To Pimp A Butterfly
by Kendrick Lamar
User Score
9.0

Universal acclaim- based on 4386 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3,962 out of 4386
  2. Mixed: 91 out of 4386
  3. Negative: 333 out of 4386
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  1. Ignatioss
    May 5, 2021
    10
    An amazing album all around with amazing production, lyrics and melody. One of the best albums of the 2010’s
  2. proreview0
    Apr 19, 2021
    10
    he album's immediate influence was felt as "a pantheon for racial empowerment", according to Butler, who also argued that the record helped create a respected space for conscious hip hop and "will be revered not just at the top of some list at the end of the year, but in the subconscious of music fans for decades to come".[96] Writing for Highsnobiety, Robert Blair said, "[To Pimp ahe album's immediate influence was felt as "a pantheon for racial empowerment", according to Butler, who also argued that the record helped create a respected space for conscious hip hop and "will be revered not just at the top of some list at the end of the year, but in the subconscious of music fans for decades to come".[96] Writing for Highsnobiety, Robert Blair said, "[To Pimp a Butterfly] is the crystallized moment in time where Kendrick became a generation's most potent artistic voice."[4] Uproxx journalist Aaron Williams said the album "proved that left-field, experimental rap can function in both the critical and commercial realms".[117] Jazz saxophonist Kamasi Washington said that the album "changed music, and we're still seeing the effects of it [...] [the album] meant that intellectually stimulating music doesn't have to be underground. It just didn't change the music. It changed the audience."[4] To Pimp a Butterfly was an influence on David Bowie's 2016 album Blackstar. As its producer Tony Visconti recalled, he and Bowie were "listening to a lot of Kendrick Lamar [...] we loved the fact Kendrick was so open-minded and he didn't do a straight-up hip-hop record. He threw everything on there, and that's exactly what we wanted to do."[118] Prince highlighted that he was a fan of To Pimp a Butterfly and Lamar in an interview, saying, "[Lamar] just has something to say [...] [To Pimp a Butterfly is] pure. And with Thundercat on the album? Come on. You're not taking "Alright" off my playlist!… Expand
  3. TannerThanYou25
    Apr 18, 2021
    10
    You know EXACTLY why this is a 10. The production, lyricism, political influence, and the rap style of Kendrick Lamar are all masterpiece level. I can’t name one thing wrong with this album, and it shouldn’t be this low of a score on Metacritic. Absolutely phenomenal album.
  4. Wowisawow
    Apr 16, 2021
    10
    Perfect Album. One of my only 10/10's. There's not a single song on this album that I don't love to death. So much meaning to everything.
  5. hdcooper
    Apr 8, 2021
    9
    Possibly the greatest rap/hip-hop album of all time, if not one of the greatest albums ever, point blank period. Also one of my favorite of all time. Not only has Kendrick's entire career, but all of hip-hop, has all led to this moment.

    9.7/10
  6. Hendo250
    Mar 29, 2021
    10
    this album is a 10 this album is a 10 this album is a 10 this album is a 10
  7. ThatOneGuy__13
    Mar 25, 2021
    10
    Wow, just wow. brilliant concept, brilliant execution. every time I listen to the album I find another incredible detail. It is truly a brilliant work of art. This has to be one of the greatest albums of all time.
  8. chickensusu
    Feb 24, 2021
    10
    kendrick the goat of the new generation 10/10
    kendrick the goat of the new generation 10/10
    kendrick the goat of the new generation 10/10
  9. JDMXEN
    Feb 23, 2021
    10
    This is the greatest album i have ever listened to. A great sounding album back to front sonically, with a extremely powerful message which has even changed the way I view things and people. Kendrick has solidified himself as one the greatest rappers of the 21st century with this album alone.

    I strongly urge people to give this album a listen and fully give it a chance even if you are not    This is the greatest album i have ever listened to. A great sounding album back to front sonically, with a extremely powerful message which has even changed the way I view things and people. Kendrick has solidified himself as one the greatest rappers of the 21st century with this album alone.

    I strongly urge people to give this album a listen and fully give it a chance even if you are not a kendrick fan or a rap fan.    … Expand
  10. comradebrett
    Feb 3, 2021
    10
    Kendrick Lamar follows good kid, m.A.A.d city with another incredible album. I love the jazzy beats and the insightful and poetic lyrics throughout the entirety of the album. My favorite tracks are The Blacker the Berry, Alright, King Kunta, Institutionalized, and u.
  11. sambartlett2004
    Jan 17, 2021
    10
    This album is high energy and well paced. It smoothly transitions through so many sounds and vibes and is truly a hip hop masterpiece. This album is decade defining and displays Kendrick at his best. A must listen.
  12. Haytammachizaml
    Jan 15, 2021
    10
    A3dama album f tarikh t5yl m3aya chi album fih kolchi peak dyal l music b sara7a
  13. joshtazzy
    Jan 8, 2021
    10
    Best album ever. Perfect music. Kendrick covers big topics in such a personal way that makes the listener feel everything he is saying. Amazing
  14. Wrong_Opinions
    Dec 18, 2020
    10
    A Masterpiece and an Instant Classic that has aged extremely since its release. You’ve probably heard 1000 reasons why this album is absolutely fantastic already so there’s no point in repeating what everyone’s already said about this masterpiece so... The review’s over. 10/10.
  15. averagemusicfan
    Dec 15, 2020
    10
    Top 2 or 3 albums in general for the 2010s. Great listening experience, would recommend listening to it on vinyl.
  16. Charliewigg
    Dec 12, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Incredibly captivating and compelling storytelling on each track and the collective album, impeccable production and literature on each track and phenomenal handling of its themes of societal racism, misuse of power and self-love/self-hatred. There is a uniquely interesting concept on each track, from him screaming at himself through the third person on u to him describing himself as a slave in love on the uplifting complexion. The creativity is also super heavy in the film concepts, such as the antagonists of Lucy and Uncle Sam, created through the personification of sin and capitalist America. My pick for the greatest album of all time and an absolute must listen for anybody reading this review… Expand
  17. Mayel
    Dec 10, 2020
    10
    Probably the best Rap album released this past decade. Tackling subject matter such as race issues all of that with an immaculate production that sounds different than a lot of other contemporary rap albums. This a timeless body of work!
  18. Maximus_Moyles
    Dec 2, 2020
    10
    To pimp A Butterfly is an absolute masterpiece of construction and art. Tells an terrific story of Kendrick Lamar trying to pimp his fame and success to help the kids of Compton get through their struggle. Every song has great hooks mind blowing verses and includes soothing instruments of jazz and other funk elements. Their is not one bad song on this album and its a must listen no matterTo pimp A Butterfly is an absolute masterpiece of construction and art. Tells an terrific story of Kendrick Lamar trying to pimp his fame and success to help the kids of Compton get through their struggle. Every song has great hooks mind blowing verses and includes soothing instruments of jazz and other funk elements. Their is not one bad song on this album and its a must listen no matter what. 10/10… Expand
  19. magic_jam13
    Nov 25, 2020
    10
    This is my most favorite album ever so this is biased. Anyways the sounds on this album are amazing just makes you want to get up and start freestyling. You can tell these tracks come straight from the heart. I think everybody needs to listen to this at least once in their life. All the tracks are amazing so im not doing a standout tracks list cuz their all outstanding. Best song has to beThis is my most favorite album ever so this is biased. Anyways the sounds on this album are amazing just makes you want to get up and start freestyling. You can tell these tracks come straight from the heart. I think everybody needs to listen to this at least once in their life. All the tracks are amazing so im not doing a standout tracks list cuz their all outstanding. Best song has to be "alright" or the "blacker the berry"… Expand
  20. Zebomk
    Nov 24, 2020
    10
    Very impressed by this album. I thought it was a near impossible task to follow up good kid maad city, but I think Kendrick did just that. He fuses a lot of sounds throughout the album flawlessly. He incorporates Jazz in tracks like “ For Free”, “ U”, “ How Much A Dollar Cost”. He fuses funk in tracks like “ Wesleys Theory”, King Kunta” and “ These Walls”. Wesleys Theory sounds like some GVery impressed by this album. I thought it was a near impossible task to follow up good kid maad city, but I think Kendrick did just that. He fuses a lot of sounds throughout the album flawlessly. He incorporates Jazz in tracks like “ For Free”, “ U”, “ How Much A Dollar Cost”. He fuses funk in tracks like “ Wesleys Theory”, King Kunta” and “ These Walls”. Wesleys Theory sounds like some G Funk **** back in the 90s. His lyrical approach is very poetic and hard hitting on this album. From tearing himself apart on “ U” to the uplifting more soulful “ I “. For me this is the album that makes me put Kendrick up there with some of the greats.

    Favorite tracks: Wesleys Theory, King Kunta, These Walls, U, Momma, How Much A Dollar Cost, Mortal Man    … Expand
  21. vstndvd
    Nov 22, 2020
    10
    This is the best and most comprehensive album in hip-hop history! Kendrick reimagined the understanding of African American culture and industry in general! Diamond.
  22. Lamerson19
    Nov 10, 2020
    10
    God damn. God damn. This full album features jazz instrumentals representing the hundreds of years and different generations of black music. This album covers Kendrick's story of growing up in a poor, black neighborhood, the love and pride he has for his race, and the hatred and racism surrounding his people. This album goes over hatred and blame of a loved one, betrayal, social injustice,God damn. God damn. This full album features jazz instrumentals representing the hundreds of years and different generations of black music. This album covers Kendrick's story of growing up in a poor, black neighborhood, the love and pride he has for his race, and the hatred and racism surrounding his people. This album goes over hatred and blame of a loved one, betrayal, social injustice, alternate personalities, and so much more. This album is jam packed with wisdom and lyrical gold that if you zone out for 15 seconds, you will miss a powerful message and get lost. Each track on this record is a scene from a masterful film, it is an experience, this album will put you in a trance of enlightenment. The album features a poem being recited by Kendrick at the beginning or end of most tracks, this poem is a letter to the late rapper Tupac about him still fighting for equality and carrying his legacy 2 decades later. He is tired of the lack of change in society. Kendrick is my personal GOAT after releasing this album. You MUST listen. 10/10.… Expand
  23. AyoRxza
    Oct 14, 2020
    10
    This album was amazong. not a single flaw. Genuinely one of the greatest albums to come out in this previous decade
  24. zachym11
    Oct 13, 2020
    10
    One of the best of all time, great narrative and takes inspiration from so many genre's. 10/10
  25. JulianTarantino
    Sep 25, 2020
    10
    An instant classic, even in 2020, 5 years after its release. Kendrick Lamar paints a vivid image of a race oppressed in America, speaks out on police violence and urges blacks to be proud of their color and heritage. Musically, To Pimp A Butterfly incorporates an ambitious jazz-rap style that blends excellently with his flow and choruses. A perfect album if there ever was one.
  26. Scooter6
    Sep 24, 2020
    10
    I really believe this is one of the best Hip Hop record that has released. The instruments are beautiful, immense word play are shown, and wonderful story telling. This is a album to listen, by yourself, closely analyzing, and focus on, with no distractions. This record proves, that Kendrick Lamar will be cemented as a top artist in the Hip Hop scene.
  27. matteoz
    Aug 29, 2020
    10
    This stunning and unique album made and continues to make rap music history. "Alright" is probably one of the best, if not the best, rap song ever written. In this work of art, Kendrick does not only create an original and innovative production but also shows a very deep meaning behind every lyric.
    Best tracks: "Alright"/ "How Much A Dollar Cost" / "Mortal Man"
  28. KanyeKanye
    Aug 20, 2020
    10
    Even anthony fantano gave it a 10!
    How can some people not like this album?
  29. Kmi
    Aug 19, 2020
    10
    This album is something else. Track after track, Kendrick Lamar surprises you with more fantastic music. On most of the album, the production is very jazz-inspired. While it would seem that hip-hop and jazz do not go together, Kendrick Lamar makes the two styles fuse beautifully. The lyrics are attentive and analytical of the situations that certain members of society are placed in,This album is something else. Track after track, Kendrick Lamar surprises you with more fantastic music. On most of the album, the production is very jazz-inspired. While it would seem that hip-hop and jazz do not go together, Kendrick Lamar makes the two styles fuse beautifully. The lyrics are attentive and analytical of the situations that certain members of society are placed in, finding Kendrick giving his thoughts on them. Everything about this album blows Kendrick Lamar's two previous projects out of the water. After good kid, m.A.A.d city released, everyone asked themselves, "What could he make that would be better?" This. This is it.… Expand
  30. Phiwe
    Aug 6, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. One of the most influencial albums of the 2010s 'Simply the best' that's what I call it with it's provocative lyrics and empowering songs like 'Alright' it will go down as one of the essential and highly praised rap albums in the history of music and it's artwork that grabs the attention of the audience you can definately assume the album might change your mindset and take you to another world… Expand
  31. Momoki_02
    Jul 26, 2020
    9
    Really good album
  32. Neilluj
    Jul 23, 2020
    10
    Kendrick Lamar revient avec l’album To Pimp a Butterfly, 3e album studio depuis son arrivé son dans la plus haute sphère du hip-hop. Avec Section 80, K.Dot s’affirmait alors que G.O.O.D kid M.A.D city s’est établie comme un véritable joyau. To Pimp a Butterfly est complètement ailleurs, repoussant merveilleusement les standards établis.
    Il faut tout d’abord souligner que Kendrick Lamar    Kendrick Lamar revient avec l’album To Pimp a Butterfly, 3e album studio depuis son arrivé son dans la plus haute sphère du hip-hop. Avec Section 80, K.Dot s’affirmait alors que G.O.O.D kid M.A.D city s’est établie comme un véritable joyau. To Pimp a Butterfly est complètement ailleurs, repoussant merveilleusement les standards établis.
    Il faut tout d’abord souligner que Kendrick Lamar est un intellectuel. Un jeune issu du Ghetto de Compton qui a su devenir l’observateur et le critique d’une parcelle de la société en crise. Il, à travers ses trois albums, raconte l’histoire de son évolution dans ce milieu malsain caractérisé par un taux de criminalité assez élevé. L’originalité dans la continuité de ses productions est que K.Dot était, et reste, au-dessus de la mêlé ce qui lui permet de critiquer de façon lucide cette réalité animée par le narcissisme de ces «criminels» qui font de la musique sur nombre de chaines qu’ils possèdent.
    To Pimp a Butterfly est un album culturel. Bien qu’inspiré par la culture noire des États-Unis, Kendrick Lamar fait état, à l’aide d’envolée lyrique épique, des grands enjeux sociaux en plus de rendre hommage à plusieurs figurent importantes des 70 dernières années. Le titre de l’album, par exemple, est une référence au chef-d’œuvre littéraire To Kill a Mocking Bird de Harvey Lee. Les revendications sur la piste the Blacker The Berry rappelle les tensions raciales à Furgeson alors que How much a dollar cost est une charge à fond de train sur les inégalités économiques et sociales qui façonne le 21e siècle. L’interlude For Free dénonce la facilité avec laquelle des artistes comme Nicki Minaj tirent profit des stéréotypes qui façonnent la musique du genre hip-hop en plus de créer une dualité complètement lucide entre les vestiges culturels et les symptômes d’une grande dépression personnelle et sociale. Un album fixé dans son temps, songé et intrusif.
    Cet album n’aurait pas eu l’effet escompté si ce n’était que ces revendications. La production (assurée par Boi-1da, Dave Free, Flying Lotus, KOZ, Knxwledge, Larrance Dopson, LoveDragon, Pharrell Williams, Rahki, Ronald 'Flippa' Colson, Sounwave, Tae Beast, Taz Arnold, Terrace Martin, Thundercat, Tommy Black, Willie B, Whoarei et Dr. Dre) est un véritable tour de force. Lamar mêle, et maitrise, les contradictions musicales. Sur la première pièce Wesley's Theory, Lamar partage la pièce avec la légende du Soul/Funk Goerge Clinton alors que le reste de l’album est peuplé de Jazz et de section a capella. To Pimp a Butterfly est produit avec classe et délicatesse pour ne pas transformer l’ambition des trois années de préparation en pure prétention. Bien que Lamar ait fait appel à tous ces producteurs, il est resté, selon Flying Lotus, derrière chaque décision prise sur l’album. Une œuvre qui impressionne par l’addition des détails, mais aussi par le caractère accessible de son ensemble.
    En fait, Kendrick Lamar unit son dernier opus autour des meilleurs éléments du hip-hop des dernières années. La musicalité d’Angelo, la hargne et la rage de Dre lors de sa période N.W.A, la sensibilité et le charisme de Nas en plus de s’imposer avec un flo qui, il faut l’accorder, est un des plus solides de la décennie. De quoi soutenir la poésie urbaine avec laquelle il attaque les 80 minutes de l’album. To Pimp a Butterfly est un classique, un album phare qui ne fera que s’embellir au fil des années. 10/10    … Expand
  33. andyn823
    Jul 21, 2020
    7
    I really want to give this album a higher score. But I guess that this album is not really for me. This album is too much violence and explicit contents, which turn me down. And I don't like some of his bland beats, repetitive lyrics or aggressive rap lyrics. But anyway, I do really love the message behind this album. I love how Kendrick talks about history, racism issues, political,I really want to give this album a higher score. But I guess that this album is not really for me. This album is too much violence and explicit contents, which turn me down. And I don't like some of his bland beats, repetitive lyrics or aggressive rap lyrics. But anyway, I do really love the message behind this album. I love how Kendrick talks about history, racism issues, political, society.... I think this is a good album for the Black Lives Matter movement. I give this album 7/10.… Expand
  34. seancoz
    Jul 20, 2020
    10
    To Pimp a Butterfly is one of the best albums I have ever listened to and my all time favorite album in any genre. That may make it seem like I’m bias but this album is a classic and a 10/10 album, even in the eyes of people who aren’t big hip hop fans or just fans of Kendrick Lamar or any of his songs at all. The fusion of genres, the production, the lyrics perfectly placed guest featuresTo Pimp a Butterfly is one of the best albums I have ever listened to and my all time favorite album in any genre. That may make it seem like I’m bias but this album is a classic and a 10/10 album, even in the eyes of people who aren’t big hip hop fans or just fans of Kendrick Lamar or any of his songs at all. The fusion of genres, the production, the lyrics perfectly placed guest features and the overall flow of the album are just some of the things that make this album so great and timeless. This album seems like it will always be relevant and fitting in whatever political or social landscape we are in, and while that may be sad, being that this album is about life as an African American or Black citizen in this country and the struggles and hurdles that it brings on a human being, this is a perfect album to rebel to, and every revolution needs a soundtrack. It’s been well over 5 years since this album released but it never gets old will still give me goosebumps when listening to the beauty and emotion inside the hour and nineteen minutes of audio of To Pimp a Butterfly. A truly classic and timeless album from one of the best hip hop artists and one of the best artists of all time in terms of any genre and as time passes, To Pimp a Butterfly only seems to grow more important and improve as you look back on it and as you listen it.… Expand
  35. Retroexe
    Jul 1, 2020
    10
    Incredibly insightful, masterfully mixed, and challenges the listener to think
  36. Jurika7
    Jun 30, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Yleebi smnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnmmmnnnnnnnnnnnnnmmmnnnnnnnnnnnn… Expand
  37. Andrei20
    Jun 28, 2020
    10
    TPAB is my favorite music album from my favorite music artist. This and good kid maad city are the only albums that I can listen over and over again without getting bored or skipping songs.
  38. flameed
    Jun 26, 2020
    10
    the best rap album of all time, no debate imo. thematically slaughters every other single rap album to ever be released. U is the best rap song to ever be created, and these walls, blacker the berry, and how much a dollar cost can be argued to be top 15-10. this is a less watered down and more abrasive version of MBDTF.
  39. Real_g22
    Jun 15, 2020
    9
    Una belleza liricalmente hablando.
    Los ritmos quizás son un poco rebuscados (A excepción de King Kunta) pero el álbum es simplemente una joya de rap
  40. sweeterman
    Jun 9, 2020
    10
    This album puts Kendrick Lamar on a pedestal only set foot by a few artists in music history and the majority of them if not all are either Groups or bands whereas Kendrick Lamar might the only singular artist on this level.
    The writing: Superb Strorytelling: brilliant Production: crisp
    Overall : Masterpiece In my book this album I view it in the lens that only see other great albums like    This album puts Kendrick Lamar on a pedestal only set foot by a few artists in music history and the majority of them if not all are either Groups or bands whereas Kendrick Lamar might the only singular artist on this level.
    The writing: Superb Strorytelling: brilliant Production: crisp
    Overall : Masterpiece In my book this album I view it in the lens that only see other great albums like Ok Computer, Dark side of the moon to name a few.    … Expand
  41. Atum_
    Jun 8, 2020
    10
    This is my favorite album ever. The first ever album I got on vinyl. I think it's one of those albums that, unfortunately, always will remain relevant. This album is just so different from everything else. The instrumentals, Kendrick's lyrics and the narrative thread is all things that are worthy dissecting and studying. The narrative poem growing thoughout the album, and then concludingThis is my favorite album ever. The first ever album I got on vinyl. I think it's one of those albums that, unfortunately, always will remain relevant. This album is just so different from everything else. The instrumentals, Kendrick's lyrics and the narrative thread is all things that are worthy dissecting and studying. The narrative poem growing thoughout the album, and then concluding with a 2Pac interview is just truly a stroke of genius and a great way for Kendrick to get his point even further across: 2Pac was fighting for and writing about the same he is 20 years later, which illustrates the problem that racism is still alive and breathing. This album truly has no bad tracks, they're all so different in a multitude of ways. Personally my favorite track is Alright, who became an anthem for the black lives matter movement, in 2015 and againg in 2020 when the George Floyd riots started. This album will never be topped, this is the peak of hip-hop.… Expand
  42. Fnn
    Jun 3, 2020
    10
    I mean... yeh, It’s perfect. It’s crazy to think that I believed that Kendrick would never beat gkms.
  43. Balake
    May 18, 2020
    10
    I believe it's the hip hops first flawless album. No song is bad. My personal favorite being king kunta. The jazz influence is amazing aswell
  44. Josuerl2808
    May 10, 2020
    10
    Masterpiece. Kendrick presents a new way to understand the Hip Hop. Beautiful poem. Wonderful experience and instrumentalization.
  45. Farmermoe
    May 9, 2020
    10
    The best album I’ve ever heard no doubt in my mind. Genuinely flawless, I’ve tried I cannot find a single thing I dislike about this album
    Top 5 Tracks: Wesleys Theory, u, How Much A Dollar Cost, Alright, These Walls
    104/100
  46. Richard_Amor
    May 8, 2020
    10
    To Pimp a Butterfly is Kendrick Lamar’s third album release, and arguably his best work so far in his discography. Already a renowned lyricist, his rhyme patterns mixed with how he manipulates his voice and flow is ingenious in this album, affirming his stature as one of Hiphop’s most impressive rappers. The theme this album presents is nonetheless dramatic/philosophical, each trackTo Pimp a Butterfly is Kendrick Lamar’s third album release, and arguably his best work so far in his discography. Already a renowned lyricist, his rhyme patterns mixed with how he manipulates his voice and flow is ingenious in this album, affirming his stature as one of Hiphop’s most impressive rappers. The theme this album presents is nonetheless dramatic/philosophical, each track embedding a series of encrypted meanings of society specifically in America. Instrumentals are produced extraordinarily, each track has a sort of emotion that resonates off of it, providing varieties of feelings- bringing the listener into a deep state of thought. This album is arguably the best album I’ve personally listened to, each aspect of it is perfect- down to the overall uniqueness of the songs. Definitely solidifies Kendrick Lamar as the best rapper of possibly the decade.… Expand
  47. JesusMartinez
    May 6, 2020
    10
    In 50+ years, when people need to look back in history and discover life back in 2015, the BLM, and 400 years of systematic oppression, this will be the soundtrack to that life. And nothing else.

    An album that holds the test of time.
  48. jaokkkjj
    May 6, 2020
    10
    the jazzy and funky production is something from another world, the song ''for free?'' displays kendrick rapping over a jazz instrumental and its one of the most fun experiences that i ever had, the message is cohesive and important, the songs and the way they are arranged makes the experience completely enjoyable and the more you listen, the more the record grows in you. thank you forthe jazzy and funky production is something from another world, the song ''for free?'' displays kendrick rapping over a jazz instrumental and its one of the most fun experiences that i ever had, the message is cohesive and important, the songs and the way they are arranged makes the experience completely enjoyable and the more you listen, the more the record grows in you. thank you for this masterpiece, kendrick.… Expand
  49. barologist
    May 3, 2020
    10
    Excellent story, great flow, so much emotion and dedication can be heard and felt in this album.
  50. aabortus
    Apr 30, 2020
    10
    This album is amazing. this is basically a perfect album, the only things that could be better are some of the features and some of the instrumentals (which still are amazing). (one of) the best rap albums ever.
  51. UnRealyDuDe
    Apr 16, 2020
    10
    Best Kendrick Lamar album. Best rap album. Best album of decade. One of the greatest albums of all time.
    Songwriting on this one - is the brilliant and genius. I sat with my mouth open when i heard it for the first time. I cried when i listened to "u" and "How Much A Dollar Cost". This concept, this story and storytelling is incredible. Kendrick shows his artistry and emotional depth on a    Best Kendrick Lamar album. Best rap album. Best album of decade. One of the greatest albums of all time.
    Songwriting on this one - is the brilliant and genius. I sat with my mouth open when i heard it for the first time. I cried when i listened to "u" and "How Much A Dollar Cost". This concept, this story and storytelling is incredible. Kendrick shows his artistry and emotional depth on a highest level.
    Is the best produced rap album i ever heard. Jazz and Funk combined with Hip-Hop sounds perfect. This is the album of my life.    … Expand
  52. kop1
    Apr 7, 2020
    10
    Classic thank you kendrick a big album the sonority the song thé message speachless
  53. Tomatero9
    Apr 7, 2020
    10
    An innovative cultural and musical classic. This album solidifies Kendrick Lamar as the greatest rapper this generation and one of the greatest of all time. A brilliant concept album with fresh sounds and instrumentation in modern rap. The lyrics stand out as some of the best he has ever written and any songwriter has ever written. This album is the greatest rap album ever and just aAn innovative cultural and musical classic. This album solidifies Kendrick Lamar as the greatest rapper this generation and one of the greatest of all time. A brilliant concept album with fresh sounds and instrumentation in modern rap. The lyrics stand out as some of the best he has ever written and any songwriter has ever written. This album is the greatest rap album ever and just a couple listens will prove that to be a fact.… Expand
  54. erujabidi
    Apr 6, 2020
    10
    best **** album ever. kendrick outdoes himself again: his best project and it’s not even close, can’t believe there are comparisons to him/
  55. SoundAndFilm
    Apr 6, 2020
    10
    To Pimp A Butterfly is one of the most ambitious musical projects ever. Refusing to stick to a genre, TPAB is a constant voyage of musical discovery.


    Not only stunning musically, but with a storyline filled with symbolism, hard-hitting metaphors, and real world issues means there is absolutely no element of this album that can, or ever will be ignored.
  56. JakeWLovesRap
    Apr 2, 2020
    10
    Best rap album ever. Storytelling, lyrics, production, beats, perfectly used features. It's all there. A journey every fan of the genre needs to listen to at least once.
  57. ALousyUsername
    Mar 31, 2020
    10
    A modern Abby road, probably one of the best records ever made. A fantastic hip-hop record that transcends the genre and rap itself. Jazz, Soul, Hip-Hop, and you have TPAB. This record is a classic.
  58. Macrofficial
    Mar 25, 2020
    8
    A lot of people say this is Kendrick's best project, personally it's my 3rd favourite. Lyricism on this album is great. Favourite songs on this album are King Kunta, u, i
  59. MusicBumRusher
    Mar 19, 2020
    10
    This album is a vulnerable masterpiece which changed my life when I first listened to it.
  60. xander999
    Mar 18, 2020
    10
    this is one of my favorite albums of all time due to the many songs that have such high cultural meaning although GKMC is better
  61. MarkJulian
    Mar 7, 2020
    10
    My favorite album of all time, in any genre. Kendrick’s lyricism and concept is far better than anything I have ever heard. Just love this record.
  62. chiccoequina
    Feb 27, 2020
    10
    Nuff said

    o If that girl know's where you stay that's poor some whore banging on your door what for pregnant? what're you talking about this for fifteen, she's underage that's raw and against law 5 years or more and she wants a score and half of a draw some kind of friend that you try and ignore that whore got you pinned down to the floor but its your own fault you said three    Nuff said

    o If that girl know's where you stay that's poor
    some whore banging on your door what for
    pregnant? what're you talking about this for
    fifteen, she's underage that's raw
    and against law 5 years or more
    and she wants a score and half of a draw
    some kind of friend that you try and ignore
    that whore got you pinned down to the floor
    but its your own fault you said three magic words (i love you)
    when that's the one for the birds
    when you said that she forgot other boys
    its over you better start buying the toys
    there was no intention in front of your wife
    that…    … Expand
  63. GabrielPaz
    Feb 9, 2020
    10
    Tá aqui prova de tudo que o rap sabe e que tem a mostrar, se fosse pra mim dizer um álbum para escutar até eu morrer sem parar, To Pimp a Butterfly seria ele.
  64. farfetchedfan
    Feb 3, 2020
    7
    Like most of Kendrick's albums, very tasteful, but not very inspiring. Not as great as the reputation and accolades would suggest. Nothing about this album blew me away.
  65. K2droyd
    Feb 1, 2020
    10
    Quite simply one of the best, if not the best album I’ve ever heard. The building of the spoken word piece is still genius almost 5 years later.
  66. paulito8000
    Jan 31, 2020
    10
    wow. just... wow. such artistic perfection, political views on this world as well as introspective self viewing. perfection, flows, features... wow. i'm a white guy, i don't listen much to rap, but i recognize a masterpiece when i see one
  67. Kyle_Peake
    Jan 28, 2020
    10
    Incredible album, numerous lyrical themes with complexity are highly intriguing and the product is fantastic.
  68. Cway
    Jan 25, 2020
    10
    giving anything but a 10 is a disrespect to hip hop........................
  69. Caromax1
    Jan 25, 2020
    10
    the greatest album we'vthe greatest album we've heard objectively, it's a 11/10.
    Kendrick really is the new Prince, he understands music,
  70. sumstuf
    Jan 24, 2020
    10
    Hands down one of the best albums ever made. Give it like a good 5 listens before commenting cause you most likely won't understand anything in the first few listens.
  71. PeteIsFurious
    Jan 24, 2020
    10
    Definitively one of the best hip-hop albums of all time, not a bad track on it with a ton of hits
  72. CreativeRavine
    Jan 24, 2020
    10
    To Pimp A Butterfly is my favorite album ever released. This was the album that introduced me to the beautiful genre of hip-hop, which I have adored ever since. The beautiful, lush, jazzy production is incredible The story throughout this album is so perfectly portrayed. I feel like I'm watching a movie every single time I listen to this album. There's so many things to unpack, and it onlyTo Pimp A Butterfly is my favorite album ever released. This was the album that introduced me to the beautiful genre of hip-hop, which I have adored ever since. The beautiful, lush, jazzy production is incredible The story throughout this album is so perfectly portrayed. I feel like I'm watching a movie every single time I listen to this album. There's so many things to unpack, and it only gets better with each listen. So many amazing tiny details, wonderful bass lines, great rhythms, breathtaking instruments, amazing melodies and marvelous flows. Lyrically, Kendrick is as his best.

    Easiest 10/10 of my life.    … Expand
  73. bruger
    Jan 24, 2020
    10
    best rap album ever. period. probably top 5 of all time in every genre too. better than TES and MMLP by miles and miles.
  74. LukeNoctor
    Jan 24, 2020
    10
    For me this was the best experience I’ve ever had listening to an album, sound wise it is absolutely perfect and it’s story and concepts are absolutely genius. I have no doubt in my mind that this is the best album of the 2010’s. Amazing - 10/10
  75. dizzle29
    Jan 23, 2020
    10
    The greatest hip hop album of all time without a doubt, an all time classic
  76. Stormy97
    Jan 23, 2020
    10
    This is by far the greatest album since illmatic. It is one of the most important albums of all time and will be talked about as a hip hop classic for years. There is not enough good things that I can say about this album.
  77. Dankill
    Jan 23, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Well **** Kendrick went and did it again. This time even better. Once again the storytelling is incredible and the layers of meaning behind each track is unmatched in the rap game.… Expand
  78. Trevv
    Jan 23, 2020
    10
    Ggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggg this album is beautiful
  79. lvxomar
    Jan 23, 2020
    10
    Best album of all time. No competition. Literaylly could not have been written better
  80. Oryan
    Jan 23, 2020
    10
    Absolute masterpiece from beginning to end. One of the best albums of all time.
  81. adrianjsarias
    Jan 23, 2020
    10
    Una fantástica experiencia musical que te transporta de canción en canción a la visión del mundo de Kendrick Lamar. Se ha hablado mucho de los temas sociales tratados en este LP (raza, pobreza, hostilidad, para nombrar algunos) debido a la manera maestral en las que se presentan al oyente. Así te opongas a las opiniones de Lamar, puedes entender de donde viene.
    La instrumentalización es    Una fantástica experiencia musical que te transporta de canción en canción a la visión del mundo de Kendrick Lamar. Se ha hablado mucho de los temas sociales tratados en este LP (raza, pobreza, hostilidad, para nombrar algunos) debido a la manera maestral en las que se presentan al oyente. Así te opongas a las opiniones de Lamar, puedes entender de donde viene.
    La instrumentalización es magistral de igual manera, mezclando distintos géneros de una forma tal que alguien que no sea un fanático del funk o jazz puedan disfrutar. Fantástico disco    … Expand
  82. Rbz24
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    Nothin more influentiaI than rap music, I merge jazz music with the trap music,
    I mix black soul with some rock n roll... They never box me in I'm david blaine-ing all you use
  83. Pilkhoffer
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Kendrick is one of the greatest artist of the generation. TPAB is a masterpiece in every way.
  84. Jacob21
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Greatest album of all time.only made an account cause I saw the trash Eminem album passed it. Can’t let that happen
  85. Doritoscheetos
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Beautiful album all the way through no skips besides maybe for free. Definitely the best hip hop album I’ve heard… Expand
  86. rcuryer
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Best Rap Album of all time by far; the discography and themes explored are 10/10 and the storytelling style of experimental rap puts you in his position: if you liked Good Kid Maad City, this is similar but covers the theme better
  87. Troman21
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Simply amazing front to end, no bad tracks, just the best, this man rapped over jazz beats and it was amazing, nothing like it, the story is amazing, just go listen with an open mind.
  88. rickanartist
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Literally the perfect album, not a single second do i question Kendrick’s genius. The comments against this album’s replay value puzzles me because I can put on any song and vibe to it. I don’t want to get into its themes and storylines etc as that is overly discussed plus just in better ways than i could ever describe.
  89. heehaw14
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    To Pimp a Butterfly is an extravagant study into the soul of black america. Through lavish jazz production and expert lyricism, Kendrick Lamar expresses the exploitation o black americans at the hands of american commercialism and relates it back to his own survivor’s guilt , feeling like he hasn’t properly given back to his community. It is an excellent, poetic tale of a black artist’sTo Pimp a Butterfly is an extravagant study into the soul of black america. Through lavish jazz production and expert lyricism, Kendrick Lamar expresses the exploitation o black americans at the hands of american commercialism and relates it back to his own survivor’s guilt , feeling like he hasn’t properly given back to his community. It is an excellent, poetic tale of a black artist’s rise to stardom and return back home.… Expand
  90. vhsultra
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Kendrick Lamar’s 2015 masterpiece, To Pimp a Butterfly, consists of some of the smartest, most concise, and engaging lyrics on race relations and poverty in America, accompanied by precise and perfect instrumentation as well.
  91. Metahypnotoad
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    A perfect concept album that still resonates long after its release, certainly Kendrick Lamar's best album to date and one of my favourite albums of all time. While not a novel concept, few can pull off the fusion of multiple genres, including: rap & hip hop, rnb, jazz, and poetry, in the way that Lamar and his collaborators do here.
  92. Cozyhenny
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    To Pimp a Butterfly is easily one of the most important Hip-hop albums of the decade, and possibly of all time. As the album plays through, Kendrick slowly builds a poem that builds on the themes so beautifully that it gives listeners chills on their first listen. The interludes are great transition tracks and this is another part of the album where Kendrick’s pen game shines. The jazzy,To Pimp a Butterfly is easily one of the most important Hip-hop albums of the decade, and possibly of all time. As the album plays through, Kendrick slowly builds a poem that builds on the themes so beautifully that it gives listeners chills on their first listen. The interludes are great transition tracks and this is another part of the album where Kendrick’s pen game shines. The jazzy, funk based, politically charged record is a proper celebration of where the genre has been, and where it’s going.… Expand
  93. Siphumelele
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    It's without a doubt the best hip hop album of all time. It will live for many more generations.
  94. okbuddyjosh
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    The jazzy and almost simplistic instrumentals mixed with the smart and engaging story-telling makes this an album for the ages. Throughout the album, we are gifted a poem that continues throughout the story until it culminates in the 12-minute epic, Mortal Man. To add to this, the last line of the poem has to do with the song following it. For example, the poem at the end of These WallsThe jazzy and almost simplistic instrumentals mixed with the smart and engaging story-telling makes this an album for the ages. Throughout the album, we are gifted a poem that continues throughout the story until it culminates in the 12-minute epic, Mortal Man. To add to this, the last line of the poem has to do with the song following it. For example, the poem at the end of These Walls ends with "I found myself screaming in the hotel room" and the next song, u, begins with Lamar screaming. If you want to know more about the complex story, I recommend listening to the Spotify Dissect Podcast. Meaning aside, the album just sounds great. Most of the album takes influence from smooth jazz, but there are certainly outliers. For example, one of my favorite songs on it, The Blacker The Berry, has a sort of rock instrumental that really works well with the message it is delivering. All in all, this is a perfect album that should be up there with All Eyez On Me and Ready To Die for the most influential rap albums of all time.… Expand
  95. KarimShuman
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    Only got greater and greater over time. Easily the best album of the 2010s.
  96. bananapeeler52
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. very goof and i love it so much i is my favorite song on the album , but they are all great… Expand
  97. Gamemod
    Aug 8, 2018
    10
    I can see why everyone loves this album. The best album of 2015........................................
  98. urnolb
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    the idea that any eminem song is even in breathing distance of this masterpiece is offensive
  99. bonjourxz
    Jan 19, 2020
    10
    incrível e o melhor álbum de rap já feito, Kendrick não impressiona por ser um artista completo e nunca esquece da pauta importante que é o BLM - não só nos EUA - no mundo todo.
  100. somemusicpageig
    Jan 18, 2020
    10
    Looking back on this album, it’s still amazing. It”s aged very well and has both great production and rapping. Kendrick’s storytelling is off the charts here and the amount of emotion on songs such as ‘u’ is absolutely amazing. Possibly the greatest hip-hop/rap album of all time. 10/10
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best Album of 2015
3
#3 Most Discussed Album of 2015
11
#11 Most Shared Album of 2015

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
96

Universal acclaim - based on 44 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 44 out of 44
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 44
  3. Negative: 0 out of 44
  1. The Wire
    May 15, 2015
    90
    Lamar offers a commitment to effect change through the work itself. Whether or not that's realistic ideal the delivery is so powerful it's hard not to get caught up in the rapture. [May 2015, p.50]
  2. The Source
    May 6, 2015
    90
    Each song means more with reference to the project's overall concept than it does as a standalone record, which shouldn't take away from its impact, but rather speak of the courage of its creator. [Apr-May 2015, p.87]
  3. Q Magazine
    Apr 29, 2015
    80
    It's a challenging, ambitious combination of words and music that becomes increasingly absorbing over time. [Jun 2015, p.103]
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