What makes These Walls by Kendrick Lamar notable?

'These Walls' received significant acclaim for its innovative blend of genres and poignant storytelling, further establishing Kendrick's reputation. The song was praised by critics, appearing on various year-end lists and contributing to the overall success of 'To Pimp a Butterfly', which won the Grammy for Best Rap Album. Released in 2015, 'These Walls' comes from Kendrick Lamar's critically acclaimed album 'To Pimp a Butterfly', which marked his rise to mainstream prominence. This track showcases Lamar's artistic evolution following his breakthrough album 'good kid, m.A.A.d city' in 2012, solidifying his position as a leading voice in contemporary hip-hop.

How many songs are on These Walls?

These Walls has 1 track, running approximately 4 minutes.

Released 11 years ago this October

These Walls

Kendrick Lamar · 2015

4 min · 1 track · funk

A complex tapestry of jazz-infused beats and introspective lyrics, weaving personal and political narratives into the fabric of modern hip-hop.

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Top tracks — play these first

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These Walls — This track serves as a poignant exploration of the struggles within personal relationships contrasted with broader societal issues, employing vivid imagery and layered production.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

77 /100

Summit

Higher than 99% of albums we've rated

The track blends genres with complex production and strong lyrical themes, showcasing Lamar's artistry.

What we noticed

Lamar's vocal delivery alternates between melodic singing and rapid-fire rapping, emphasizing the emotional weight of the lyrics.
The song incorporates multiple sections that vary in tempo and intensity, including a reflective bridge that contrasts with the more aggressive verses.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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: Breakthrough — 'These Walls' solidified Kendrick's mainstream recognition after 'To Pimp a Butterfly'.
Themes: California prison system· intimate betrayal· systemic racism
Moods: Introspective· Chill
Career context: Released in 2015, 'These Walls' comes from Kendrick Lamar's critically acclaimed album 'To Pimp a Butterfly', which marked his rise to mainstream prominence. This track showcases Lamar's artistic evolution following his breakthrough album 'good kid, m.A.A.d city' in 2012, solidifying his position as a leading voice in contemporary hip-hop.
Stylistic neighbors: Isaiah Rashad· Anderson .Paak· Saba