to Feefo!

[@wwxxww6289]

FEEFO! Love that guy. Hes got the brains for analytics but he wears his heart directly on his sleeve. You always know what he's feeling and thinking and its his open, hype, positive energy in the mix that elevates DEHH's game to god levels. No Feefo, no show, for me (i mean everyone involved incl. Rod and Sophie bring their own necessary energy to the group, im just talking about Feefo's rt now. And hes awesome!)

[@AkaDanielSan]

GKMC and TPAB are definitely classics. I don't even think it's debatable.

[@marclivingston9201]

Facts

[@DawryMike]

Kendrick has not made a project I didnt like since overly dedicated. He is 100 percent my favorite rapper of all time and a critic like melonhead won't change that. Section 80: 8/10 .GKMC: classic/10 .TPAB: classic/10 .Untitled Unmastered: 8/10 .DAMN:potential classic/10.

[@EmmitElliott]

I really feel Section 80 is 9/10

[@DawryMike]

Bullsfan98 Definitely is

[@Commandosoap777]

Section was damn near perfect for me

[@aizenzae4510]

Bullsfan98 it will be tho lol.

[@DawryMike]

Bullsfan98 Hater

[@krishnansen1301]

I don't think sexual themes restricts an album from being a classic. Hell, Too $hort got 20 albums about pimping haha. And arguably 3 classics from that. Good kid is a classic in my eyes, but to pimp a butterfly is definitely my favourite Kendrick album. Much less promotion on that album and seemed more raw and less poppy. You made some good points about fear or regarding the album higher than it was when it came out. Maybe the Guardian would've lost credibility if it had ranked it higher. Maybe not. Same for Pitchfork. But it's an outstanding piece of art none of the less. And an outstanding discussion once again Justin. Lord know how you keep up this consistent quality content. Favourite hip hop channel by far.

[@TheCompanyMan]

EXACTLY! The Guardian literally took an album about a day in the life of a high school kid and said it was too horny. Whoever wrote that probably had an editor telling him what the rating was gonna be and had to find flaws that they didn't believe. Thank you KS! I really appreciate you checking for us every week. It means the world.

[@krishnansen1301]

The Company Man Any time mate, I mean how can I not check in when the contents this good?

[@midnightmenace8715]

The first time I heard kendrick's album in it's entirely I was blow away. The story, the beats, the lyrics, etc. I had a feeling deep down when listening like, "Dame this project is something special." I don't play this album everyday but when a song from this album is playing I have instant nostalgia, regardless of what the masses say GKMC is a classic album and time shouldn't be the judge our ears should.

[@Thirty3mad]

It's a classic!

[@TheCompanyMan]

Issa Classic!

[@jayrusso1589]

@BeeleeDatPleighboi 100 Yes

[@SleevezGaming]

Definitely a classic, still listen to it today. Wish I could Listen to it for the first time again

[@TheCompanyMan]

I haven't listened to it in a while before this week. Such a great album.

[@ChampD1012]

Questlove talked about how he preferred the 4.5 Mic Rating in The Source over the 5 mic rating. Because no album is perfect. 4.5 is a classic...and Good Kid MAAD City is a classic. It’s this generation’s Illmatic.

[@nickpaige9763]

great viewpoint. in my opinion though, TPAB is this generations Illmatic. one of the greatest albums i’ve ever heard, point period

[@martytu20]

Then what's the point of having a five mic rating if you're never going to reward an album one? Let's not get into why MMLP never got five mins at the Source.

[@ChampD1012]

MMLP didn't get 5 mics because it's not a 5 mic album...LOL...it's a 4.5 mic album though...Nas' career changed with that 5 Mic Rating in The Source...he chased that for YEARS...

[@ChampD1012]

TPAB is more Soulquarian than Illmatic so to speak...

[@nidla6391]

I agree that it's a classic, but this generations Illmatic nah son that ain't cool. Illmatic is untouchable period

[@tainoman1998]

Arguably, my favorite thing about Justin is that he says "I don't have the answer to these questions". He knows it's all subjective.

[@MrJBraham1]

I love how you called out the "Alt Right" of hip-hop. That's a perfect description of those not-budging tight asses! Good Kid was a classic to me when I heard it.

[@TheCompanyMan]

People hate seeing Hip Hop evolve. Which is super un Hip Hop.

[@JJ-fu7so]

The Company Man Hope you can answer this, its a bit off topic but do you see the new Shady Records signee Boogie going on to do big things in rap also? Maybe even competition with Kendrick? Would be fun to see the rivarly with two emcees from Compton, even if Kendrick is the veteran compared to Boogie

[@isaacsykes3]

Basically, what I gathered from this breakdown was the Source at its time was the most accurate and courageous publication reviewing hip-hop, and the critics now don't have the balls to trust their ears. Common said it best, "it don't take a whole day to recognize sunshine", Good Kid M.a.a.d. City was a classic the day it dropped and to wait five years to say as much is asinine.

[@johnosterberg5673]

Your entire rant from 7:13 on is so perfect and on point. "Every publication that failed to give Kendrick's Aftermath debut a perfect score or hedged against giving it maximum praise for whatever fear-based reason, should punch themselves in the face because the Compton kid unquestionably delivered a hiphop classic and we knew it! We knew it from the sound, we knew it from the level of skill, we knew it from audience reaction! We knew it when we found ourselves writing small critiques like, "You know what? This album has too much Dr. Dre.""

[@YomiAderin]

Justin, I must say: the moment you dropped knowledge about hip hop's own alt-right movement just blew my mind. I'll admit, I've been raised an old head, so my mental state has gravitated towards lyrical rap (RA The Rugged Man, Tech N9ne, MF Doom). However, I've been learning to appreciate/embrace the other aspects of hip hop. So, I'll just say thank you for this moment of clarity. Love your videos to death.

[@TheCompanyMan]

Alex Wilder thank you so much alex!

[@THEARCHITECT801]

GKMC told stories with strong/vivid creativity and exposed the savagery of the ghetto, while at the same time causing a lot of people to understand the psychology of gangs. GKMC also taught so many about the repercussions for living a life of crime, yet exposing the fact that many would do the same if placed or born in the same environment. Even if someone has never stepped foot in the hood, the imagery is provided through K-Dot's approach and lyricism. Kendrick continues to elevate our culture and push hip-hop forward. While I agree that too many ratings are biased in many publications, I believe that 10/10 is a case you can make for GKMC, that I wouldn't be mad at! As my dude J. Hunte says... "I might not agree, but I'd understand". Only thing is, I lean more towards agree in this case, haha.

[@ChanoWilliams]

"The Compton Kid unquestionably delivered a Hip-Hop classic." Yeezus that's fun to say!

[@intelligencecycle3523]

These publications shouldn't be taken seriously even local publication are getting a lot of albums wrong; the dichotomy and decoding on holding weight against Good Kid Maad City is cause of not having a backbone using almighty Power to shed positivity. Kendrick 3 albums good kid, TPAB, DAMN are classics from standpoint of popularity & quality in whom Kendrick offers to the listener. Whether he's confused emotional actions on Damn, tales of bloods & crips on Good kid, wishing people who pimping the struggle cause butterfly awoken non nurturing from nest in TPAB. He has audience critically thinking: I'm not even a big Kendrick fan I'm actually Freddie Gibbs supporter that was unbiased. Great video Justin hunte keep on rolling.

[@ananimeplace.3808]

Kendrick has 2 classics to me. Both TPAB and Good Kid are unquestionably classics. DAMN has potential to become one too. S80 is not a classic, but it was a good starting point

[@jayrusso1589]

Damn is a classic

[@etnovoj]

Shoutout to Feefo & everyone at Dead End Hiphop!! They’re dope as a staff, KZbin channel, & crew!

[@SILMANTV]

Section 80-Kendrick found his sound GKMC-Found his range and imagery TPAB-Made conscious rap bearable Damn-DAMN They are all arguably classics

[@conduitofthegospeldarrellb9154]

Kendrick Lamar SHOULD be in everyone's objective Top 10 in my opinion. Him and Cole knocked Common out of my top five favorites... I'm sad about it but the genre continues to progress...

[@AHHHHHH03]

Darrel Be WHAAT!!! Common is amazing though. Be and Resurrection are classics.

[@bryantbrown1213]

Darrel Be Cole is not now or ever been top ten

[@AHHHHHH03]

Bryant Brown well you know to some he is

[@bryantbrown1213]

the chosen one That’s fair bro and that’s good for them he just isn’t there imo he only has one classic I can’t see putting him there

[@AHHHHHH03]

Bryant Brown you mean forest hills drive?

[@piecesofaman6419]

Kendrick got 2 classics. This and To pimp a butterfly. Both pushed rap as a genre further and broke common misconceptions of rap. Basically...it's a classic. While section 80. & DAMN. Are still great albums.

[@jayrusso1589]

Damn is a classic

[@stefans.2317]

Those critic's aren't crooks, son. They just some overly cautious ones.

[@RunOfTheTrill]

Maybe this is just me, but GKmC ignited my appreciation for the new era of hip hop. I was a west coast hip hop head, and had pretty much given up on new hip hop in general since about 2007 (with the exception of some of my favorites such as Game, E40, etc). If I recall correctly, there was a lot of conflict in the genre about legitimacy of the new school around this time. GKmC gave me the courage to give the new school a shot and I was greatly rewarded for it. Outside of being a classic to me, it helped me believe that there were new artists worth listening to.

[@TheCompanyMan]

RunOfTheTrill thanks Trill. I think a lot of people feel the same as you

[@Lumbrett]

GKMC is such an incredible album. Sing About Me, I’m Dying of Thirst is still my favorite song ever by Kendrick Lamar. Great video 👍

[@Genesis_1984]

Recent classics Good Kid, M.A.A.D City Run the Jewels Sail Out Malibu

[@TheCompanyMan]

Malibu's amazing.

[@dhruvpathak1436]

I think this is one of the strongest arguments you've ever made because the old head ideas around what is, and isnt, a classic have gained total hegemony in hip hop. I think this rolls into probably the most hotly contested aspect in hip hop today--what objectively makes a classic hip hop album? Not only is there never a consensus which album it is, which is a very good thing because contradictions in opinions provide us the lifeblood for the debate to continue, we don't even agree what is category for which we can define classic albums by, which in and of itself is a beautiful contradiction that has led us to millions of think pieces, searching for the ONE objective answer, but forcing us to fall back on our subjective favorites. I think you actually discussed this a while back J, but people don't talk about it a lot but hip hop like evevry art form, greatness is predicated so heavily upon nostalgia - and nostalgia is so wide ranging and never the same for anyone, makes the most subjective arguments seems objective based in someone lived experience, while also going vice versa. Lots to think about but GKMC undeniable classic. Thanks for making this video!

[@TheCompanyMan]

Thank you, DP. Fortunately the discussion is infinitely fun!

[@flynnexe]

TPAB is definitely my favourite Kendrick album, but 'Sing About Me, I'm Dying of Thirst' will probably remain my favourite song of his no matter what. I believe a song like that on its own would make an album classic or at least worthy of respect. The fact that it's also on one of the best Hip-Hop/concept albums of the decade makes it a classic to me. I do agree with some of those reviews though that the album is exhausting. As to really enjoy the album, I'd line it up to having to dive headfirst into a swimming pool layered with cement. Either you break through and see why the album is so great, or you don't and leave extremely unsatisfied with a really sore head. It is a hard pill to swallow for some people.

[@snootch2nootch]

There is something to be said about being averagely reviewed with art. If you are hailed as a classic from out of the gate, be it Movie (Godfather), TV (Sopranos) , Music (Nas' Illmatic) then..history is going to look at you in this strong light going forward. If you are hailed as a failure out the gate, but time proves those people were wrong and you are great in movie (Take your pick...lets go with A Wonderful Life), TV (One Season and Done, eg Firefly), or Music (I want to cite 808s and Heartbreak cause its when everyone thought Kanye fell off and time proved wrong), then ...history is also going to give a shining light of redemption. If you come out and people take a middling stance cause nobody wants to jump the gun or be proved wrong, then you have people waiting a few years before making true declarative opinions so they can ride the wave of popular thought.

[@JonyALB]

Dang, another great video from my man Justin! I agree that time is an overrated factor when discussing albums' classic status. We all know it's all about *emotional depth.* Big up for including Mr. Melon himself, Anthony Fantano, in this video too. I'm always looking forward to Saturday. That's truly when it's all happening!

[@forformgamer]

Rap to me is something I listen to every now and then. It comes and goes, like most genres do to me. I think it's a thing that's quite normal for your every Dutch guy... This album to me is one of those albums I keep listening to, even when I'm not that much into rap anymore. It's an album that my girlfriend really likes, and she doesn't really like rap at all. Hell... My mother loves it! I think a classic doesn't have to have numbers to back it up, it doesn't need a certain group or culture to accept it. It needs to be something that pierces through to a point where many can't reach. Musically it's strong too! It's not just what people think, but a certain objectivity that persists in art in general. Being able to experiment and be diverse while having a strong sound of your own. I hear Kendrick in all of his albums, but I hear a strong variety through good kid, m.A.A.d city that is unique. No clue if my words mean anything to anyone, I just love to talk about this masterpiece :)

[@donteharris22]

Section 80.’s replay value is impeccable along with GKMC and DAMN. And he was still able to drop arguably 1 of the most important albums of this decade with TPAB. Kendrick got 4 classics bruh lmao my opinion tho

[@glennb.4294]

If Pirus and Crips all got along ...

[@DawryMike]

Glenn B. They probably gun me down by the end of the song

[@matthewdobler5684]

Seem like the whole city go against me everytime i'm in the street i hear yawk yawk yawk

[@e5141981]

Glenn B. Man down where you from nigga!!!!!

[@TheCompanyMan]

YAH YAH YAH!

[@spectrumchaser4343]

Good Kid MAAD City is my favorite LP of his and it’s most definitely a classic. While I do think time does factor into classic status, I think replay value has a bigger role. Most classic albums have something that draws you back to them. It could be anything: flow, subject matter or the beats. GKMC by Kendrick, Born Sinner by J Cole, and K.O.D. by Tech N9ne do that for me.

[@iluvkitanay6345]

Yeah...my go to Albums are "36 Chambers" - Wu Tang-Clan, "Death Certificate" - Ice Cube, "GKMC", "TPAB", "Everready" - Tech N9ne, "All 6s and 7s" - Tech N9ne. Those are the Albums I have on every device I own, to go to whenever I need to...and I think you are totally right...it is mostly based on replay value...plus relevance throughout the years...I think one of the best in this regard might be Ice Cube, since most of the topics he touched on "AmeriKKK's most wanted" and the following albums are relevant to this day. I mean...the man even predicted the LA riots back in the day! He is actually a person I would deem bigger than life.

[@TheCompanyMan]

KOD!!!!! That's what's up. "Trouble" is my joint, too. Born Sinner was definitely solid.

[@charliethurston2358]

It’s an undeniable classic. Everything from the narrative, production, concept, depth, lyrics, it has everything a hip hop album should have

[@janusallard]

Yo Justin, my boy. In my humble opinion, classic albums are albums that perfectly fathom the zeitgeist. GKMC, even though being my favorite album from Kendrick, is not the classic in they way I want it to be. DAMN. is way more of a classic than GKMC will ever be. DAMN. is KL’s classic because it breaks new grounds and perfectly summarizes the pop-hop in which we find ourselves today.

[@TheCompanyMan]

Allard Janus agreed. It's his it was written.

[@moose2066]

GKMC is a classic no debate...Joey Badass' mixtape 1999 turned 5 years too

[@abdulhamidketchman8599]

A lot to unravel here. 1. Love the cinematography in this video. 2. I slept on Kendrick because of my distaste of promoting alcohol in rap. (didn't realize until later it was the opposite). 3. Even when I did kind of like the song, I dismissed Kendrick again when I saw those flappy bird a$$ ears when he's falling in Drank video. I know it's petty but it's what happened LOL. 4. Same thing happened with Chamillionaire, I like his music until I saw his face, I was like DAMMNNNN. Still rocked with him a little though. #They see me Trollin! 5. KL is the best doing it in the game right now, making huge waves. I often think about the Tupac interview where he said he would spark the fire that will change the world. And Kendrick is the manifestation of that desire. He's the second coming, if he was shot and killed right now, he would be the next Tupac. 6. Lastly. Shout out to Lupe for making the waves of lyricist in the mainstream media. After the Soulja boy era of hip-hop. We needed Lupe and his influence to pave the way for our current consious wave in the mainstream. The Roots is a houshold name now. People want to be WOKE.

[@TheCompanyMan]

My favorite comment so far! Especially the Chamillionaire part. Look/Style/Swag/Voice play more of a role than we let on a lot times. We like to think of lyrics being the ultimate democratization of the culture, but truthfully how much we identify with an artists is a major part of all this!

[@abdulhamidketchman8599]

The Company Man Enough for some merch? Shooot. A closed mouth doesn't get fed. Haha I had to just be honest even if I get hated on.

[@setondriveable]

I'm 44 now. I can't remember how old I was when Kendrick dropped Good Kid but, I remember it restored my faith in hip hop. It's what made me start listening to so called mumble rap and other new stuff. I realized the past was the past and I should just move on. I wouldn't appreciate Ugly God, Uzi, and XXX if it wasn't for Good Kid.

[@ianburgess9141]

GKMC and TPAB classics for sure, also that fultz shade😂

[@TheCompanyMan]

He's gotta do better. Looking like the weakest lottery pick right now.

[@cruzscott4810]

Those fultz free throws smh 1st pick in the draft, not looking to hot at all😂

[@ianburgess9141]

The Company Man foreal tho, the only rookie im feelin rn is kuzma

[@aiden359]

TPAB showcases his talent more and therefore i think its better than GKMC.

[@TheCompanyMan]

Think it's more listenable? I love TPAB. I definitely listened to it less than GKMC and DAMN. More than S80, tho.

[@aizenzae4510]

The Company Man yes TPAB doesn't have that much replay value but its album that you can come back and check out every once in a while.

[@Dan21278]

I'd have to agree

[@BlackGodKing-oi2gr]

The Company Man Define listenable? Cuz some ppl love the sound of that album like myself where is DAMN and GKMC had to grow on me.

[@aiden359]

The Company Man To me it's just as listenable, but I will admit that it took me longer to get into than the rest of his albums. I think they're both classics and both great in their own ways, I also understand why most would favor GKMC. However, I do find DAMN. "listenable," but it doesnt carry the same feeling as his last two projects (not including UU, which I also love).

[@Jacob-yd7gd]

I'm speechless that Fantano's only gripe was with the hooks.... haven't watched that review in years, but when I first heard GKMC (my introduction to Kendrick) the hooks were one of the big things that drew me in. Still some of the greatest hooks I've ever heard across any genre.

[@brettrys1268]

Gotta say this might be my favorite video of yours to date. The way you put into perspective what reviewers at the time same and what the hit ratio for the Source for determining a classic actually is was incredible. Very well researched and written. Keep up the good work, man

[@TheCompanyMan]

Brett Rys 🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿

[@seanstroman6087]

Oh it's definitely a Classic even though we should give it about 5 more years of time so the Conversation can diversify for the next Generation I believe it is Kendrick Really created something special with that Album

[@vuyani9]

kendrick has 2 classics... gkmc and TBAP.. Section 80 and DAMN very good, but i wouldnt go so far to say they are classic

[@aizenzae4510]

isaac lol Damn. will be a classic.

[@jayrusso1589]

Damn is a classic

[@MalibuJoneZ]

Section80 - Nahh, it’s amazing but no where near as good as his other works, it’s his debut and he’s still got some improving to do GKMC - No doubt so much skill is shown in this album it brings music back to the album formula and everything is top notch from the beats to the lyrics TPAB - Generation defining this is one of hip hops greatest let alone one of Kendrick’s DAMN - arguably, it’s a amazing album better than many peoples best but it’s not his best, and it made a crazy amount sales PS if this doesn’t win Grammy for album of the year I’m 100% convinced that the grammies hate hip hop

[@DovertheBen]

I dont think the quality of good kid is comparable to any of the albums you named. Its truly excellent, and it did show everyone that introspective and complex rap could still make it in a sea of hype beats and obsessiveness over hooks, it shook things up not because it was revolutionary, but because of its soul and the dedication that helped shape its sound. It was a modern twist on the golden age, a statement of maturity over age. But the quality, to me, is not on the level of those other projects. In my opinion, an instant classic is to pimp a butterfly. Good kid needed the years.

[@damonasberry288]

This vid is so great! Honestly, I have to agree with you... we knew a classic when it dropped back in the day. I do feel that some of it is subjective but I do believe that still today, most people know when they have listened to something that they consider classic. With that said, Good Kid is definitely a classic! I also agree that The Source either got it wrong or were too cautious at times. I say that to say, ATLiens by Outkast will always be a classic to me and I still don't understand how it wasn't rated as such when it dropped. People have to stop being scared to voice their opinions, especially with regards to music, and most definitely when they are paid to voice said opinions! Again, great vid... props!

[@TheCompanyMan]

Damon Asberry thank you Damon. Agreed on all fronts.

[@benduffy6219]

Justin: "Pitchfork gave the project a 9.5, which is an incredibly high review for the publication." TRANSLATION: "Yo, just in case you don't read Pitchfork on the reg, they are NOT one of those stereotypical hip-hop review sites or magazines that gives perfect or near-perfect scores to every single album. Their average score is under 7, they give out very few over a 9, and they don't review a lot of rap to start with. A 9.5 from them is a big ass deal."

[@TheCompanyMan]

Exactly.

[@tayksintern]

Kendrick has 4 classics(section .80, GKMC, DAMN,TPAB) and there's no question to that,(I don't count UU)

[@ashtonparker8901]

I’ve been a Kendrick fan ever since Dre mentioned him and I researched some of his older stuff, but I think DAMN is arguable. We need to give it some more time.

[@Commandosoap777]

Kdot my fav rapper but he has one cult classic : section 80 ,classics :gkmc tpab, good albums :damn UU

[@Coolkid5800]

DAMN is not a classic and section .80 is debatable

[@aizenzae4510]

Nathan Adeleye S.80 is only a classic to us, his fans while, Damn. is not yet a classic but will be.

[@TheCompanyMan]

DAMN's a classic.

[@aaronjwallace501]

Thanks for rocking with DDHH!

[@imdankarlin]

Every rule has its occasional exceptions, but I personally believe that it takes time to determine a classic, generally speaking. Time differentiates what is an album's initial hype and what counts as a real cultural impact. Five years later, people are still discussing GKMC, and that's a solid indicator of a classic. I think Kendrick really hit the nail on the head with the term "classic-worthy". It's one thing for an album to be initially enjoyable to an extreme level, and it's another thing for an album to get under your skin to a point where it seems like there was everything before that album, and everything after it. Those two qualities aren't mutually exclusive, but you need the latter for the "classic" label, in my opinion. And the latter takes time. On a more personal note: GKMC helped me through a pretty major loss back in 2012, so I'm grateful for that album on that level as well. I'd also go as far as to call "Sing About Me, I'm Dying of Thirst" one of the best storytelling songs of all time, in any genre.

[@GeorgetheGreat]

Dam justin Breathe Yeezus! tbh it's a classic at this point. There's influence, impact, Quality, and Replay value. In the modern Era 5 years is a long enough time to Gauge an albums status I feel Like. And that feefo clip at the end ahhaa classic in it self. Great vid homie

[@TheCompanyMan]

🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿

[@Dukesucks]

I agree a lot with what The Needle Drop said especially about "Real". I'm not really a KDot fan but I think GKMC is his best album. tpab is a solid #2. Classics? Idk. Control System by Soul to me was a classic. I like reading old reviews to albums and seeing who hit/miss the mark in comparison to draft/scouting reports of athletes lol just to see how far off critics are. But at the end of the day music is subjective so people shouldn't be mad at someone's opinion of an album.

[@TheCompanyMan]

Agree on controlsystem. By the way, Duke's gonna win the national championship this year. Tricky Trevon Duval is coming full speed.

[@Dukesucks]

The Company Man Haha nah man, TarHeels boutta repeat! We got away from those sanctions lol so we're going to be focused all season!

[@centurysam1438]

In the age of streaming on your phone, it's literally the only CD I keep in rotation in the car, I and go back to it whenever the phone is dead or not with me at the time. This album is something special, especially for modern age hip hop. A classic indeed...

[@edwardchan6976]

"Hip-hop's alt-right." Damn, that deserves a "Yeezus!" GKMC def a classic, I think the conceptual feel especially when things sort of come to a climax in the middle of "Sing About Me, I'm Dying of Thirst" is part of what makes it so great. Also want to echo what Feefo said at the end about The Roots - Undun....to me that album is a highly underrated classic, it's pretty much flawless.

[@TheCompanyMan]

Edward Chan great album. Dx gave it a 5

[@thecoolestjewever9618]

GKMC and TPAB are classics hands down

[@GuillermoBello]

I mean, Fantano did give TPAB a 10

[@ThaLedg]

A true modern classic. This is the album I promote to every person who asks me what album is a great start to introduce them to hip hop. It's modern, accessible, lyrical , personal and the concept was done really well. The production was great, The features were great and versatile; a mix of modern artists and legends. Just such a well rounded and executed project. It is not my favorite Kendrick album but it's a 9/10. A classic through and through.

[@PresidentHeartbeat]

Justin is so right. The critics should be way more daring right from the start. Changing a good score to a perfect one is hypocritical because the music is still the exact same since the day it has been released. And the influence an album has should not be considered either for the same reason.

[@joseotero1232]

Another Saturday another great video thanks Justin

[@TheCompanyMan]

Thank you Jose!

[@Makwood99]

So Is Control System In my opinion it was the best of 2012

[@GeorgetheGreat]

Live.Love.Q love control system one of the best Hip Hop albums this decade but that album lacked impact. Not quite classic imo but still on of my favs

[@Makwood99]

GeorgetheGreat I agree I don't have an issue people saying GKMC Is better but people sleeping on Soul Like Fuck

[@Truthouzndonthate]

Soulo will always be the outcast giving the fact he's the only Black Hippy with no major label deal.

[@Commandosoap777]

Cult classic.

[@TheCompanyMan]

I LOVE controlsystem. Helped me through some very dark times.

[@wwxxww6289]

Damn, Justin that last rant was SAVAGE lol. I think a lot of GKMC's reviews were also hesitant bc of the Shock Of The New. Everyone knew they had something different and unique but, like u said, they were scared bc in Kendrick's case they were all trying to wrap their heads around it, to acclimate (Id give Fantano some slack in this case bc a) hes his own man, and b) Fantano's famous for saying exactly what hes feeling about an album, which pisses off EVERYBODY, ha. As far as naming classics from the drop point, idk how much he cares abt that, but he knows what he likes and says so. Kinda like Feefo. Well, part Feefo/part C-Town IMO). But i remember struggling to grasp what i was listening to at the time. GKMC seemed so new and different. It took me a couple weeks to gain enough clarity to declare "holy shit this is REAL!" Same w Frank Ocean's channelORANGE. Same with Minutemen's DOUBLE NICKELS and John Coltrane's A LOVE SUPREME. Great show man!

[@mecomtcg]

GKMC is a classic. Hardly anyone in the game at the time told a story within an album. It really made conceptual albums more common. TPAB was an instant classic though. Probably in my Top 5 best hip-hop albums of all time.

[@SunnGenie]

GKMC made me fall in love with hip hop, its probably my favorite album of all time.

[@big0514]

I feel you Justin but you gotta let albums take some time... you mention the 90s but the 80s-90s allowed a platform for albums to have to prove themselves a classic... back then was it hot or not now let’s label it a classic... because of the bar the score, the chronic, doggystyle and all eyes on me along with others it means albums have to last the test of time.... and with how much faster and more we get music and just ig celebs we need to give albums time... or else uzi lil pump and other whack artists would have immediate classics Thatd be forgotten 1 year later... it’s fair to say good kid is the most talked about album in 2012 other than channel orange, both still live strong... personally I think after 5 years it is easily a classic and deserves to be called that..Kendrick’s debut lasted longer than the hype of drakes coles and many others and it’s still talked about widely today... good kid mad city is a classic I’m more excited to see how tpab is taken cause i consider both easy classics

[@TheCompanyMan]

BigA music media is better than giving pump a classic. We're talking about the final level of the art. The cats expert enough to even have a voice. It takes a lot of work. DEHH, TND, the guardian, pitchfork, all experts. Not pulling that final punch is hard for everyone.

[@big0514]

It def is I even said in 12 it’s hard to say this album isn’t a classic but it was the best I heard in hip hop... plus imagine If they all call classic and the album doesn’t live then would credibility be compromised??? Its an undefined scale of what’s a classic and what’s just a great album I don’t blame anybody for not throwing the final punch but after 5 years this album still matters especially with most projects not even lasting 6 months... let’s label it classic it’s def worthy enough and u do have a whole vid dedicated to it and I take your opinion seriously, I’ve even heard budden mention this album a lot ask west coast artists u know they’ll let you know it’s a classic shot they crowned kdot king after this album

[@Haanzi]

As someone who always argues you cant just name something a classic from the get and you have to give it time.... Justin has me rethinking my whole stance... this is why these discussions are so dope.. you the real one justin

[@jimmysullivan4443]

I agree with Justin, I feel like critics underrate albums because it's an easy position to defend, if you ever think an album should be rated higher, you're seen as a narrow minded fan boy, which is easy to call out, a great example is forest hills drive gettin 6.5s left and right, but still loved by many "hip hop purists."

[@WesleyRocco]

GKMC is a classic and it's Feefo approved. Great video Justin

[@dwatsiam92]

it bumps in the whip?

[@KaoticSteel]

Dejon Watson it bumps in the whip!!!

[@jordonkaus4622]

Can we have a Justian Fantano Break down?

[@TheCompanyMan]

Was just talking to him about a podcast. We'll see.

[@AndrewS-wj8be]

Justany Huntanto

[@hterbluc]

Anthony Fantano made a really good distinction about classics. Albums like this or TPAB are game changing, it takes time for it to become a classic. TBAP and GKMC will be classics but it doesn’t have to be right now and it didn’t have to be in 2012 or 2015 And it is important to note that Fantano gave TBAP a 10, one of the only 3 albums. AND AN ALBUM DOESN’T HAVE TO BE PERFECT TO BE CLASSIC! As a whole GKMC, is amazing, it’s classic, but it’s not perfect. Drake’s feature is weak, the opening track is weak, but it still deserves that decent 9, and it can still be a classic

[@tdwalk06]

Another great episode Justin...you should do something regarding underground classics...still waiting on a little brother/phonte episode and/or Big KRIT episode lol

[@chelsea6671]

I like TPAB a lot but really cant get through it all the way on repeated listens. That's only happened with one other album: Madvilliany. Good Kid i can listen to a million times and still get as hype as i did first go round.

[@TheCompanyMan]

What don't you like about Madvillainy?

[@chelsea6671]

The Company Man i like it now but when i listened to it the first three times i couldnt get into to it length wise. Production wise and content wise, i liked it, but it took me a bit to get used to all the short tracks. Now it's one of my favorite DOOM records but when i FIRST heard it i didn't dig it too much.

[@DPAFLESHER]

Counterpoint I'm not sure I agree with: Doesn't "classic" imply something to do with cultural impact? The overall reception and staying power of an album? That's why I can respect a media outlet being gunshy about certifying something as a classic in its first week. I think there is some fine difference between phenomenal art and a true classic album. It's easier to judge and critique art than it is to predict how something will resonate with an entire culture.

[@TheCompanyMan]

That's where the publications lose out to fear. They don't want to exalt something the culture doesn't approve of. So the next step is, "now that I think about it, I don't need that hook," or "Hmmmm, that feature downgraded that song." They shift to the technical to defend against the cultural.

[@DPAFLESHER]

Do you think that dichotomy is treated any differently in hip-hop vs other genres or other forms of art (film, literature, etc.)? REPLY

[@cameronray4107]

Dan Flesher Finally!!!!!! I have been looking for this exact viewpoint. GKMC is a terrific album absolutely, but isn’t a classic something that not only reverberates through the culture, but also stands the test of time? How is this classic when we don’t know its long standing impact?

[@darrickfranklin7096]

Dan Flesher well if you want to go there, idk about you guys but GKMC was like this generations first classic to me in that before GKMC nobody in the rap game was concerned about being the best or even having good overall projects at the time. Everyone started to look at guys like Drake, Meek, etc if they have such projects. Before GKMC people would look at Take Care as just a really great album but after GKMC people started to say stuff like oh that’s Drakes classic, Atleast this is how it was for me when I was in HS.

[@DPAFLESHER]

@Darrick Franklin Definitely (assuming you're saying the generation is the Kendrick, Cole, Wale, Kid Cudi, Meek, Wiz Khalifa era, etc., not Lil Wayne or T.I. or Ross). I would argue Cole and Wale have that competitive fire in them, but no classic album (although for sure classic mixtapes) at that point. I personally think Take Care is a classic, and that came out one month after GKMC I think? So it at least had to be on Drake's mind and his timing was just a little late. Two very different projects, obviously, but if Take Care wasn't what it was, idk that Drake becomes anything close to what he is today. I think that album bought him so much good will that he was able to put out a lot of as Joe Budden would say, Low Quality music like Big Rings and Started From the Bottom that still made it as hits that probably wouldn't have if anyone other than Drake made it. AND every unknown artist who featured Drake instantly became a name in hip-hop. If that isn't cultural impact, I don't know what is. I think both GKMC and Take Care probably had similar initial responses (for my peer group, Take Care was probably a little stronger), but my point is that without letting it breathe for a bit, it's hard to examine that cultural impact. Compared to like Fetty Wap of 2015. That album had like 6 huge hits on it, but idk that anyone now would argue it's a classic album. I feel like it might have been hard to distinguish that in those months Fetty was everywhere vs those months after Take Care was released. 'I might be misinterpreting your point, sorry for the long-winded response.

[@kj4771]

The only right way to discuss Kendrick Lamar is with as much hype as Justin whenever he does. You can't just be calm when you're talking about The Chosen One Dope vid, as always

[@emanuelnicholson8423]

I believe an album can't be deemed a classic until some time has elapsed. My definition of a classic is a superior album that creates a "class" of its own or, in simpler terms, creates a paradigm shift. That shift is not going to happen immediately; therefore, we can't deem an album classic immediately. Case in point: Aquemini. No one started mimicking 3 Stacks flows, harmonizing and dress code in 98 or 99, yet we see the influence from K.Dot's TPAB to Yung Thug's off-key singing and dress code. This is nearly 20 years later. It's clear that classic material needs time on its side.

[@Romezguide]

Classic album but Compton is my least favorite song for me it didn’t fit I would’ve put black boy fly would’ve been better as a closer

[@DawryMike]

Adolfo Romero jr sing about me I'm dying of thirst

[@Romezguide]

mikeframbo ig you didn’t like that song

[@e5141981]

Adolfo Romero jr totally agree with you it does not fit in the album at all, i say it only made it into the album because of dre, who i think is overrated

[@TheCompanyMan]

Dre was gonna get his credit! Ha!

[@Romezguide]

The Company Man they could’ve got a better ghost writer, that delivery and Flow aren’t even fitting for dre but yeah he had too by one way lol

[@TreFKennedy]

Good shit Justin, good kid is a classic , some albums you just know it’s a classic

[@TheCompanyMan]

Exactly. When you're in culture and know your history you can see where things are headed. Kanye calls it "visionary streams of consciousness." There's something to that. If you're not in tune, then you miss waves.

[@TreFKennedy]

The Company Man you know how they say hindsight is 20/20, I say foresight is 50/50, Because foresight is the ability to see the future and half of seeing the future is willing it into existence Justin

[@TheCompanyMan]

Brilliant, TreFK. Thoughts Are Physical.

[@TreFKennedy]

The Company Man exactly and I like how you spelled my name lol TreFK, JFK good shit 🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏽

[@naioki444]

Major music publications play it safe and are scared to be too critical of new albums by well-established and well-respected artists, and too scared to give too much praise to new albums by fresh and up-and-coming artists. They don’t wanna release a review that might be controversial. But about music reviewers not giving out perfect scores to fresh albums: Pitchfork have given perfect scores to fresh albums before. One I can remember is My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy in 2010. TheNeedleDrop has given perfect scores to three albums: The Money Store by Death Grips (2012), To Be Kind by Swans (2014), and Kendrick’s own To Pimp a Butterfly (2015). So even though they didn’t give Good Kid, M.A.A.D City a 10 (like it deserves), doesn’t mean they never do. I really like TheNeedleDrop as since he runs an independent KZbin channel, he don’t seem to play it safe, and seem to give pretty honest and unbiased reviews. But great video with good points as always! You have one of my absolute favourite channels at the moment.

[@blue-pi2kt]

So pumped to see this video, Justin. GKMC was incredible from first listen, you immediately recognize the absurd quality of it in the same vein as 'Ready to Die'. Keep up the straight fire as always, mate. Though slightly adjacently, it's almost odd to consider that Kendrick is talking down his actual classic album whilst Drake raps literally on the album that 'Views' was already a classic.

[@picadie8971]

i really want that wall

[@cdizzytv3753]

I Like DAMN! Way Bettsr Than Good Kid M.a.a.d City n 2 Pimp A Butterfly, Certainly Tho I Honestly Believe That Good Kidd M.a.a.d City n DAMN! Will Certainly B Classified As Classics In The Future Of Hip Hop Culture...

[@TheCompanyMan]

DAMN's my favorite Kendrick album.

[@coryjackson6944]

TPAB is one of the greatest albums 💿 of any genre!

[@introspect86]

TBD is classic too. Thanks Justin!

[@Rll_2206]

Top 10 tracks of the album 10) Black Boy Fly 09) The Recipe 08) Compton (ft. Dr. Dre) 07) Bitch, Don’t Kill My Vibe 06) good kid 05) Backseat Freestyle 04) Swimming Pools (Drank) 03) The Art Of Peer Pressure 02) m.A.A.d city (ft. MC Ehit) 01) Sing About Me, I’m Dying Of Thirst

[@FacelessPalmness]

What's the intro song

[@TheCompanyMan]

FacelessPalmness Statik blessed us with the exclusive

[@FacelessPalmness]

Thank you :D love the videos