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The Most Overlooked Song on Kendrick Lamar’s GNX
Written By: Jewels Alexandria
(5 Minute Read)
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There is one song I want to highlight from Kendrick Lamar’s latest album, GNX—a track I feel has been completely overlooked and doesn’t receive nearly the praise it deserves. Personally, I believe it’s the best song on the album.
A Track That Feels Out of Place—But With Purpose
At first listen, this song almost feels like it doesn’t belong. But that’s the point. GNX was, in many ways, Kendrick’s response to critics who doubted his ability to create a “bop” album. (At least, that’s how I interpret it.) And to prove he hasn’t abandoned his incredible storytelling, he included this track—layered, introspective, and powerful.
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Yes, he uses a Tupac sample and cadence as part of the ongoing feud with Drake. But beyond the battle, this song stands as something deeper, more spiritual, more reflective.
Storytelling in a World of Short Attention Spans
Lamar’s storytelling is unmatched. And sadly, in an age where music is often reduced to catchy hooks and viral moments, this art form is slowly fading. But Kendrick—and a select few—keep it alive.
Yes, GNX includes Gloria and Heart Pt. 6, which both showcase his narrative strength. But track number six, “Reincarnated,” is different. It’s one of the most enlightening and thought-provoking songs I’ve heard in a long time.
Exploring Past Lives: The Theme of Reincarnation
The entire song revolves around the idea of past life regression—the belief that we are all recycled souls, reincarnated through different lives until our purpose in each is fulfilled. Once we’ve served that role, we die and return again in a new form.
The First Verse:
"Let's take it back to Michigan in 1947."
These opening lines set a scene so vivid, it feels like watching an old black-and-white film. Some speculate Kendrick is narrating the life of John Lee Hooker, the “King of the Boogie”—a blues musician whose story mirrors Lamar’s in subtle but profound ways.
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The Second Verse:
“Black woman in the Chitlin’ Circuit.”
“Had everything I wanted, but I couldn't escape addiction.”
There are several women Kendrick could be referencing here, but many believe he’s embodying Billie Holiday—the legendary blues singer whose struggles with heroin addiction were well-documented and heart-wrenching.
The Power of the Third Verse (Yes, a Third Verse!)
In today’s streaming era, third verses in songs are practically extinct. Listeners often don’t make it past 90 seconds. But Kendrick leans into the old-school structure—just like Tupac, who was known for multi-layered, three-verse songs with powerful messages.
The Final Verse:
This is where the song becomes something special—a conversation between Kendrick and God.
“I’m tryna push peace in L.A.”
“But you love war.”
“No, I don’t.”
“Oh, yes, you do.”
Kendrick’s ability to write from multiple perspectives is something worth studying. He paints this exchange so vividly, it almost feels like he literally heard God’s voice. Whether metaphor or something more spiritual, it’s compelling.
At first, Kendrick believes he has become the man God wants him to be: understanding, forgiving, wise. But God humbles him—pointing out his blind spots. Kendrick is resistant at first, but eventually opens up to the lesson.
“So can you promise that you won’t take your gifts for granted?”
“I promise that I’ll use my gifts to bring understanding.”
A Reminder of Why Kendrick Matters
This track is a masterclass in storytelling, introspection, and vulnerability. It’s just one of many that proves why Kendrick Lamar remains one of the most important voices of our generation. He takes deep, existential thoughts and translates them into something relatable, reflective, and ultimately inspiring.
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He reminds us that music can be more than entertainment. It can be purposeful.
September 26, 2025
