A Timeless Classic vs. a Modern Attempt
Here's ads banner inside a post
Kendrick Lamar and Kanye West are two of the most influential figures in hip-hop history, with catalogs that continue to captivate audiences. However, 2024 brought a surprising twist: Kendrick’s decade-old good kid, m.A.A.d city (GKMC) outsold Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign’s new album, VULTURES 1. This achievement not only highlights the timelessness of Kendrick’s 2012 classic but also raises questions about the staying power of Kanye’s latest collaborative effort.
GKMC’s resurgence in popularity this year has been nothing short of extraordinary. The album reached the eighth spot among the best-selling hip-hop albums in the U.S. in 2024, even re-entering the Billboard 200’s top 20 earlier this year. Its longevity is a testament to Kendrick’s unparalleled storytelling and the universal themes he weaves throughout the project. Meanwhile, VULTURES 1, despite being one of 2024’s most-discussed albums, has struggled to achieve the same cultural and commercial impact.
Kendrick’s Championship Year
Here's ads banner inside a post
A significant factor behind GKMC’s ongoing success is Kendrick Lamar’s incredible momentum in 2024. This year saw the surprise release of GNX, an album that was both a commercial juggernaut and a fan favorite. Kendrick also made waves with a highly publicized beef with Drake, which kept him in the headlines. Add to that the anticipation for his upcoming Super Bowl halftime show, and it’s clear that Kendrick is having one of the best years of his career.
This wave of excitement has undoubtedly drawn attention back to his earlier work. For many fans, GKMC represents the pinnacle of Kendrick’s storytelling prowess, making it a natural choice for revisits. Songs like “Money Trees,” “Swimming Pools,” and “Bitch, Don’t Kill My Vibe” still feel fresh and relevant, ensuring the album’s appeal endures.
VULTURES 1: A Mixed Bag
Here's ads banner inside a post
On the other hand, Kanye West’s VULTURES 1 failed to achieve the same cultural staying power, despite initial buzz. Released as a collaboration with Ty Dolla $ign, the album features standout tracks like “CARNIVAL” and “BURN,” which earned their fair share of praise. However, the project as a whole received mixed reviews, with critics questioning its cohesion and artistic vision. Some listeners found it engaging, while others felt it lacked the innovation and emotional depth that defined Kanye’s earlier works.
Part of the album’s underperformance could stem from Kanye’s polarizing position in pop culture today. While his classics like Graduation and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy are universally celebrated, his recent output has struggled to match the same level of acclaim. Fans and critics alike are divided on whether VULTURES 1 will grow in appreciation over time or fade into obscurity.
Kanye vs. Kendrick: A Tale of Two Legends
Kanye West and Kendrick Lamar’s careers have always invited comparison, but 2024 has painted a stark contrast. Kendrick’s body of work, particularly GKMC, continues to resonate with audiences due to its raw authenticity and masterful storytelling. Kanye, once lauded for his groundbreaking creativity, seems to be in search of the spark that defined his peak years.
Even their relationships with other hip-hop figures reflect this dynamic. While Kanye has had a complicated and often contentious rapport with peers like J. Cole, Kendrick’s more enigmatic approach has kept fans guessing about his relationships in the industry. These differences only add to the contrasting trajectories of their careers.
A Testament to Timeless Art
The enduring success of good kid, m.A.A.d city over VULTURES 1 underscores a fundamental truth about music: great art transcends time. Kendrick Lamar’s ability to craft a deeply personal yet universally relatable album has solidified its place in hip-hop history. Meanwhile, Kanye West’s latest project serves as a reminder that even legends must continuously innovate to maintain their cultural relevance.
As GKMC continues to dominate sales charts and VULTURES 1 searches for its place in the hip-hop canon, one thing is clear: Kendrick Lamar’s legacy remains unshakable. His artistry continues to inspire and captivate, proving that true classics never fade.
