This is a really really good album, but I don’t think it will have much “commercial” success. I know no one listens to the radio anymore, but I’m not sure any of these songs is a typical “single” that would get nonstop radio play. Not that any of that matters, this will be my #1 most played on Spotify at the end of the year.
I do, it’s just a dumb “old man….back in my day” take. Was hoping for at least one banger for the workout playlist.
I mean he’s absolutely right. There’s no “hit” records on this album but it’s packed with incredibly impactful songs. I feel like n95 is a decent song but it’s bottom of the album for me. Silent Hill is outstanding but it’s more a showcase for Kodak than serious Kendrick track
Mr. Morale maybe….feel like We Cry Together will be a social media meme. Bunch of folks acting out the lyrical exchanges. There’s no Good Kid Madd City or DNA in this album but it has way more consistency from top to bottom.
I mean don’t let my opinion on whether or not this album has any hits on it distract from the fact I think this high art. I cried when I heard Momma I Sober. It’s absolutely a beautiful work of art
Definitely don’t need radio hits or catchy hooks for an album to be a classic/high art. I just wonder if Kung Fu Kenny has transcended this. Makes an album of personal journeys but his fans turn those into radio hits. Going to be interesting.
I'd expect every song to chart (at least in the first week) just by how many streams every song on the album will get, even if the radio doesn't really touch much of the album. How many of them actually last and stick around is the question. It's not my favorite from the project (Mother I Sober would be the standout for me), but Die Hard seems like it's the most radio friendly on the album, so maybe that is the one that sticks around.
I did not, both are incredible but I don't remember a "pause and reflect" moment on first listen with those for some reason.
Even the songs he tried to make more accessible are incredibly dense. Die Hard is a solid option I think as well but this entire album is a think piece.
On my 5th or 6th listen, it’s just getting better and better each time. So many layers. I haven’t been able to sit down and look at the lyrics yet either. Looking forward to that.
Yeah, sitting reading the lyrics on the tv while the "big" sound system shook the house last night was pretty great. I'll be using the hell out of that app.
Man the further this goes the more I respect the bravery of being one of the biggest acts in the world and dedicating an album to healing and growth. Not just of one self but also insisting we all heal and grow. Mr Morale and The Big Steppers is a challenge to us all. It’s incredible that we have a mainstream artist that does what Kendrick does. it’s inspiring and it really sets the table for other artists to follow his lead
Currently listening for the first time. My take is the artistry and blending of art is legendary. I don't know what to make of his physical voice. On one hand, it kinda sucks so I admire him more for making the best of it and creating what he has and does. In the other, maybe I don't follow along. But if he had a voice that played as much as his intentions, oo-wee
I've yet to give this a proper listen. I've played through it while riding in the car, and I absolutely love it sonically. I need to dig into those lyrics though.
I didnt. And I regret that. That's a brave song. It's impressive. I'm glad he has more sway today than someone like gil Scott heron before. I thought his use of female duet was killer before, but this killed it. That song gave me chills in a good way.