Kendrick Lamar Albums Ranked: Fan Favorites (2025)
Kendrick Lamar's discography is a universe of its own. Each album offers a distinct narrative and sonic landscape.
Fans passionately debate which releases stand as his definitive masterpieces. Today, we dive into Kendrick Lamar albums ranked, primarily reflecting that powerful fan voice.
We'll explore what makes these records resonate so deeply. Later, we'll also see how they stack up based on current engagement data, offering another view on the best Kendrick Lamar albums.
Ranking Kendrick Lamar's albums: The fan favorites
Here's how the albums stack up based on fan sentiment, community discussions, and overall buzz.
We're starting with the most beloved.
1. GNX (2024)
Kendrick Lamar's sixth studio album, `GNX`, arrived as a surprise release in late 2024.
It features notable guest appearances from artists like SZA, Roddy Ricch, and others. Lamar himself, Sounwave, and Jack Antonoff handled primary production duties.
The album, titled after the Buick Regal model, marked his first release after departing from Top Dawg Entertainment and Aftermath Entertainment.
`GNX` garnered widespread universal acclaim. Many critics praised it as a brilliant reimagining of West Coast hip-hop and a standout album of the year.
It achieved number one status on the US Billboard 200 and topped charts in numerous other countries.
Key tracks:
- tv off (feat. lefty gunplay)
- luther (with sza)
Securing the top spot in our fan-driven ranking, `GNX` clearly made an immediate and profound impact on Kendrick Lamar's audience.
Its fresh sound and potent lyricism evidently resonated deeply, solidifying its status as a fan-favorite almost instantly.
2. To Pimp A Butterfly (2015)
`To Pimp A Butterfly` is Kendrick Lamar's critically acclaimed third studio album.
Released in 2015, it showcased a rich tapestry of jazz, funk, and soul influences woven into its hip-hop foundation.
The album features an array of producers and guest artists, including Thundercat, George Clinton, and Snoop Dogg.
Lyrically, it delves into themes of African-American culture, racial inequality, depression, and personal struggles. Inspiration for these themes partly came from Lamar's visit to South Africa.
The album was a commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200. It also won Best Rap Album at the Grammy Awards.
Key tracks:
- Alright
- King Kunta
Holding a strong second place, `To Pimp A Butterfly` is widely regarded by fans as a monumental work.
Its dense lyricism and groundbreaking fusion of genres continue to spark discussion and admiration years after its release.
3. good kid, m.A.A.d city (2012)
`good kid, m.A.A.d city` is Kendrick Lamar's second studio album, released in 2012. It's often described as a concept album, narrating Lamar's early life experiences in Compton.
The album features production from renowned names like Dr. Dre, Pharrell Williams, and Sounwave. It also includes guest appearances from Drake, Jay Rock, and MC Eiht.
It was a major breakthrough for Lamar, achieving widespread critical acclaim and commercial success. The album debuted at number two on the Billboard 200.
Many critics lauded its vivid storytelling and cinematic scope. It received multiple Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year.
Key tracks:
- Money Trees
- Poetic Justice
As the third fan-favorite, `good kid, m.A.A.d city` remains a cornerstone in Kendrick Lamar's discography for many listeners.
Its compelling narrative and iconic tracks cemented Lamar's status as a masterful storyteller in the eyes of his fanbase.
4. Section.80 (2011)
`Section.80` is Kendrick Lamar's debut studio album, released in 2011 via Top Dawg Entertainment.
The album's production was primarily handled by TDE's in-house team Digi+Phonics, along with contributions from THC, Terrace Martin, and J. Cole.
It's a concept album exploring themes like the 1980s crack epidemic, racism, and the struggles of millennials. Guest appearances include Schoolboy Q and Ab-Soul.
`Section.80` received generally positive reviews from critics upon its release. It debuted at number 113 on the US Billboard 200 and was later certified gold.
Key tracks:
- A.D.H.D
- Chapter Six
Ranked fourth by fans, `Section.80` holds a special place as the project that introduced many to Kendrick Lamar's unique voice and perspective.
Its raw honesty and thought-provoking themes laid the groundwork for the monumental albums that followed.
5. Overly Dedicated (2010)
`Overly Dedicated` is Kendrick Lamar's fourth solo mixtape, released in 2010. It's notable as his first release under his own name, rather than K.Dot.
The mixtape features production from TDE's in-house team and guest appearances from artists like Jhené Aiko, Schoolboy Q, and Ab-Soul.
It was an important step in Lamar's career, showcasing his developing lyrical prowess and thematic depth. The project helped garner attention from industry figures, including Dr. Dre.
Songs like "Ignorance Is Bliss" particularly stood out for their commentary on street life and its consequences.
Key tracks:
- She Needs Me (Remix)
- Ignorance Is Bliss
Coming in at number five, `Overly Dedicated` is cherished by long-time fans as a crucial early showcase of Kendrick's immense talent.
Its placement reflects an appreciation for his journey and the raw potential evident even in these formative works.
6. Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers (2022)
`Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers` is Kendrick Lamar's fifth studio album, released in May 2022.
This double album marked his first release under his PGLang company and his final project with TDE and Aftermath.
It's a deeply personal concept album. Lamar explores themes of childhood trauma, infidelity, and celebrity through the lens of therapy.
The album incorporates elements of jazz, R&B, trap, and soul. It features narration by Whitney Alford and Eckhart Tolle, and guests like Sampha and Baby Keem.
`Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers` received widespread acclaim. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and won Best Rap Album at the Grammy Awards.
Key tracks:
- Count Me Out
- Die Hard
Positioned at sixth, `Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers` is an album that fans recognize for its vulnerability and artistic courage.
While perhaps more challenging for some, its introspective depth is valued by a significant portion of the fanbase.
7. DAMN. (2017)
`DAMN.` is Kendrick Lamar's fourth studio album, released in April 2017.
The album saw Lamar working with producers like Sounwave, Mike Will Made It, and James Blake. It features guest appearances from Rihanna, Zacari, and U2.
Categorized as conscious hip-hop, `DAMN.` also incorporates trap, R&B, and pop elements. It spawned hit singles like "HUMBLE." which became Lamar's first number-one single as a lead artist.
The album received widespread critical acclaim and commercial success, topping the Billboard 200. It notably won the Pulitzer Prize for Music, a first for a non-classical or jazz artist.
Key tracks:
- HUMBLE.
- LOVE. FEAT. ZACARI.
Ranked seventh by fans, `DAMN.` is recognized for its critical accolades and commercial impact.
While perhaps not topping every fan's personal list, its blend of incisive commentary and accessible sounds earned it a significant place in Lamar's catalog.
8. untitled unmastered. (2016)
`untitled unmastered.` is a compilation album by Kendrick Lamar, released in March 2016.
It consists of previously unreleased demos. These tracks originated during the recording sessions for his 2015 album `To Pimp A Butterfly`.
The album continues the exploration of politically charged and philosophical themes. It also maintains the experimental free jazz, soul, and funk styles of its predecessor.
`untitled unmastered.` received widespread acclaim from critics. It debuted atop the US Billboard 200 chart upon its surprise release.
Key tracks:
- untitled 08 | 09.06.2014.
- untitled 02 | 06.23.2014.
At the eighth spot, `untitled unmastered.` is viewed by fans as a valuable companion piece to `To Pimp A Butterfly`.
Its raw, unpolished nature offers a unique glimpse into Lamar's creative process during a pivotal era.
9. Black Panther The Album Music (2018)
`Black Panther The Album Music From And Inspired By` is the official soundtrack for the Marvel film `Black Panther`.
Kendrick Lamar curated and produced this project, which was released in 2018. It features a wide array of artists including SZA, The Weeknd, Travis Scott, and Future, alongside Lamar himself.
The album was both a critical and commercial success. It garnered numerous awards and nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song for "All the Stars".
It successfully blended hip-hop with African musical influences, fitting the film's themes and atmosphere. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200.
Key tracks:
- All The Stars (with SZA)
- Pray For Me (with Kendrick Lamar)
Ranked ninth, the `Black Panther` soundtrack is appreciated by fans for its cultural impact and star-studded collaborations.
While distinct from his solo studio albums, its quality and Lamar's significant involvement earn it a respected place in discussions of his work.
Kendrick Lamar albums: A look at popularity data
While fan sentiment paints a rich picture, current popularity data can offer another interesting angle.
This looks at an artist's discography through a different lens.
Below is a ranking of Kendrick Lamar's albums based on their popularity scores from available data. This reflects which releases are currently seeing significant engagement.
| Popularity Rank | Album Title | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | GNX | 2024 |
| 2 | DAMN. | 2017 |
| 3 | Black Panther | 2018 |
| 4 | Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers | 2022 |
| 5 | To Pimp A Butterfly | 2015 |
| 6 | good kid, m.A.A.d city | 2012 |
| 7 | Section.80 | 2011 |
| 8 | untitled unmastered. | 2016 |
| 9 | Overly Dedicated | 2010 |
Quick FAQs about Kendrick Lamar's albums
Q: What makes Kendrick Lamar's album `GNX` stand out to critics?
A: Many critics hailed `GNX` as a successful reimagining of West Coast hip-hop. It was widely considered one of the best albums of 2024 due to its innovative sound and Lamar's strong performance.
Q: How did `GNX` perform commercially upon its release?
A: `GNX` was a significant commercial success. It became Kendrick Lamar's fifth number one album on the US Billboard 200 chart and also topped charts in many other countries worldwide.
So there you have it – our journey through Kendrick Lamar's albums ranked.
We've seen how fan passion highlights certain records, while popularity data tells another part of the story.
Ultimately, the "best" Kendrick Lamar album is deeply personal. It's often tied to the individual experiences and emotions his music evokes.
Each album is a powerful statement. What does your own ranking of Kendrick Lamar's discography look like? Which album resonates most with you?