Kendrick Lamar‘s much-awaited presence on Playboi Carti’s MUSIC album has been a subject of intrigue for months. Hours before the early Friday release, coinciding with the eerie blood moon, only one Kendrick feature was confirmed on Carti’s expansive 30-track album. But as MUSIC dropped, it quickly became clear that Lamar had more to offer than fans had anticipated, with contributions to not just the track “GOOD CREDIT,” but also to “MOJO JOJO” and “BACKD00R.”
Lamar’s multifaceted verses across these three tracks add depth and intrigue to Carti’s already eclectic album. Known for his lyrical complexity and ability to weave personal and pop culture references seamlessly, Kendrick’s contributions take on a fresh dimension within Carti’s experimental soundscape.
The First Confirmation: “GOOD CREDIT”
Lamar’s appearance on “GOOD CREDIT” was the one fans expected, and it did not disappoint. The track, positioned near the middle of Carti’s extensive album, sees Kendrick delivering a verse that’s both cryptic and pointed. Among his trademark commentary, Lamar makes subtle references to ongoing events, including the controversy surrounding ASAP Relli’s accusation against A$AP Rocky, who was involved in a 2021 Hollywood shooting case. Rocky, who had faced assault charges related to the incident, was acquitted, and Lamar takes the opportunity to mention the case through clever wordplay.
On “GOOD CREDIT,” Lamar’s verse starts with a shoutout to “the vamps and the boogies,” before veering into a nod to Usher’s 1997 hit “My Way.” He also slyly incorporates a mention of the popular snack, Gushers. Lamar then moves into a discussion of jewelry, specifically Elliot Eliantte, a renowned jeweler, and quickly pivots to reference ASAP Relli. The line, “Eliantte go big, white-gold link fall on the belly/The emerald cut for hers and his, that bitch on point like ASAP Relli,” ties together themes of luxury, celebrity culture, and the ongoing drama surrounding the ASAP Mob.
Surprising Appearances: “MOJO JOJO” and “BACKD00R”
While GOOD CREDIT was the main point of focus, Kendrick’s unexpected contributions to “MOJO JOJO” and “BACKD00R” reveal his deeper involvement in Carti’s project. On these tracks, Lamar further showcases his ability to bring nuanced storytelling into Carti’s chaotic, often avant-garde sound. His verses are cryptic, laden with references to everything from “conspiracy theories” to his perceived rivalry with other artists in the industry.
One of the standout moments in his contribution comes during a part of the track where he reflects on the difficulties of fame, stating, “The hate get realer, the love get fake, but when you this great, that’s how you should like it.” It’s a poignant acknowledgment of the price that comes with success, a recurring theme in Lamar’s discography, and one that feels particularly fitting given the current climate of hip-hop and celebrity culture.
Subtle References: “Conspiracy Theories” and a Possible Nod to Drake
In another part of the verse, Lamar touches on what appear to be “conspiracy theories,” with the line “You got the wrong person,” leaving fans to speculate on the intended target. This cryptic line has sparked widespread discussion, with many fans wondering if Lamar is referencing his ongoing relationship with Drake and his legal battles related to the song “Not Like Us.” The idea of shifting dynamics in their relationship, especially after Lamar’s statement on “GOOD CREDIT,” suggests that this collaboration with Carti might be more than just a musical moment—it could mark a new phase in Kendrick’s career.
Lamar’s reference to being an “evil twin” of both Cardo (a notable producer) and Playboi Carti adds to the intrigue. By likening himself to an “evil twin,” Lamar positions himself as an alter ego in this creative collaboration, showcasing a darker, more reflective side of his persona.
Kendrick Lamar’s Evolving Role in Hip-Hop
As MUSIC unfolds, it’s clear that Kendrick Lamar’s appearances go beyond just guest verses—they signal an evolution in his role within the rap industry. While fans initially expected a direct continuation of his rivalry with Drake or another high-profile collaboration, Lamar’s contributions to Carti’s album suggest a strategic shift. Rather than the aggressive back-and-forth many anticipated, Kendrick seems to be embracing a more introspective and multifaceted approach to his artistry.
With his cryptic references and thought-provoking lyrics, Lamar continues to prove his status as one of the most talented and cerebral artists in the industry. His ability to blend pop culture references with personal reflections is unmatched, and his work on MUSIC highlights the depth of his creative vision.
Fans React to Kendrick’s Multiple Appearances on MUSIC
The revelation of Kendrick’s three separate appearances on Carti’s album has stirred excitement among hip-hop fans, sparking a surge of speculation and analysis. Each verse offers something new—a different layer to Kendrick’s already complex artistry. As fans continue to dissect his lines, it becomes evident that MUSIC is not just an album for Carti fans; it’s a collaborative project that brings together two forces in the hip-hop world in a way that feels both fresh and authentic.
Kendrick Lamar’s strategic shift towards more nuanced features marks a new chapter in his career. The versatility displayed on MUSIC opens doors to even more collaboration possibilities and reveals a more reflective side of Lamar that continues to intrigue his ever-growing fanbase. His presence on MUSIC is a reminder that Kendrick Lamar is an artist who consistently challenges expectations—whether he’s dropping a surprise feature, addressing public figures, or adding another layer to the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop.
