From Compton to Your Turntable: Kendrick Lamar's Discography Decoded

Hey hip-hop heads! Whether you know him as Kung Fu Kenny, Pulitzer Kenny or K-Dot, there's something that remains true – the one and only Kendrick Lamar is undeniably one of today's biggest music icons. Never one to be boxed in – he's a chameleon-like rapper, whose thought-provoking lyrics, intricate storytelling, and unparalleled flow has solidified him as one of the all-time greats.

It's time to grab your decks and drop the needle, and let's dive deep into Kendrick's studio album collection, from 'Section.80' to 'Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers', It's gonna be one hell of a journey. 

1/ 'Section.80' (2011)

Kicking things off with his debut studio album, 'Section.80' was Kendrick's introduction to the world. With tracks like "A.D.H.D." and "HiiiPoWeR," Kendrick showcased his unique storytelling abilities and social commentary. This album laid the foundation for Kendrick's future success. 

2/ 'good kid, m.A.A.d city' (2012)

Did you even live 2012 if you did't belt out, "BITCH, DON'T KILL MY VIBEEE" at least once?! Kendrick catapulted himself further into public consciousness when he dropped 'good kid, m.A.A.d city', which showcased his wide range from the cinematic storytelling of "The Art of Peer Pressure" to the infectious hooks of "Swimming Pools (Drank)".

3/ 'To Pimp a Butterfly' (2015)

From the iconic cover art to its searing exposure of racism, 'To Pimp a Butterfly' was the cultural comet that scorched the earth of hip-hop. From the soul-stirring anthem "Alright" to the funky vibes of "King Kunta" and the introspective journey of "The Blacker the Berry," it's no wonder this album snagged the #1 spot on the US Billboard 200 and won Best Rap Album at the GRAMMYs!

4/ 'untitled unmastered.' (2016)'

'untitled unmastered." was Kendrick Lamar's brainchild that hit the streets like a sonic storm. Dropping in 2016 with little no warning, it provided a captivating glimpse into the creative genius of Kendrick Lamar, leaving fans craving for more untamed greatness.

5/ 'DAMN.' (2017)

You might wanna sit down for this one. With tracks like "DNA." and "HUMBLE.," Kendrick Lamar didn't just drop beats on 'DAMN.'; he dropped jaws and shattered expectations. The aptly-named record isn't just a Grammy magnet; it also earned him the coverted Pulitzer Prize for Music, making him the first non-classical or jazz artist to receive the prestigious honor!

6/ 'Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers' (2022)

'Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers' is yet another mesmerising chapter in the rapper's legacy, seeing Kendrick put himself under the microscope as he grapples with overcoming his own prejudices and dealing with generational trauma and celebrity idolatry. From "N95" to "Die Hard", it's an unflinching record that prioritises honest storytelling at the heart of it all – a testament to Kendrick's reign as the undisputed heavyweight champ of the rap game.

So, there you have it, a rundown of Kendrick Lamar's studio albums and their impact on the music world. Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering his music, Kendrick's discography is essential listening for any hip-hop enthusiast. And what better way to experience these iconic albums than on vinyl? Trust us, your vibe definitely won't be killed when Kenny is on.

(Photo by Jason Koerner/Getty Images)