What makes The Heart Part 5 by Kendrick Lamar notable?

The Heart Part 5 garnered significant attention for its introspective themes and innovative use of deepfake technology in the accompanying music video, which featured Lamar transforming into various cultural figures. The single debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, affirming Lamar's impact on contemporary music and culture. Released on May 8, 2022, The Heart Part 5 marks Kendrick Lamar's first solo release since his critically acclaimed album DAMN. (2017). This track serves as a bridge between his past works and future endeavors, showcasing his continued evolution as a leading voice in hip-hop.

How many songs are on The Heart Part 5?

The Heart Part 5 has 1 track, running approximately 5 minutes.

The Heart Part 5

Kendrick Lamar · 2022

5 min · 1 track · funk

A reflective exploration of identity, loss, and societal issues wrapped in layered, jazz-infused beats and Kendrick's poignant lyricism.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Heart Part 5 — This track encapsulates Lamar's signature storytelling style, addressing complex themes of racial identity and personal struggle through vivid imagery and emotional depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

79 /100

Summit

Higher than 99% of albums we've rated

The track showcases strong writing and production, blending introspective themes with innovative soundscapes.

What we noticed

The track features a slow, steady tempo with layered instrumentation that includes jazz-infused beats and subtle background harmonies.
Kendrick Lamar's vocal delivery shifts between spoken word and melodic phrasing, creating a dynamic interplay with the instrumental backdrop.
The song's structure is built around a central theme, with verses that explore different facets of identity and societal issues, culminating in a reflective conclusion.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 9/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Addresses significant themes and showcases artistic evolution, linking past and future works.
Themes: racial identity struggle· West Coast legacy· personal loss reflection
Moods: Introspective· Dark
Career context: Released on May 8, 2022, The Heart Part 5 marks Kendrick Lamar's first solo release since his critically acclaimed album DAMN. (2017). This track serves as a bridge between his past works and future endeavors, showcasing his continued evolution as a leading voice in hip-hop.
Stylistic neighbors: Isaiah Rashad· Anderson .Paak· Saba

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

The Heart Part 5

Kendrick reflects on the weight of legacy and the burden of expectation while addressing the audience directly.

This direct engagement creates an intimate connection with listeners, emphasizing the personal nature of the narrative amid broader societal commentary.