DAMN. cover

DAMN.

Kendrick Lamar · 2017

54 min · 14 tracks · funk · jazz · alternative hip-hop

A visceral exploration of duality, where introspective lyricism meets powerful beats and haunting melodies.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing with peaks
  • introspective moments of reflection
  • visceral exploration of duality
  • dynamic energy shifts throughout
  • engaging narrative-driven experience

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer straightforward, upbeat tracks
  • seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Cited as an artistic high point, it earned a Pulitzer Prize and solidified Lamar's reputation.
Themes
Black American identity· chance encounters· industry authenticity
Career context
Released on April 14, 2017, 'DAMN.' is Kendrick Lamar's fourth studio album, following the critically acclaimed 'To Pimp a Butterfly'. At this point in his career, Lamar was solidifying his status as a leading voice in hip-hop, having already won multiple Grammy Awards and received widespread recognition for his innovative artistry.
Stylistic neighbors
Isaiah Rashad· Anderson .Paak· Saba
If this clicks, go next to
Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers — Continues the introspective themes with fresh perspectives and evolving soundscapes.
Sounds like this from elsewhere
The Sun's Tirade by Isaiah Rashad — Merges personal reflection and social commentary with a laid-back yet haunting sonic landscape.
Care for Me by Saba — Delivers raw emotional narratives and complex storytelling atop intricate, atmospheric beats.
New to Kendrick Lamar? Find your way in →

Tracklist

New here? Start with "BLOOD.".

  • 1 BLOOD. Start here 1:58
  • 2 DNA. 3:05
  • 3 YAH. 2:40
  • 4 ELEMENT. 3:28
  • 5 FEEL. 3:34
  • 6 LOYALTY. 3:47
  • 7 PRIDE. 4:31
  • 8 HUMBLE. 2:56
  • 9 LUST. 5:08
  • 10 LOVE. 3:31
  • 11 XXX. 4:14
  • 12 FEAR. 6:54
  • 13 GOD. 4:09
  • 14 DUCKWORTH. 4:08

What to play next

This album is considered a Critical Peak in Kendrick Lamar's catalog. Cited as an artistic high point, it earned a Pulitzer Prize and solidified Lamar's reputation.

Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers
Listen next

Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers

2022

Continues the introspective themes with fresh perspectives and evolving soundscapes.
To Pimp a Butterfly
Go back to

To Pimp a Butterfly

2015

Sets a foundation of deep lyrical exploration and complex production styles.
Full Kendrick Lamar discography Where to start with Kendrick Lamar Artists like Kendrick Lamar
alternative hip-hop funk jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata