In 2024, Kendrick Lamar pulled off what seemed impossible: winning hip-hop's biggest rap battle in recent history, securing the Super Bowl halftime show, and dropping GNX, a surprise album that might be the year's defining pop record. But this triumphant return wasn't guaranteed. Two decades into his career — well past the average life expectancy of a rap career — Kendrick faced a critical challenge: how to balance his legendary artistic complexity with mainstream accessibility. Songs discussed:<ul>
<li>Kendrick Lamar – squabble up</li>
<li>Kendrick Lamar – luther (feat. SZA)</li>
<li>Kendrick Lamar – tv off (feat. Lefty Gunplay)</li>
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The best (and worst) of holiday music in 2024

A podcast all about the making and meaning of popular music. Musicologist Nate Sloan & songwriter Charlie Harding pull back the curtain on how pop hits work magic on our ears & our culture. From Vulture and the Vox Media Podcast Network.