Good Kid, M.A.A.D City
by Kendrick Lamar
User Score
8.9

Universal acclaim- based on 2382 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,178 out of 2382
  2. Mixed: 49 out of 2382
  3. Negative: 155 out of 2382
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  1. Kmi
    Sep 10, 2020
    9
    Kendrick Lamar's 2012 record "good kid, m.A.A.d city" is really a staple on hip hop in the 2010's. The storytelling is strong on this album, and Kendrick somehow manages to turn very bitter experiences into an enjoyable record, which hides how dark and dangerous Lamar's youth was with catchy flows and very notable production. A compelling sophomore album that improves upon 2011's "Section.80."
  2. trulyunknown
    Mar 28, 2022
    9
    This album is absolutely amazing. I think it shows hood culture in a negative light. Demonstrating the hardships and showing how teenagers often get pulled into committing crimes and doing drugs. It feels almost immersive listening to the album, the story telling makes the album's world come to life. The production is amazing, and the rapping and features are great. Incredible lyricism,This album is absolutely amazing. I think it shows hood culture in a negative light. Demonstrating the hardships and showing how teenagers often get pulled into committing crimes and doing drugs. It feels almost immersive listening to the album, the story telling makes the album's world come to life. The production is amazing, and the rapping and features are great. Incredible lyricism, and overall just a great album.… Expand
  3. mckenniegoat
    Nov 22, 2022
    6
    .............................................................................................................overrated but still good
  4. Ishan
    Oct 24, 2012
    10
    Album of the year....anyone else agree?
  5. nirishan9
    Jan 4, 2013
    10
    Fantastic album. Really. Most of mainstream rap has become incredibly monotonous but good kid, m.A.A.d. city revitalized by hope. A compelling album that guides your from beginning to the end with an interesting story. Each song taken in context is simply superb. The beats are brilliant and Kendrick's flow and voice carry. The only lesser moment on the album is the closer Compton whichFantastic album. Really. Most of mainstream rap has become incredibly monotonous but good kid, m.A.A.d. city revitalized by hope. A compelling album that guides your from beginning to the end with an interesting story. Each song taken in context is simply superb. The beats are brilliant and Kendrick's flow and voice carry. The only lesser moment on the album is the closer Compton which seems out of place. Dr Dre's rap is the only guest appearance seeming to drag the album down. Real the track preceding Compton tells of a real man. caring for family and responsibility. Great listen.… Expand
  6. 2ndBMN
    Jul 9, 2015
    10
    The Great hip-hop album. That one the revitalised the genre and gave it a new life with impeccable wordplay and storytelling. The spacious and layered beats, the songwriting, the skits, the perfect way that the track-list is lade out. Almost 3 years later, no album came close to matching the conceptualized beauty of "good kid, m.A.A.d. city".
  7. Tribulations
    Jul 8, 2015
    9
    Great album all around deserves a 9.5/10 almost perfect IMO it worked perfectly with every beat and also all of the verses had deep meanings the chorus' had great work done on them **** don't Kill my vibe lol anyways it was amazing you should enjoy it if you like Rap.
  8. Farmermoe
    May 9, 2020
    9
    Top 5 Tracks: Sing About Me I’m Dying Of Thirst, The Recipe, mAAd City, 13itch Dont Kill My Vibe, The Art Of Peer Pressure
    96/100
  9. comradebrett
    Feb 3, 2021
    10
    This album is a hip-hop classic. Kendrick provides a story of his youth in Compton over great production. The album is very thematic and almost plays out like a movie when I listen to it. My favorite tracks are m.A.A.d city, Backseat Freestyle, Money Trees, Poetic Justice, and Swimming Pools (Drank).
  10. DelkoChateau
    Aug 28, 2023
    10
    A perfect letter to Compton. That's all I can say to sum this up, not only does it have songs that are still listenable and fresh today, but really it has no bad moment. Even 'Real' which people say is bad, still has an absolutely massive amount of appeal to me. The sophomore slump was truly avoided here in one of, if not the greatest albums from the 2010s.
  11. Dr_Ubersexy
    Oct 25, 2012
    5
    I really don't understand the hype, I've listened to it all the way through twice, and nothing really jumped out at me. The lead single "Swimming Pools (Drank)" was actually quite bad with the lyrics being nothing but what we've heard in nearly every other rap song ever, and some parts (including the hook) was really annoying. Luckily this isn't the case with all the songs, such asI really don't understand the hype, I've listened to it all the way through twice, and nothing really jumped out at me. The lead single "Swimming Pools (Drank)" was actually quite bad with the lyrics being nothing but what we've heard in nearly every other rap song ever, and some parts (including the hook) was really annoying. Luckily this isn't the case with all the songs, such as "m.A.A.d city" and "Compton". But the album comes off as mostly boring with lyrics that are clever but mostly unoriginal. If you like it, more power to you, but it really isn't as good of an album as everyone is raging about. Section.80 was better.… Expand
  12. RealHipHop
    Jul 11, 2013
    10
    Don't have really anything negative to say about this album. It is perfect. His story telling and lyricism is amazing. Every track on this is amazing. The producers made amazing beats for the tracks and the artists featured in the songs have Great verses too. I love this album, this is a CLASSIC. He talks about his child hood, struggle living in compton. You have to listen to this albumDon't have really anything negative to say about this album. It is perfect. His story telling and lyricism is amazing. Every track on this is amazing. The producers made amazing beats for the tracks and the artists featured in the songs have Great verses too. I love this album, this is a CLASSIC. He talks about his child hood, struggle living in compton. You have to listen to this album because this is one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time.

    Overall: 10/10 PERFECT    … Expand
  13. omniscient
    Dec 12, 2013
    10
    The production oozes Dre, and Kendrick's flow and vocal variance (e.g. m.A.A.d city vs. Art of Peer Pressure) contribute a more complex, multi-faceted approach to gangsta rap. GKMC is like no other album out there, and how it revived and evolved 90s hip-hop makes this an instant classic.
  14. BigBriggsness
    Jan 29, 2014
    10
    I can't imagine anyone with a half-way decent taste in music writing this album off as something less than extraordinary. Kendrick Lamar is standing up straight and ready to change the game, and it's only his first big album debut. His platinum album Good Kid, m.A.A.d. city is a game changer. His flow is versatile, his lyrics are real without succumbing to the boring, tastelessI can't imagine anyone with a half-way decent taste in music writing this album off as something less than extraordinary. Kendrick Lamar is standing up straight and ready to change the game, and it's only his first big album debut. His platinum album Good Kid, m.A.A.d. city is a game changer. His flow is versatile, his lyrics are real without succumbing to the boring, tasteless story-telling flow that many rappers easily fall in to. His content is refreshing, and a little (or alotta) executive production from Dr. Dre never hurt anyone, right?
    The album progresses like a short film. It is incredibly artistic and very real life, with an almost uncomfortable look into his personal life thanks to skits and phone calls from his mom. His struggle with faith, Sherane, and life on the streets of Compton are unfiltered and excellently told. There is no "throw-away" song.
    Stand out tracks on this album include: every song on the album.    … Expand
  15. ReviewByAnIdiot
    Aug 18, 2017
    9
    This album is really a book. A story with characters and progression with music to back it up.

    Kendrick Lamar is a storyteller in Good Kid, M.A.A.D City. From Master Splinter's Daughter to Compton, the story he tells through the visceral moments of conversations between songs create a vivid image of the world the main character inhabits. If you are a fan of rap, you need to listen    This album is really a book. A story with characters and progression with music to back it up.

    Kendrick Lamar is a storyteller in Good Kid, M.A.A.D City. From Master Splinter's Daughter to Compton, the story he tells through the visceral moments of conversations between songs create a vivid image of the world the main character inhabits.

    If you are a fan of rap, you need to listen to this album.

    Personal favorites: **** Don't Kill My Vibe; Backseat Freestyle; Poetic Justice; Sing About Me, I'm Dying Of Thirst; and Compton.    … Expand
  16. ddidid
    Oct 4, 2019
    9
    It deserves about a 9.2+ because it is literally Kendrick and he has TPAB bruh. This should be the album you have to listen to get into Kenny so yeah. Ahead of it's time as well.
  17. Momoki_02
    Jul 26, 2020
    10
    Every single track is fire, cant say anything bad about this album. .......
  18. HIPHOPREVIEWS
    Apr 21, 2021
    10
    A cultural masterpiece, Good kid, M.A.A.D city has explosive beats, perfect story telling, double entendre and creative rhymes. It's best song has to be M.A.A.D city with MC Eiht is an incredible song and very popular amongst Lamar fans. From top to bottom all song are great and chilling. Would recommend.
  19. That1Person
    Sep 10, 2021
    10
    Good Kid, M.A.A.D City is an intricate self portrait and wonderfully told story of a good kid in a mad city. The project explores interesting themes of growing up in the ghetto, that is Compton and what it's like dealing with such a difficult childhood. Every track explores something new and delivers every time. This album is a true work of art in my mind.
  20. WarudoDZ
    May 18, 2022
    10
    Just one another classic for Kendrick Lamar the goat, the greatest discography of al time
  21. decwilclay
    May 13, 2022
    9
    ‘Good Kid Maad City’ - Kendrick mastering the art of story telling, hit making and showing he’s ready to be the next up.
  22. swiftswift
    Aug 23, 2022
    10
    definitely his BEST album. a magnificent experience. kanye and him being the two best rappers of all time.
  23. omgrachel
    Oct 2, 2022
    10
    Holy Hell, the storytelling on this album is just absolutely fantastic. The way he put this cohesive story together of him growing up in Compton is fantastic. The songwriting and lyricism on this are so absolutely fantastic as well. The production on this album as well is fantastic and the way the songs work with each other is also absolutely great. The songs by themselves are amazing asHoly Hell, the storytelling on this album is just absolutely fantastic. The way he put this cohesive story together of him growing up in Compton is fantastic. The songwriting and lyricism on this are so absolutely fantastic as well. The production on this album as well is fantastic and the way the songs work with each other is also absolutely great. The songs by themselves are amazing as well and it has Sing About Me, I'm Dying of Thirst which holy, worst thing about this album is that drake's on it… Expand
  24. Tubbs
    Oct 2, 2022
    9
    Kendrick feels invincible on this album. The story, production and bars are all top-tier.
  25. JonBon
    Jan 9, 2023
    10
    Easily one of the best albums of 2012 and given this was only kendricks 2nd studio album and its alr a classic is shjeesh
  26. kaka_mota09
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    Amazing album, for me one of the best 4 songs run of all time with good kid, M.A.A.D. city, swimming pools and sing about me i'm dying of thirst, this last 2 tracks being top 5 kendrick songs with one music to party and other to cry in the shower, the skits are amazing too, but this is not a 10 because it has some bad songs like real and Sherane, the deluxe also is really good with now orAmazing album, for me one of the best 4 songs run of all time with good kid, M.A.A.D. city, swimming pools and sing about me i'm dying of thirst, this last 2 tracks being top 5 kendrick songs with one music to party and other to cry in the shower, the skits are amazing too, but this is not a 10 because it has some bad songs like real and Sherane, the deluxe also is really good with now or never beeing one of my favourite Kendrick songs… Expand
  27. Eminem
    Oct 31, 2012
    10
    An album to change a whole music genre. Much like Nas' Illmatic, it transcends all the influences from his favorite artists and simply creatively outdoes all of their releases in the last 10 years. By the way these rappers include, Jay-Z, Tupac, Eminem, Biggie and Nas.
  28. BrendanL
    Oct 26, 2012
    10
    This is the work of a true artist. This album is pieced together from one main theme: A day in the life of what seems to be 17 year old Kendrick. Kendrick does a great job of setting the tone of each songs with his unique voice. Backseat Freestyle is probably the best example of Kendrick putting himself into the mindset he once had as a kid who just graduated high school. The skits areThis is the work of a true artist. This album is pieced together from one main theme: A day in the life of what seems to be 17 year old Kendrick. Kendrick does a great job of setting the tone of each songs with his unique voice. Backseat Freestyle is probably the best example of Kendrick putting himself into the mindset he once had as a kid who just graduated high school. The skits are incredibly interesting even after countless times of hearing them. The skits bring the album to the level where it could almost be considered a concept album. This is a great rap album, my favorite of the year, and probably one of my favorites of the year in general.… Expand
  29. Knicksfan7
    Oct 29, 2012
    10
    Kendrick Lamar is a lyrical genius. He's already on a higher level than 99% of the "rappers" out there and he's just getting started, he's only getting better and better, from Overly Dedicted to the unique and genius work he did in Section.80 and now his first studio album Good Kid, M.A.A.D City is flat out fire. Kendrick Lamar is the future of hip hop. Go buy this album, this man deservesKendrick Lamar is a lyrical genius. He's already on a higher level than 99% of the "rappers" out there and he's just getting started, he's only getting better and better, from Overly Dedicted to the unique and genius work he did in Section.80 and now his first studio album Good Kid, M.A.A.D City is flat out fire. Kendrick Lamar is the future of hip hop. Go buy this album, this man deserves the riches that are surely coming to him. 10/10 hands down.… Expand
  30. blackwolf07
    Jan 26, 2014
    10
    A Hip Hop story that needed to be told, if only to keep other people from making the same mistakes that Kendrick did. It doesn't hurt that the album is masterfully crafted with great lyrics from Kendrick throughout its entirety, and high quality from the few guest verses as well. Every songs is great, but standouts include Money Trees, **** don't Kill my vibe, Good Kid, M.A.A.D. City,A Hip Hop story that needed to be told, if only to keep other people from making the same mistakes that Kendrick did. It doesn't hurt that the album is masterfully crafted with great lyrics from Kendrick throughout its entirety, and high quality from the few guest verses as well. Every songs is great, but standouts include Money Trees, **** don't Kill my vibe, Good Kid, M.A.A.D. City, Real, and the 12 minute long Think about me, I'm Dying of Thirst, the most powerful song on the album. Whether or not Kendrick spits the best verses on the reg is irrelevant when he made a much needed period piece that takes itself seriously enough to mean something, while still being a **** banger through and through.… Expand
  31. MajesticUterus
    Jan 12, 2013
    8
    Kendrick's lyricism is mind-blowing. His ability to paint vivid pictures through story-telling is unmatched since Biggie Smalls. It may be better. The production is perfect for Kendrick, and complements his unreal lyricism excellently.
    However, there are some repetitive phrases and choruses (see "Real"). The final track, "Compton", is a letdown. It finishes the album with a sense of    Kendrick's lyricism is mind-blowing. His ability to paint vivid pictures through story-telling is unmatched since Biggie Smalls. It may be better. The production is perfect for Kendrick, and complements his unreal lyricism excellently.
    However, there are some repetitive phrases and choruses (see "Real"). The final track, "Compton", is a letdown. It finishes the album with a sense of arrogance, (courtesy of Dr. Dre, who is featured on the song), rather than honesty, which seems to be a trademark trait of Kendrick. It's no doubt a great album, but the final track is a letdown.    … Expand
  32. coco16
    Apr 4, 2013
    10
    If there is such thing as a perfect album this would be it. Kendrick Lamar's debut album couldn't have been any better, the subject matter of living in a deprived neighborhood, riddled with drugs and gang violence is told greatly by Kendrick. The album as a whole is very cohesive and flows smoothly all the way through, listening to one track simply makes me want to listen to more.If there is such thing as a perfect album this would be it. Kendrick Lamar's debut album couldn't have been any better, the subject matter of living in a deprived neighborhood, riddled with drugs and gang violence is told greatly by Kendrick. The album as a whole is very cohesive and flows smoothly all the way through, listening to one track simply makes me want to listen to more. Kendrick's writing ability is quiet impressive, with some very introspective songs and also some songs about the harsh reality of living in the ghetto. Kendrick brings you into his life with this album and does an excellent job by doing so he puts the listener in his shoes. The production is flawless with great melodies and mixing. Overall this project is the definition of a master piece a future classic, the illmatic of the new era some would say, Kendrick again delivers another great project and has raised the bar for himself and all his hip hop peers around him.… Collapse
  33. RahulB
    Apr 18, 2017
    10
    BACK TO BACK BANGER'S in this album and the album has songs you sit down and think about, this album is his 2ND ALBUM and he already went off its crazy to hear this and then hear his future albums because you really see how he has never lost his talents. This album isnt flawless real and dying of thirst are a bit too long and it gets kind of boring because of how its different but it tellsBACK TO BACK BANGER'S in this album and the album has songs you sit down and think about, this album is his 2ND ALBUM and he already went off its crazy to hear this and then hear his future albums because you really see how he has never lost his talents. This album isnt flawless real and dying of thirst are a bit too long and it gets kind of boring because of how its different but it tells vital parts of the album which doesn't ruin this album, but then COMPTON just plays and GOD damn is it great way to end the album. i cannot recommend this album enough, just listen to it if you haven't already… Expand
  34. M64
    Jul 23, 2018
    9
    Amazing album by K-Dot. It features storytelling, powerful bars, and gives us a look of life in the city of Compton. This’ll most likely be a classic.
  35. zeroxxovich
    Feb 20, 2020
    9
    By far my favorite Kendrick album, he mastered his sound and created a cohesive masterpiece that defines and expands on what hip-hop has meant to him. The cohesiveness of this album cannot be understated, and the whole production, lyrical message, and especially the skits create such a clear image and journey through the listener's mind. There are few things I could say about this albumBy far my favorite Kendrick album, he mastered his sound and created a cohesive masterpiece that defines and expands on what hip-hop has meant to him. The cohesiveness of this album cannot be understated, and the whole production, lyrical message, and especially the skits create such a clear image and journey through the listener's mind. There are few things I could say about this album that hasn't been said before. GKMC can be overlooked now because of the critical acclaim that TPAB and DAMN have gotten, but listening to this album gives you a different feeling than either of those do. This is what the roots and origins of hip-hop should and do feel like in the 2010s. There are very few songs that ever get skipped by me on this album.
    Favorite Track: The Art of Peer Pressure / Sing About Me, I'm Dying of Thirst
    Least Favorite Track: Money Trees    … Expand
  36. Phiwe
    Aug 6, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Classic gives the audience a vivid picture of the streets of Compton with Duckworth's explicit lyrics and captivating voice, good story telling and perfect production.… Expand
  37. magic_jam13
    Nov 25, 2020
    9
    The sounds on this album are so dreamy I always get sleepy when listening and that's in a good way. This used to be my favorite Kendrick Lamar album buuut. But this still an amazing album like it doesn't have a single mediocore track they're all deep. The story on this album is the best he's ever done it's like watching a movie with your ears. standout tracks money trees, maad city,The sounds on this album are so dreamy I always get sleepy when listening and that's in a good way. This used to be my favorite Kendrick Lamar album buuut. But this still an amazing album like it doesn't have a single mediocore track they're all deep. The story on this album is the best he's ever done it's like watching a movie with your ears. standout tracks money trees, maad city, swimming pools, sing about me, poetic justice, backseat freestyle, **** dont kill my vibe, art of peer pressure. yea pretty much the whole album but the best has to be "sing about me" or "swimming pools".… Expand
  38. ThatOneGuy__13
    Mar 25, 2021
    10
    I absolutely love this album, the story is just brilliant, and Kendrick was able to tell this story without sacrificing the overall musical quality. not quite on the level of TPAB, but it is still brilliant, and one of the best albums of the 2010s
  39. JkXclusive
    Aug 21, 2022
    10
    Instant classic! Kenny started to make his mark here and showed why he was becoming the greatest in the coming years. A cinematic movie of an album.
  40. Jacksjus
    Oct 25, 2012
    9
    Other than the track with ft. Drake where the ysampled Janet Jackson, I think it's a very solid album. I will have to give it a few more spins before calling it a classic. You really can't gage what's classic until at least 2 years after the original release. If it's still in rotation in your changer or iPod then it's a classic. Great story telling and unique production. I really like howOther than the track with ft. Drake where the ysampled Janet Jackson, I think it's a very solid album. I will have to give it a few more spins before calling it a classic. You really can't gage what's classic until at least 2 years after the original release. If it's still in rotation in your changer or iPod then it's a classic. Great story telling and unique production. I really like how he got like 10 producers all on the same page. The album just flows tegether quite well, with an exception to the Drake assisted track.… Expand
  41. JRSnell
    Dec 10, 2012
    10
    if an album deserves a perfect rating, this is one of those rare occasions. good kid, maad city not only manages to transcend the rap genre through stylistic rhythm, beautiful cadence and witty lyricism, but successfully weaves a competent storyline into its narrative. each and every song is brilliant, featuring an insight into kendrick's childhood through skits and dialogue which bringif an album deserves a perfect rating, this is one of those rare occasions. good kid, maad city not only manages to transcend the rap genre through stylistic rhythm, beautiful cadence and witty lyricism, but successfully weaves a competent storyline into its narrative. each and every song is brilliant, featuring an insight into kendrick's childhood through skits and dialogue which bring realism to the sequences and actually give the impression that you are an outside viewer into his life for a brief period of time.

    the production throughout the album is brilliant in the way that it evolves throughout the songs, notably in     … Expand
  42. Gaston44
    Jan 22, 2015
    10
    Not even sure where to start with this. Kendrick takes Slick Rick's narrative style of rapping and takes it to the next level, applying it to his own upbringing. He manages to paint a very clear narrative of his youth, and his journey out of his misfit life. The production isn't too complex but it's just enough to allow the listener to focus on Kendrick's rapping style.

    Speaking about    Not even sure where to start with this. Kendrick takes Slick Rick's narrative style of rapping and takes it to the next level, applying it to his own upbringing. He manages to paint a very clear narrative of his youth, and his journey out of his misfit life. The production isn't too complex but it's just enough to allow the listener to focus on Kendrick's rapping style.

    Speaking about his style, Kendrick fluctuates between an adolescent, immature rapping style and a more mature one. It's very interesting and it allows for understanding over whether youth Kendrick or modern day reflecting Kendrick is rapping.

    Everything on this LP is well crafted and carefully thought out. I recommend you listen to the deluxe version, which contains 3 extra songs at the end which add to the narrative. I won't spoil anything, but they really tie things together.    … Expand
  43. imthecondition
    Oct 25, 2012
    9
    Laden with skit after skit all following a common storyline, Good Kid, M.A.A.D City tells a shockingly personal story about a 17 year old boy growing up in Compton, Kendrick Lamar himself. Whether it's talking about him apparent girlfriend "Sherane", peer pressure from his neighbourhood crew or his "repentance" at the album's end, Lamar effortlessly flows throughout each track with varyingLaden with skit after skit all following a common storyline, Good Kid, M.A.A.D City tells a shockingly personal story about a 17 year old boy growing up in Compton, Kendrick Lamar himself. Whether it's talking about him apparent girlfriend "Sherane", peer pressure from his neighbourhood crew or his "repentance" at the album's end, Lamar effortlessly flows throughout each track with varying styles while staying true to the trippy style he developed on his Section.80 album.… Expand
  44. Nebulous
    Dec 28, 2012
    9
    Just compare this album to any other mainstream rap album released this year. GKMC is close to a masterpiece - from lyrics, concepts, beats, features, structures to skits - everything is on point. Name another rap album that have included such a thorough, well-executed and structured story. It's like a "short film" as the cover art says. It makes you imagine the songs scenes in your head.Just compare this album to any other mainstream rap album released this year. GKMC is close to a masterpiece - from lyrics, concepts, beats, features, structures to skits - everything is on point. Name another rap album that have included such a thorough, well-executed and structured story. It's like a "short film" as the cover art says. It makes you imagine the songs scenes in your head. Every song is so deep and striking - even Swimming Pools, despite it's mainstream feel.

    A lot of rappers, e.g. Game, Dr. Dre, rap about the life of Compton, it's a common theme on West Coast hip hop, and Kendrick knew that, so he delivered his view of his home city in such a diverse and original way. In recent years there haven't been any hip hop albums that can be labelled as a "classic", but good kid, m.A.A.d city is almost one. This album deserves all the props that it receives, because there won't be an album like this coming again any time soon.    … Expand
  45. BIG-Dong
    Jun 21, 2013
    10
    The best recent rap album in memory, Kendrick Lamar combines lyricism, storytelling, and production masterfully to create an instant classic. The story, told immediately as the album begins, explores Kendrick's day in Compton. He delves into issues, such as gang violence, love (or lust), stereotypes in this day of a 17-year-old. The skits accentuate the songs, songs loop into each other,The best recent rap album in memory, Kendrick Lamar combines lyricism, storytelling, and production masterfully to create an instant classic. The story, told immediately as the album begins, explores Kendrick's day in Compton. He delves into issues, such as gang violence, love (or lust), stereotypes in this day of a 17-year-old. The skits accentuate the songs, songs loop into each other, and the beats between songs keep the listener hooked. The album itself is an experience similar to watching a great movie. Its only negatives are the hooks can be a little strange, and some may find his voice annoying, though these are very insignificant issues when looking at the album as a whole. Multiple listens are advised.… Expand
  46. Braxtonmanning
    Sep 13, 2013
    10
    One of the best albums I've heard from any genre. Kendrick Lamar just might be the savior hip hop needs. Best word to describe this album: Perfection.
  47. KingTommy
    Dec 6, 2013
    10
    This is a classic, arguably the greatest hip hop album ever. The album is a masterpiece, on the same level as Illmatic as far as albums go. Each song takes you on a journey. This is my favorite album of all time, regardless of genre.
  48. Tombenelli
    Mar 4, 2016
    8
    This is one of the greatest hip-hop albums ever. Yeah, that's true. Kendrick Lamar's lyrics tell us about his boyhood in Compton - with all the good and the bad experiences typical of the growth - while he raps over some damn well-produced beats. The flow is amazing, it changes from being smooth and relaxed **** Don't Kill My Vibe", "Sherane", "Swimming Pools") to being aggressive andThis is one of the greatest hip-hop albums ever. Yeah, that's true. Kendrick Lamar's lyrics tell us about his boyhood in Compton - with all the good and the bad experiences typical of the growth - while he raps over some damn well-produced beats. The flow is amazing, it changes from being smooth and relaxed **** Don't Kill My Vibe", "Sherane", "Swimming Pools") to being aggressive and frustrated ("Backset Freestyle", "m.A.A.d City"). Kendrick proves not only to be the greatest rapper of our generation, but also one of the best songwriter of the last 10 years.… Expand
  49. LtXDonut
    Aug 21, 2017
    9
    When this album released, I would have called it a 10/10. I wondered how much better a rap record could really be. Then TPAB came out. That's why I'm gonna give GKMC a VERY STRONG 9. I do think Kendrick 1 upped himself, usurped his own throne really. This album is fantastic and tells a gripping story in a beautiful way. It could almost be made into a movie with how well the story is told.When this album released, I would have called it a 10/10. I wondered how much better a rap record could really be. Then TPAB came out. That's why I'm gonna give GKMC a VERY STRONG 9. I do think Kendrick 1 upped himself, usurped his own throne really. This album is fantastic and tells a gripping story in a beautiful way. It could almost be made into a movie with how well the story is told. It's a narrative album that is great to listen to end to end or just hear songs by themselves. GKMC is amazing no matter how you choose to consume it.… Expand
  50. ellisfetus
    May 30, 2015
    10
    I didn't like this album for over two years after it came out. It wasn't until early 215 when I gave it a re-listen after probably 6 months that I realized it was miles ahead of any other rap album I had heard. If only "Real," which is a terrible song, hadn't been included...
  51. dj_wet_dreamz
    Aug 11, 2015
    10
    Best album of 2012 hands down. This is not for your average rap head. To enjoy this album you must have some type of intelligence (IN THERE.....GET IT.....In THERE, LOL). The album is a classic, a banger, and some more. Play it. Buy it. Enjoy it.
  52. DBrown7
    Dec 18, 2017
    10
    Simply classic. An essential listen for anyone interested in Rap/Hip-hop. A contextual album that feels almost like a movie. No matter how many times i've listened all the way through this project it is still thoroughly enjoyable. Great production and even better flow and lyrics makes this album one of the best to have been put out in this genre (in my opinion). Its crazy to think it hasSimply classic. An essential listen for anyone interested in Rap/Hip-hop. A contextual album that feels almost like a movie. No matter how many times i've listened all the way through this project it is still thoroughly enjoyable. Great production and even better flow and lyrics makes this album one of the best to have been put out in this genre (in my opinion). Its crazy to think it has already been over 5 years since its release as the album simply does not get old. A honest tale of a kid from Compton, Kendrick Lamar.… Expand
  53. 4za
    Apr 19, 2018
    9
    One of the best concept albums of all time. Amazing story throughout every track. While the album has some trap and pop influences, it still gives a sense of intellect that separates it from its competition. This is my second favourite album of all time just behind To Pimp A Butterfly. Kendrick comes through with some of his best music ever as evidenced by tracks like 'Sing About Me, I'mOne of the best concept albums of all time. Amazing story throughout every track. While the album has some trap and pop influences, it still gives a sense of intellect that separates it from its competition. This is my second favourite album of all time just behind To Pimp A Butterfly. Kendrick comes through with some of his best music ever as evidenced by tracks like 'Sing About Me, I'm Dying Of Thirst'. Without spoiling the story, this album has an incredible over-arching story that comes through with a very satisfying conclusion. Near perfect album,… Expand
  54. AttendantHeart
    May 13, 2022
    10
    quien es kendrick lamar?
    para el ciego, es la luz
    para el hambriento, es el pan
    para el enfermo, es la cura
    para el solitario, es el compañero
    para el triste, es la alegría
    para el prisionero, es la libertad
    para el pobre, es el tesoro
    para el deudor, es el perdón
  55. Eddinebl
    Feb 8, 2023
    9
    Es un album casi perfecto, me encanta su tematica, es imresionante como Kendrick llega a contar sus historias a traves de su musica, GOAT.
  56. quillber
    Nov 1, 2012
    7
    some great tracks and some really average ones. too much talk of 'sucking my d***' and fake talk of shooting guns for his lyrics to be top notch. he is very creative with his approach though. i wish i liked this more than i do.
  57. JRG
    Oct 23, 2012
    10
    Truly an incredible album. Kendrick keeps pushing the genre forward. His debut major label album has the benefits of a label without the pop nonsense and without abandoning his crew. Kendrick works with his old producers and a few new ones, and the result is a sonic masterpiece. The story in this concept album is powerful, as are each of the features here. Kendrick has actually lived up toTruly an incredible album. Kendrick keeps pushing the genre forward. His debut major label album has the benefits of a label without the pop nonsense and without abandoning his crew. Kendrick works with his old producers and a few new ones, and the result is a sonic masterpiece. The story in this concept album is powerful, as are each of the features here. Kendrick has actually lived up to the astronomical hype, and delivered an album as cohesive as it is creative. Nobody sounds like Kendrick. You can tell who his influences are, but he does not sound like a mix of them. Kendrick is just Kendrick, and he impressively blends his dexterous flows, voices and skits tell a detailed and unforgettable story of coming of age in an unforgiving environment.… Expand
  58. eoperez
    Oct 24, 2012
    10
    This is a great rap album. Artistically its a masterpiece. That's not something you can say about a rap album too often. Kendrick paints a picture of a day in his life of a young guy living in a rough city. The real story!
  59. xSaGe
    Nov 25, 2012
    10
    Simply put, the album is amazing. Kendrick delivers a story through rapping, which many rappers fail to do. Kendrick's flow and lyricism is unique. The album's story revolves around young 10th grade Kendrick in Compton from trying to get at a girl he likes to hanging out with his homies and spitting freestyles in the backseat. Every track on the album is fresh and different, you'll neverSimply put, the album is amazing. Kendrick delivers a story through rapping, which many rappers fail to do. Kendrick's flow and lyricism is unique. The album's story revolves around young 10th grade Kendrick in Compton from trying to get at a girl he likes to hanging out with his homies and spitting freestyles in the backseat. Every track on the album is fresh and different, you'll never get bored from the tracks. The beats are amazing and of course, so is the writing. The amount of features on the album was disappointing at first, but Kendrick is trying to deliver his own story. However, the features that do appear on the album are solid. Drake does a great job in Poetic Justice (coming from a person who doesn't like Drake), Jay Rock is excellent on Money Trees, MC Ei8ht does well in m.A.A.d city, and of course Mary J. Blige does an amazing job! As a fan of Black Hippy, I would have loved to see verses from Schoolboy Q and Ab-Soul as well, but there still is the Black Hippy The Recipe and Swimming Pools remixes as bonus tracks for the album. All in all, good kid, m.A.A.d city is an amazing album and will become a classic as time goes by. All rap fans should consider giving it a listen.… Expand
  60. critic1million
    Dec 20, 2012
    8
    This is a good album but not instant classic (if that even exists) and one has to wonder about the motives of some of these high scores by these so-called professional reviewers. It is like they are trying to create another great or something. The album definitely has the same flaws that most mainstream rappers have. It is not like his lyrics are inspiring to a grown man. The album also isThis is a good album but not instant classic (if that even exists) and one has to wonder about the motives of some of these high scores by these so-called professional reviewers. It is like they are trying to create another great or something. The album definitely has the same flaws that most mainstream rappers have. It is not like his lyrics are inspiring to a grown man. The album also is held together way too often by skits which almost becomes a crutch at times. Drake really has no business fitting into this album other than him simply wanting him on here. Also, the constant mentioning of his city or Compton is clearly not something that his creative juices are telling him to do. It is a strategy put in his head by Dr. Dre and other west coast pioneers.

    All that said, the album flows together well and has a standout song or two but I am not sure that this album really has the replay value as a entire body of work to make it strong enough to be a classic.    … Expand
  61. JaboyKoi
    Nov 17, 2013
    10
    The best hip-hop/rap album of 2012. Section.80 sure as hell got my curiosity, but Good Kid, M.A.A.D City had my attention. Every production of this album is solid. All the tracks are easy to fall in love with. A masterpiece.
  62. Extra_Official
    Nov 1, 2013
    10
    I am a big hip hop/rap fan, yet never really listened to kendrick lamar. I bought this album simply by going how high it's rated, and I have to say its one of the best albums I've Heard. The album represents different scenarios in his life growing up In Compton. Each song is fairly unique to the next and the album is definitely a game changer. I'll definitely be listening to kendrickI am a big hip hop/rap fan, yet never really listened to kendrick lamar. I bought this album simply by going how high it's rated, and I have to say its one of the best albums I've Heard. The album represents different scenarios in his life growing up In Compton. Each song is fairly unique to the next and the album is definitely a game changer. I'll definitely be listening to kendrick lamar a whole lot more and purchase the next album kendrick has to offer out the brilliance of this one. GKMC 10/10… Expand
  63. Princethadon
    Mar 3, 2014
    10
    This is the best album I have ever heard. Kendrick Lamar deserves the title King Kendrick Lamar. The beats are weird but so amazing. The best two songs from the album are: Backseat Freestyle and m.A.A.d City. The track I could have done without is: Real. So I give this album a 10 out of 10. Thanks for reading.
  64. PedroOliveira
    Jun 30, 2014
    10
    In this album I have everything I could ask for: Excellent and diverse production, top lyricism, a story you can relate to even if it's not in the same context or topic you feel related. Also you have life-changing tracks along with dark subjects, love songs, struggle anthems, motivation, positive thinking in **** up situations, it may even be a therapy session if you feel the need of one.In this album I have everything I could ask for: Excellent and diverse production, top lyricism, a story you can relate to even if it's not in the same context or topic you feel related. Also you have life-changing tracks along with dark subjects, love songs, struggle anthems, motivation, positive thinking in **** up situations, it may even be a therapy session if you feel the need of one. You can describe this album with the word Visionary, because Kendrick's vision becomes an universal feeling, a need, a thought, once you listen to it, questions come and go, answers start to pop out even, when you did not know the question. I thank Kendrick, and I know it looks like I'm dickriding, but i gotta do it, because there's too much gratitude, enjoyment, suffering and over all those things, a change in myself, that I got with this project. I don't know if anyone feels the same, but that's how I feel about this album. Just my opinion.… Expand
  65. klasti
    Apr 19, 2015
    10
    amazing album, ahead of its time. Probably the second best album in history next to TPAB. kendrick lamar truly is one of the best artists of this decade.
  66. 1jaytrain
    Mar 5, 2016
    10
    wtf yall dumb asf this album was the first rap album i heard when i was 11 years old this album literally impacted me this album is more than perfection its heavenly please do not shun my role model "when the lights shut off and its his turn to settle down' will yall sing about him?
  67. omararcher
    Oct 23, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. hey igbe, shut yo dumb ass up, this album is easily the best of last decade… Expand
  68. Croner
    Sep 10, 2019
    10
    Um filme em um álbum, uma história incrível contada de uma forma inesquecível. Um clássico para o rap e para o "storytelling".
  69. Dankill
    Jan 23, 2020
    10
    This album gets a play through at least once a week. Kendrick is off on his own with the amount of storytelling and deeper meanings in his music. He’s a true genius.
  70. MegaAscension
    Apr 2, 2020
    9
    This is the album that got me into rap music. Sure, I liked some rap songs before, but this was the rap album that changed my thoughts on rap. There's a reason this guy became the first rap artist to win a Pulitzer. I read the lyrics to Swimming Pools (Drank) to my mother who dislikes rap, and she actually liked it. Loved the lyrics. It's the strong point on this album. The only thing thatThis is the album that got me into rap music. Sure, I liked some rap songs before, but this was the rap album that changed my thoughts on rap. There's a reason this guy became the first rap artist to win a Pulitzer. I read the lyrics to Swimming Pools (Drank) to my mother who dislikes rap, and she actually liked it. Loved the lyrics. It's the strong point on this album. The only thing that holds it back from a 10 is that it is a bit too long (could have been trimmed down 5-10 minutes). Now I can tell those middle schoolers back in 2012-2013 that Kendrick is great, instead of saying that I don't listen to rap. I'm glad that this is becoming a classic.… Expand
  71. Alanozz
    May 15, 2022
    10
    This album is a f’ing classic I don’t give a damn what anybody says. Definitely a top 10 HipHop album.
  72. sadboiinfinite
    Jun 14, 2022
    7
    This album is held at very high regard with most Kendrick fans, and while I agree that the record is a masterfully written narrative, the multiple attempts at a commercial radio song on this album makes this not as replay-able as "DAMN." or even "To Pimp a Butterfly". "Poetic Justice" with Drake is beyond boring. From its spacey, minimal beat, to the underwhelming delivery from Kendrick,This album is held at very high regard with most Kendrick fans, and while I agree that the record is a masterfully written narrative, the multiple attempts at a commercial radio song on this album makes this not as replay-able as "DAMN." or even "To Pimp a Butterfly". "Poetic Justice" with Drake is beyond boring. From its spacey, minimal beat, to the underwhelming delivery from Kendrick, and the Drake verse that fails to reach the same lyrical quality as Kendrick, it's a skip every time. "Real" has great verses and a nice, relaxed rhythm, but the vocal tone on the chorus is unbearable. And, while I do enjoy "Swimming Pools" and **** Don't Kill My Vibe" from lyrical and conceptual standpoints, the instrumentals haven't entirely aged well.

    That obviously doesn't mean I dislike the rest of the record. The intro sets the stage perfectly; "The Art of Peer Pressure" paints the title perfectly; m.A.A.d city is one Kendrick's best songs period; This album is still fantastic. There are soaring highs, but also too many lows for me to say it is close to Kendrick's best body of work.    … Expand
  73. houseofhegira
    Oct 25, 2012
    10
    Objectively I cannot give this a 10, as it needs to pass the test of time to be truly deemed a "classic". I will however do it this time, simply because we've waited for so long for a record like this in hip-hop. After years of enduring horrific trends and artists, finally we receive a concept album with great productions, stellar guest verses, an imaginative and brightly lit lyrical worldObjectively I cannot give this a 10, as it needs to pass the test of time to be truly deemed a "classic". I will however do it this time, simply because we've waited for so long for a record like this in hip-hop. After years of enduring horrific trends and artists, finally we receive a concept album with great productions, stellar guest verses, an imaginative and brightly lit lyrical world of violence, religion, shame, remorse, desire and struggle. Good Kid, Maad City is not only the best debut album in the last 5 years (at least), it's not only the most polished release in the genre this year, but it just might be the spark that hip-hop needs to reinvent itself and bring the glory days back. From everyone that truly loves this music, a sincere 'Thank You' should go out to Kendrick and the crew around this album for giving us such a jewel.… Expand
  74. hiphophideout
    Oct 22, 2012
    10
    I
  75. Monduman
    Nov 25, 2012
    8
    first listening to this album you may not 'get the hype' or understand it all, but ounce you go back and listen to his other albums, go and look up the history, go look up concept of the album and go look up the lyrics and listen to it again then you will not only understand the album but start loving it. This isn't just an average rap album talking about different things and seperatefirst listening to this album you may not 'get the hype' or understand it all, but ounce you go back and listen to his other albums, go and look up the history, go look up concept of the album and go look up the lyrics and listen to it again then you will not only understand the album but start loving it. This isn't just an average rap album talking about different things and seperate tracks with dumb lyrics infact this album is a masterpiece. The concept of the album is a day in the life of a teenage Kendrick Lamar as an upcoming rapper before he ever got signed and the way it is done really makes you feel like your actually there. Each track and their lyrics makes sense/fits on the album and links up with not only the others on the album but other tracks on his previous albums. It is a lyrical journey like no other. I also suggest picking up his previous albums/mixtapes.… Expand
  76. HeadRadio
    Dec 18, 2012
    6
    Section 80 is better............
  77. Soldier
    Oct 15, 2013
    10
    All I can say is: 5-10 years from now, people will look back at this album and put it right next to the all-time hip-hop classics, right there next to "Raising Hell", "The Chronic", "Straight Outta Compton", "Illmatic"... By all means, Kendrick has proven to be one of the (if not the only) greatest lyricists of his generation.

    The whole storyline and how it's constructed in the songs    All I can say is: 5-10 years from now, people will look back at this album and put it right next to the all-time hip-hop classics, right there next to "Raising Hell", "The Chronic", "Straight Outta Compton", "Illmatic"... By all means, Kendrick has proven to be one of the (if not the only) greatest lyricists of his generation.

    The whole storyline and how it's constructed in the songs and the skits, the climax between the end of "Swimming Pools" and "Sing About Me Dying of Thirst", like it's the master-scene of this short movie...

    I'm definitely adding that to the list of "All Time Greatest Hip-Hop albums"    … Expand
  78. igbe
    Oct 14, 2013
    0
    this album is the most overrated album of all time, yes the production was good but i think people are the whole story board of the album overshadow the music itself. personally i prefer section 80. gkmc heavily influence by Andre 3000
  79. kanasailah
    Mar 31, 2014
    10
    All hail the new king of Hip-hop! At last, a true saviour of Hip-hop has finally arrive. Of course, I'm not saying that hip hop is dead before Kendrick Lamar burst into the scene. There was 2010's My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, but Kanye's last album was like an arthouse project with a huge-ass budget instead of a true blue hip hop album. Not since Illmatic, had an album produce soAll hail the new king of Hip-hop! At last, a true saviour of Hip-hop has finally arrive. Of course, I'm not saying that hip hop is dead before Kendrick Lamar burst into the scene. There was 2010's My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, but Kanye's last album was like an arthouse project with a huge-ass budget instead of a true blue hip hop album. Not since Illmatic, had an album produce so much hype over being an instant hip hop classic. However, Good Kid, M.A.A.D City is not an instant hip hop classic. It is THE INSTANT **** CLASSIC. The whole album plays out like an autobiography of Kendrick's life as a kid growing in the mad city known as Compton. From meeting with a girl in a club to meeting with rival gangs to a death of a peer, it plays out like a Scorsese film, grittiness and all. Now, here comes the point where I will wax lyrical about Kendrick the new King and saviour of hip hop. There's his wordplay, the flows every time he's on the mic, the storytelling, it all sums up perfectly in this album the reason why people rank him on par with Tupac, Eminem, Rakim and Nas. In fact, screw that. Non-hip hop listeners would probably fall for this album too with its top notch production quality. Overall, this is hands down the best album of 2012 bar none. All hail King Kendrick!… Expand
  80. Bretro96
    Dec 17, 2014
    10
    This is a modern rap & hip-hop classic album. It has cemented Kendrick Lamar as one of the best and if not the best hip hop artist today. This album is most likely the best album of the decade and it has helped revive mainstream west coast hip hop without sacrificing lyrics. It has great production and it is socially conscious about what was going on in his hometown of Compton, California.This is a modern rap & hip-hop classic album. It has cemented Kendrick Lamar as one of the best and if not the best hip hop artist today. This album is most likely the best album of the decade and it has helped revive mainstream west coast hip hop without sacrificing lyrics. It has great production and it is socially conscious about what was going on in his hometown of Compton, California. He is like the west coast version of Nas with left side beats. It is very unlikely that any rapper soon well be able to make a better album than this one and specially a major label debut like this one.… Expand
  81. VicaMOOR
    Mar 20, 2015
    9
    The ONLY reason I DIDN'T give this a 10 is because I JUST listened to TPAB and THAT album really took away from this album... but that's a good thing, for Kendrick. It proves, to me, that he grew into something beyond special. His storytelling is out of this world. This is the album I thought would be his peak... but I was clearly wrong!
  82. Higo
    Feb 28, 2017
    10
    This is a album you need to listen to, from start to end, with rap genius open listening and reading the lyrics. Never skip through the songs, just enjoy it. The songs tell a story from start to end which is legendary and has shaken me to my core. This is what music should be, something that makes you think differently, that shows the emotion and life of the artist, not just meaninglessThis is a album you need to listen to, from start to end, with rap genius open listening and reading the lyrics. Never skip through the songs, just enjoy it. The songs tell a story from start to end which is legendary and has shaken me to my core. This is what music should be, something that makes you think differently, that shows the emotion and life of the artist, not just meaningless beats and lyrics. Incredible album. Perfect 10/10.… Expand
  83. eboli
    Apr 22, 2017
    10
    A classic hip-hop record in every respect. The album is able to reach a large audience while addressing important social issues of the time and continuing to be musically innovative.
  84. MrSirGuy
    Jun 11, 2019
    10
    This album is a work of art. Listen from start to finish when you have time to just take your mind off everything else. Easily one of the best and most cohesive hip-hop albums of our lifetime
  85. hiphopnotist
    Jan 6, 2018
    10
    Good Kid, M.A.A.D. City is what everyone was hoping for. An album that gave back to true hip hop heads in a commercial landscape. The album tells a tale of a good kid in a m.a.a.d city and delivers track after track of fire. Kendrick gets you caught up in lyrics and delivers what will go down as one of the best albums of this era.
  86. I_Pineiro
    Feb 8, 2018
    10
    It is a wonderful and very creative album. The story is great, musically it's very good and lyrically brilliant.
  87. Rbz24
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    It automatically takes you to the life of "innocent kendrick you've seen in the street with a basketball and some now n laters to eat" in the belly of the beast.
  88. Seamless
    May 26, 2021
    10
    This album is absolutely phenomenal! Everything about it is great, from the sequenced track list, the incredible storytelling and lyricism as well as the impeccable production. The only song that I wasn’t crazy about was Real, though all the other tracks easily make up for it. Words cannot describe how much I love this album.
  89. mikegeary
    May 13, 2022
    10
    Simply no bad tracks and a storybook from start to finish. It’s a different sound than Section 80 but Kendrick goes on to include new stories and takes listeners through a journey with a little bit of jazz and funk to emotionally engage the listener. Best rap album of the year.
  90. GeorgeEgan
    Jun 17, 2022
    10
    top 3 hip hop/rap albums of all time along with to pimp a butterfly and illmatic, truly inspiring
  91. AverageMusic
    Aug 26, 2022
    8
    I did kind of find this album kind of boring at some times. But Kendricks storytelling and naration was pretty good. I think Kendricks flow was good. The production was good. I think the album overall souunded great.
  92. egg_addict
    May 18, 2023
    9
    amazing storytelling on this album. the singles work on their own, and add amazingly to the narrative of this project. really an amazing example of how to tell a story through music.
  93. KarimTRIO
    Oct 26, 2012
    10
    By contemporary standards, this album was almost beyond reproach. Just a note - if you thought that (with regard to content) "Swimming Pools" was like "every other rap song," you clearly missed the point of the record. In fact, if somebody suggested that it diametrically opposed "every other rap song" about drinking, it'd be a more valid (yet still flawed) statement. If you don't see howBy contemporary standards, this album was almost beyond reproach. Just a note - if you thought that (with regard to content) "Swimming Pools" was like "every other rap song," you clearly missed the point of the record. In fact, if somebody suggested that it diametrically opposed "every other rap song" about drinking, it'd be a more valid (yet still flawed) statement. If you don't see how the song coheres to the larger narrative of the album, you clearly didn't get it conceptually.… Expand
  94. K3ViNPwNz-
    Oct 22, 2012
    10
    Absolutely an instant classic. Every song has incredible production. Kendrick's lyrics are some of the best ever heard on a hip hop album, and it is amazing how his album follows a story line, often resulting in songs that have unique beat changes or skits in them. Overall this really is a 10/10 album, an instant classic, and the official crowning of a new king of hip hop. King Kendrick Lamar.
  95. winknudge
    Oct 25, 2012
    10
    Dear Zeus, I don't normally write reviews, but for you I'll make an exception. You completely missed the point. I hope one day you wake up and understand the concept of a story. Till then, enjoy your ignorance. It's a blessing. To everybody else, every beat, lyric, and guest appearance is absolutely necessary to complete the "film". This is in every respect a classic hip hop album. I'm notDear Zeus, I don't normally write reviews, but for you I'll make an exception. You completely missed the point. I hope one day you wake up and understand the concept of a story. Till then, enjoy your ignorance. It's a blessing. To everybody else, every beat, lyric, and guest appearance is absolutely necessary to complete the "film". This is in every respect a classic hip hop album. I'm not a hip hop guy, but everyone should listen to this album. You won't regret it. But make sure you don't forget that every once in a while, a real artist makes a piece that needs to appreciated as a whole. Some of the songs stand out as odd if not appreciated as part of quite a complex plot.
    Listen with open ears...    … Expand
  96. Michael2415
    Oct 24, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. With his Lyrical themes and cohesive rapping abilities that is what makes "Good Kid, M.A.A.D City" one of those rare hip-hop albums that is good enough to be praised as a whole as a Classic.… Expand
  97. Traced
    Oct 26, 2012
    10
    There is absolutely nothing that I could complain about with this album from the creativity, versatility, lyrics to the sonic qualities, it is absolute excellence. Some of the most clear and cohesive storytelling themed albums I've heard in such a long time, did not disappoint at all. I'm sure in a few years from now this will be named a classic amongst the fans who know what a classicThere is absolutely nothing that I could complain about with this album from the creativity, versatility, lyrics to the sonic qualities, it is absolute excellence. Some of the most clear and cohesive storytelling themed albums I've heard in such a long time, did not disappoint at all. I'm sure in a few years from now this will be named a classic amongst the fans who know what a classic album entails.… Expand
  98. HipHopTastic
    Nov 10, 2012
    10
    Every generation in Rap has that one album that comes along and revolutionizes the genre all over again, the 80's had NWA's 'Straight Outta Compton', the 90's had Nas's 'Illmatic' (which arguably influenced classic albums such as Biggie Smalls 'Ready To Die' and Jay-Z's 'Reasonable Doubt' amongst many others) Good Kid M.A.A.D City is another album that will no doubt in time be regarded asEvery generation in Rap has that one album that comes along and revolutionizes the genre all over again, the 80's had NWA's 'Straight Outta Compton', the 90's had Nas's 'Illmatic' (which arguably influenced classic albums such as Biggie Smalls 'Ready To Die' and Jay-Z's 'Reasonable Doubt' amongst many others) Good Kid M.A.A.D City is another album that will no doubt in time be regarded as a 'game changer' as no album in the past 12 years (and there have been some great ones) has sounded or come close to how great this album as a whole is, from the excellent 'short film' premise, production and features to the Lyrical content, this album goes against every conventional rap album that has been released in this era, its as if it does not belong in this era at all. This album is a MUST listen to, and will hopefully inspire more artists in Rap/Hip-Hop to raise the bar as a whole; Kendrick Lamar has no doubt crafted a Classic for the 'new age'.… Expand
  99. Sakor1998
    Nov 4, 2012
    10
    This is a very important album. Not many artists have the ability to blend commercial appeal and artistic vision - early Eminem, most 90's rappers, Kanye West, Jay-Z and Nas (to a degree). Otherwise, most great hip-hop stays underground and under-appreciated. Kendrick is one of the few new rappers who has managed to break this barrier, with "Good Kid, M.A.A.D City" - a phenomenal albumThis is a very important album. Not many artists have the ability to blend commercial appeal and artistic vision - early Eminem, most 90's rappers, Kanye West, Jay-Z and Nas (to a degree). Otherwise, most great hip-hop stays underground and under-appreciated. Kendrick is one of the few new rappers who has managed to break this barrier, with "Good Kid, M.A.A.D City" - a phenomenal album that sounds amazingly cohesive and tells a story that puts most concept albums to shame. Not only does Kendrick manage to make his music sound great, he also addresses numerous moral issues and gives some much-needed insight into the black communities inside the USA, showing us the corruption of the system that surrounds these young folk and exposing their mentality. His storytelling, rich with imagery, manages to create a link between the two parallels of society that too often stay separated. The album contains great humor, raw emotion, clever wordplay, rich production and, most importantly, soul. I urge everyone to go out and support Kendrick Lamar, along with the rest of Black Hippy (his hip-hop group). 10/10… Expand
  100. Jribs
    Aug 16, 2017
    10
    Best Kendrick album for people who have pop listening tendencies, and who tend to avoid nihilistic art. This is Kendrick's last truly hopeful album. In Alright, on To Pimp a Butterfly, he sarcastically says that everything's going to be alright, and later, he was 'Damn.' sure that things will not be won't be alright. In Good Kid Maad City, Kendrick is still innocent, and does not allowBest Kendrick album for people who have pop listening tendencies, and who tend to avoid nihilistic art. This is Kendrick's last truly hopeful album. In Alright, on To Pimp a Butterfly, he sarcastically says that everything's going to be alright, and later, he was 'Damn.' sure that things will not be won't be alright. In Good Kid Maad City, Kendrick is still innocent, and does not allow 'the system' to bring him down. Kendrick was able to handle his demons, and he gives advice how. The quality that his inspirational messages are rapped with is top notch. Kendrick Lamar is one of the greatest rappers who ever lived, and he spits fire here. And some of it is pretty hilarious. Gotta love that f$%# you sarcasm. God-tier rhymes.

    Oh, and the beats are dank. Very dank.    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Best Album of 2012
3
#3 Most Discussed Album of 2012
2
#2 Most Shared Album of 2012

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
91

Universal acclaim - based on 36 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 35 out of 36
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 36
  3. Negative: 0 out of 36
  1. Austin Chronicle
    Jan 24, 2013
    89
    The quotidian problems and longings of the title track making up the real heart of the album, a rough and tumble struggle to the top.
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  2. The Quietus
    Jan 10, 2013
    90
    In another rapper's hands the concepts might have been overcooked or the messages too self-righteous, but Kendrick manages to achieve scale while remaining firmly grounded on two feet.
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  3. cokemachineglow
    Dec 21, 2012
    90
    This is the best rap album of 2012--not just because of champion verses and immaculate drops, but because they recognize that the most brilliant foreground only shines against a well-defined backdrop.
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