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. samwich21
    Jun 9, 2017
    10
    This album raised the hip-hop bar to the sky and above. No one in the game right now can touch Kendrick Lamar. Taylor Swift winning album of the year is the single largest mistake in Grammy history.
  2. AbeCallard
    Jun 4, 2017
    10
    The greatest hip hop album of all time. Production is funky, jazzy, tear-jerking, banging and philosophical all at once. Lyrics are poetic, deep, and playful. So much meaning behind it, and it is conveyed in a beautiful way. I'd say it's the only hip hop album to be in the top 20 albums of all time.
  3. Jensen67
    May 23, 2017
    10
    To Pimp a Butterfly by Kendrick Lamar makes me proud to be black... and I'm white. Absolute art in every way.

    Best songs: How Much a Dollar Cost / u / Alright
  4. elhenzo
    May 14, 2017
    10
    This is a great album. I was enjoying myself through every song and interlude. This album had a great concept, and I can't wait to see what's next for Kendrick.
    Favorite tracks: Wesley's Theory, King Kunta, Institutionalized, Momma, Hood Politics, How Much a Dollar Cost, The Blacker the Berry
    Least favorite track: Mortal Man
    Rating: 10/10
  5. Sal4u
    May 11, 2017
    10
    This album was so rich and so soundfull, i love how Kendrick mixed between smooth jazz and rap and i loved the lyrics they were so deep, i think thats the best album of 2015 or i can the best album of the decade so far.
  6. anofe
    May 8, 2017
    10
    Kendrick Lamar is at the peak of his craft with this album. The beautiful mix of jazz and hip-hop along with the story and issues he attempts to and successfully tackles in this introspective, social commentating masterpiece solidify his place as one the genre's all-time greats.
  7. Jammy
    May 7, 2017
    4
    I can't fault the ambition or creativity of To Pimp A Butterfly, nor the willingness to eschew the sound that launched Kendrick's career in favour of original, genre-breaking experimentation. I can't fault his subject matter, either.
    What I can fault, however, is just how ugly this album sounds. Flanged, nasal vocals, stale funk production with messy mixing, corny crass bars with subpar    I can't fault the ambition or creativity of To Pimp A Butterfly, nor the willingness to eschew the sound that launched Kendrick's career in favour of original, genre-breaking experimentation. I can't fault his subject matter, either.
    What I can fault, however, is just how ugly this album sounds. Flanged, nasal vocals, stale funk production with messy mixing, corny crass bars with subpar wordplay...
    There's only one song I'll ever return to, and that's The Blacker The Berry, which is the singular moment the stars are in alignment on this album. The production is crunchy and heavy, Kendrick brings energy to every verse and his voice is mixed nice and clean, the hook by Assassin is huge, the boom bap beat is like crack. Unfortunately, I love it because it's unlike pretty much everything else off TPAB.
    I understand this is an unpopular, dissenting opinion, and I'm in the minority here, but this album just sounds bad. I really wanted to enjoy this, but no amount of artistic merit in the world can force someone to enjoy music that sounds awful to them.
    Score: 4/10 [Below Average]    … Expand
  8. bdurmaz
    Apr 27, 2017
    10
    The best album of 2015, and probably the decade. So rich in sounds, so deep in lyrics, so well enginereed that even though I didn't think that Kendrick could not ever top Good Kid, M.A.A.D City, he certainly did it with TPAB.
  9. Yis
    Apr 23, 2017
    10
    This is by far my favourite hip hop album of all time, and I might not be the most educated on the hip hop side of music, but damn if this album isn't a great listen! On one hand it gives us amazing lyrics, that give us incredible insights into K-Dot's mind, and he meditates on the meaning of self-worth and his own self-worth on most of the tracks on the record. I feel like I can usuallyThis is by far my favourite hip hop album of all time, and I might not be the most educated on the hip hop side of music, but damn if this album isn't a great listen! On one hand it gives us amazing lyrics, that give us incredible insights into K-Dot's mind, and he meditates on the meaning of self-worth and his own self-worth on most of the tracks on the record. I feel like I can usually choose a favourite song from an album after having listened to it a couple of times, but I cannot do it with this record. Every single song is so incredibly amazing, and has a great message. The P-Funk and jazz influences on this record sometimes make it a challenging listen for most people, but for someone like me, who loves both those genres I find it an absolute blast to listen to. Wesley's Theory kick off the album with a great funky bass and beat, which hooks you right from the start. For Free? is an amazing interlude filled with wordplay, and great jazz. King Kunta is amazing funk, and has an amazing hook. Institutionalised gives us some amazing Kendrick voice changing, and a great feature from Snoop Dogg. These Walls has an amazing feel to it, and gives me more of the Kendrick I love, and has another amazing hook. u is one of my personal favourites off of the album, and has a great meaning of dealing with depression, and self-blaming and self-hatred. Alright is another incredible song! I could go on and on, but I'll stop by saying that the four song How Much A Dollar Cost, Complexion (A Zulu Love), The Blacker The Berry and You Ain't Gotta Lie (Momma Said) talks about discrimination, and the fact about being a black man in America with amazing detail, and incredible rhymes.

    Kendrick has really created a masterpiece, that I don't think will ever be outdone by another rap album, because of it's flow, production, Kendrick's lyrics and meaning that I have not heard any other hip hop record.    … Expand
  10. eboli
    Apr 22, 2017
    10
    This album combines elements of hip-hop, jazz, funk, rock, trap and much more, while sound incredible throughout. Kendrick's lyrics, flow, rhymes and concepts are astonishing. 10/10
  11. Jperalta
    Apr 19, 2017
    10
    Kendrick delivered the greatest piece of art in hip hop history. The production is amazing, storytelling is amazing, his lyricism is always amazing. The concept of the album blows your mind when the whole album is unraveled. No doubt my favorite album of all time.
  12. KaeDot
    Apr 19, 2017
    10
    There's nothing I can say about this legendary album that hasn't already been said before. This is a beautiful project that promotes self love and unity amongst the black community. Definitely a classic, and solidifies Kendrick as one of the best to ever do it.
  13. Seafood111
    Apr 17, 2017
    9
    One of Kendrick's best albums, no doubt. A mixture of Jazz and Blues beats over hard hitting, passionate rap and powerful messages about race and equality that can move even the most racially indifferent person.
  14. Bachiok
    Apr 16, 2017
    10
    This album is a masterpiece... there is nothing more to say. From the first track Wesley's Theory where Kendrick introduces the new sound of this jazz/funk/rap album which is like nothing i've ever seen before in hip hop to the last track Mortal Man where Kendrick finishes off telling a poem he had been slowly telling at the start of a lot of the tracks throughout the record and you findThis album is a masterpiece... there is nothing more to say. From the first track Wesley's Theory where Kendrick introduces the new sound of this jazz/funk/rap album which is like nothing i've ever seen before in hip hop to the last track Mortal Man where Kendrick finishes off telling a poem he had been slowly telling at the start of a lot of the tracks throughout the record and you find out his telling it to 2Pac where Kendrick interestingly took audio from an old 2Pac interview and wrote out the questions to ask that made it sound like Kendrick and deceased rapper Pac were conversing in the booth together about real world issues. To a lot of the people saying this album is pure trash the only reason i can understand that would be maybe the beats aren't what you expected coming off the successor to Kendrick's good kid m.A.A.d City and the first time i gave this album a listen i wasn't really a fan the album was an average score for me... but then i listened to the whole thing again and it became about a 7.5... then i listened to the whole thing again and it became a 9... in this album Kendrick has so much to say that to fully digest it and make up a constructive criticism on the entire body of work you need a good 4-5 full listens, now i've listened to this album in its entirety probably close to 300-400 odd times and it's amazing it is within my top 5 favorite rap records of all time, it may even be number 1. I urge people to really sit down and listen to this masterpiece i can understand that a lot of people didn't like the new jazz direction with the beats and were expecting something more GKMC like in terms of rap beats but this album really becomes a classic if you push past the original beat shock and give it a few chances and **** you may still not like it after that. I've heard people say that Kendrick Lamar is too real on this album, with subjects like politics and race and really the whole delving deep into those track themes, which is another plus for it in my opinion because the lyrics are smart lyrics, K-Dot isn't just saying random **** his making a statement, his weighing in on an opinion, his delving deep into the nitty gritty of real issues in an intelligent manner and i find to really enjoy the album you have to have a sense of intelligence to get his perspectives and understand the art that is To Pimp A Butterfly, this isn't just a masterpiece of an album it's the most IMPORTANT album i've ever heard, like there is a lot of albums out there that i can say are good or even great even masterpieces or must-listens, but i can't think of any record that i would explain as needing to exist, not just because i think it's a good album but i mean truly needing to exist in this world... a lot like oxygen, To Pimp A Butterfly is one of the only albums that really needed to have been created and the production TDE have done on this record combined with the lyrics and issues Kendrick has chosen to speak on and how the whole album is set out is a pure work of art, this album shouldn't be in people's homes, it should be like the Mona Lisa, framed and hung in an art gallery with only one single copy available, it's truly astonishing. Don't even do yourself a favor and go out and buy this, just buy it! you should already own this album, TPAB is very, very, VERY important.… Expand
  15. tommy1607
    Apr 16, 2017
    10
    This album is unquestionably one of the best hip-hop albums of the 2010s and possible of all time. Kendrick describes his experiences as a black man in the music industry and in America, both the universal problems of black people and Kendrick's own personal conflicts are addressed across the album over jazzy, soulful instrumentals. It may take a while to adjust to this blend of spokenThis album is unquestionably one of the best hip-hop albums of the 2010s and possible of all time. Kendrick describes his experiences as a black man in the music industry and in America, both the universal problems of black people and Kendrick's own personal conflicts are addressed across the album over jazzy, soulful instrumentals. It may take a while to adjust to this blend of spoken word and jazz but once the message of the album clicks then it is clear that it truly is a masterpiece.… Expand
  16. RahulB
    Apr 15, 2017
    10
    This album is the greatest i have ever listened to, this album is the reason why i love rap, this album is PERFECT. Every song fits and its all interesting and it makes you engaged and every song leads up to a MIND blowing ending.
  17. Palinodia
    Apr 15, 2017
    10
    This is a 10/10 album. Kendrick had it all, language - theme album - perfect composition - nice mix - wonderful cooperators, excellent choices and perfect mixed genres. Also Kendrick shows us some characters with his voice. This album is made outside of the box. Respect.
  18. Kelson
    Apr 15, 2017
    10
    The best rap album ever made. The lyrics, the instrumental, the metaphors, everything in the production of this album is so good that when we put it together to listen, it is nothing but a masterpiece, definitely an album that if you like it, you won't hear one time. Contributors such as Thundercat and Flying Lotus made the instrumental become so good as the singing. This is just anThe best rap album ever made. The lyrics, the instrumental, the metaphors, everything in the production of this album is so good that when we put it together to listen, it is nothing but a masterpiece, definitely an album that if you like it, you won't hear one time. Contributors such as Thundercat and Flying Lotus made the instrumental become so good as the singing. This is just an wonderful album. Nothing less than that.… Expand
  19. antonijames
    Apr 14, 2017
    10
    Simply a phenomenal and complete work of art that will go down in history as one of the smartest and most well structured albums ever made. Not just a hip hop album, but a hip hop album bathing in the waters of every other constructed genre out there
  20. gabrield1234
    Apr 12, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This album is maybe the best Hip Hop album of all time. Kendrick Lamar has amazing flow combined with ridiculous political awareness and it call comes together on this album. My top moment is definitely the 2pac thing at the end that feels so genuine and also so right. Top 10 of all time… Expand
  21. Sangang2716
    Apr 7, 2017
    10
    This was an amazing Album, Kendrick yet again makes music for an album like he's writing a book. would recommend it to anyone who likes hip-hop that paints a picture and tells an engaging and interesting story of trials and tribulations and personal suffering.
  22. LolItsDalton
    Mar 27, 2017
    10
    Just perfection. You can't do anything but love the beats, the delivery, and the story behind every single song. When I first listened to this album, I didn't like it. It was too weird, but the more I opened my ears to how meticulous every words is how unique the beats are, it's seriously hard to say "what could have done more?"
  23. djdenzel777
    Mar 24, 2017
    7
    Too many times is Kendrick given a pass for boring music because of the message he presents. While the message and lyricism on this project are notable, the music itself is quite lacking.
  24. Nardeen
    Mar 11, 2017
    10
    I rarely give 10s or even 9s to rap albums, but this one's special. Kendrick talks about the issues his people back home are facing. Not much else to say, this album is just fantastic.
  25. Grooby
    Mar 8, 2017
    10
    Kendrick Lamar's 'To Pimp a Butterfly" is without a doubt a masterpiece. It is definitely Kendrick's best album yet and perhaps the best Hip Hop/Rap album of the decade. "To Pimp a Butterfly" will be recognised as a definitive moment in Hip Hop'Rap history. To the funky and catchy "King Kunta", the jazz influenced, dark and disturbing "u", the aggressive, heart-pounding vibes of "TheKendrick Lamar's 'To Pimp a Butterfly" is without a doubt a masterpiece. It is definitely Kendrick's best album yet and perhaps the best Hip Hop/Rap album of the decade. "To Pimp a Butterfly" will be recognised as a definitive moment in Hip Hop'Rap history. To the funky and catchy "King Kunta", the jazz influenced, dark and disturbing "u", the aggressive, heart-pounding vibes of "The Blacker the Berry" and to the Grammy Award winning "i', this album is an absolute astounding masterpiece. A must buy for Hip Hop/Rap fans or anyone that just loves music.… Expand
  26. JanekAdam
    Mar 6, 2017
    10
    This album has created its own genre. Rap is heading in a different direction from the ballsy gangster rap and for good reason. Conscious, politically charged and introspective.
  27. LukeDzk
    Feb 16, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Kendrick Lamar produces another life changing album! Kendrick Lamar captures the passion, energy, and love of rapping in this album. Kendrick Lamar is now the best rapper right now and puts himself in consideration as one of the best rappers of all time!… Expand
  28. Blarschnarph
    Jan 9, 2017
    10
    This is the greatest album I have ever listened to. Without a doubt. From the amazingly layered and perfectly mixed jazz-based production, to the deep lyrics and even deeper concept. everything about this album is perfect. Something I've only ever been able to say about one other album. This album brings its listener to another level of thought while also being pretty accessible and atThis is the greatest album I have ever listened to. Without a doubt. From the amazingly layered and perfectly mixed jazz-based production, to the deep lyrics and even deeper concept. everything about this album is perfect. Something I've only ever been able to say about one other album. This album brings its listener to another level of thought while also being pretty accessible and at many times very catchy. This album has impacted my life on a personal and spiritual level. It had an impact on how I now perceive the world as well as in my own art. Listen to it. You will, at the very least appreciate the artistry of this album. And that's what this album is. A work of art.… Expand
  29. VerIncognito
    Dec 19, 2016
    10
    This isn't a typical rap album. This isn't even a typical excellent rap album. Rather, this album exemplifies the current times we live in, when racial inequality exists, especially when unarmed black men are killed by white people in disproportionate numbers. Not to mention, income inequality still exists, although the black community are making progress. That's not mentioning theThis isn't a typical rap album. This isn't even a typical excellent rap album. Rather, this album exemplifies the current times we live in, when racial inequality exists, especially when unarmed black men are killed by white people in disproportionate numbers. Not to mention, income inequality still exists, although the black community are making progress. That's not mentioning the musicality of this album, which takes influences from jazz, but with a palpable gusto on alerting people about current affairs. As for the musicality, this album has made an influence on David Bowie's "Blackstar," which is also critically acclaimed as this album. I say, To Pimp a Butterfly isn't an album to ignore.… Expand
  30. GoddHowardd
    Dec 9, 2016
    10
    The Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band of Hip-Hop/Rap. Instant classic and definitely a benchmark in music history. I have no more words to explain how legendary this piece of art is. 11/10.
  31. Jiano74
    Nov 10, 2016
    3
    This album is nothing special. As someone who grew up listening to Eminem, that is what I class as brilliant rap music, that and the work of 2Pac and Biggie but this has to be one of the most overrated albums of all-time.
  32. Beck7512
    Aug 19, 2016
    10
    Brilliant album, iv'e never heard anything more incredible than this in the 2010's, my favorite album of the decade so far. It expands on it's beats instead if the normal trap beats that are on like every single album today. His rhymes are beyond poetic and his socially aware mind makes the album even more enjoyable. Great production credits too such as Terrace Martin, Boi-1da, Dave Free,Brilliant album, iv'e never heard anything more incredible than this in the 2010's, my favorite album of the decade so far. It expands on it's beats instead if the normal trap beats that are on like every single album today. His rhymes are beyond poetic and his socially aware mind makes the album even more enjoyable. Great production credits too such as Terrace Martin, Boi-1da, Dave Free, Flying Lotus, Sounwave,Thundercat, Pharrell Williams, and more. Great album and a modern day CLASSIC!!!!!!!… Expand
  33. Mesmerize
    Aug 9, 2016
    10
    10.0
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  34. Nk1055
    Jul 15, 2016
    10
    Kendrick Lamar puts together a masterpiece with this album. This is one album that we'll be talking about decades from now. It's a landmark in musical history and deserves its right to be. From the opening track 'Wesley's Theory' to the ending 12 minute long epic 'Mortal Man' the album is perfection at its finest. The mixture of jazz and funk into these beats is immensely tasteful andKendrick Lamar puts together a masterpiece with this album. This is one album that we'll be talking about decades from now. It's a landmark in musical history and deserves its right to be. From the opening track 'Wesley's Theory' to the ending 12 minute long epic 'Mortal Man' the album is perfection at its finest. The mixture of jazz and funk into these beats is immensely tasteful and leaves no boring moments on this project.… Expand
  35. ryansliao
    Jul 8, 2016
    9
    Section 80 and GKMC were great albums, but I didn't like those albums quite as much as most Kendrick fans did. But this album? It's simply amazing. I found the subject matter to be more substantial, the production here much more experimental and fit for my taste, and the album much more cohesive and thematic than his previous albums. I love the new funk and jazz bits. Kendrick'sSection 80 and GKMC were great albums, but I didn't like those albums quite as much as most Kendrick fans did. But this album? It's simply amazing. I found the subject matter to be more substantial, the production here much more experimental and fit for my taste, and the album much more cohesive and thematic than his previous albums. I love the new funk and jazz bits. Kendrick's storytelling ability has never been better shown off. My only criticism is that you might end up listening to specific tracks rather than enjoying the entire album as intended.

    Favs: King Kunta, Alright, The Blacker The Berry, How Much A Dollar Cost, Wesley's Theory, These Walls, i
    Least Favs: Hood Politics    … Expand
  36. SumitSumbria
    Jun 9, 2016
    4
    An exceptional piece pf art with a great message but where is music??? This is ironically a music album which has not got music. It is a collection of some random melodies which sound relevant sometimes.
    Favourite tracks - i and Wesley's Theory
    Jewel of the album - i
  37. raywithajay
    Jun 3, 2016
    10
    To Pimp a Butterfly is a raw, emotionally intense record. Straying from the production style of GKMC, this album is mainly funk and jazz, using samples from James Brown and the Isley Brothers. Lamar masterfully illustrates the dark emotions that come with success. Each track perfectly transitions to the next; the album starts with Lamar celebrating the highs of success, then crashing downTo Pimp a Butterfly is a raw, emotionally intense record. Straying from the production style of GKMC, this album is mainly funk and jazz, using samples from James Brown and the Isley Brothers. Lamar masterfully illustrates the dark emotions that come with success. Each track perfectly transitions to the next; the album starts with Lamar celebrating the highs of success, then crashing down as he realizes how little he can utilize his success to aid his family and the people around him. Finally, he attains happiness as he realizes his love for his faith, his home, and most importantly, himself. This album will go down as a classic in rap history, due to its unparalleled lyrics, and production. TPAB is one of the best concept albums released in the past decade… Expand
  38. WANGWEST
    May 30, 2016
    10
    Probably one of the best albums of the year. Taylor Swift obviously doesn't have enough talent, energy and creativity like Lamar does. Should have won Album of the Year! This album talks about real issues such as racial inequality, extremely unfair targeting and overrepresentation of incarceration of African-Americans which is too high and African-Americans still being stereotyped asProbably one of the best albums of the year. Taylor Swift obviously doesn't have enough talent, energy and creativity like Lamar does. Should have won Album of the Year! This album talks about real issues such as racial inequality, extremely unfair targeting and overrepresentation of incarceration of African-Americans which is too high and African-Americans still being stereotyped as thugs! This speaks real life and truth for Black Americans across the country. This man is probably more brilliant than Drake! If I could gives this album an 11 I would!… Expand
  39. reubenrudduck
    May 27, 2016
    10
    Kendrick is focused and determined to make the best album he could, absolutely beautiful, stunning on so many levels. To Pimp A Butterfly is unbelievably crowded with ideas but still never looses sight of what it aims to be, a musical masterpiece.
  40. SergioV
    May 25, 2016
    7
    73/100. Ok, I understand why this album is rated so amazingly, and I also don't. Yes it is a great politically driven lyrical performance, but there's also something to be said for just the simple listening-ability to the music itself. Some songs are so weird and out there that it's hard to listen to, and as a whole it drags down the album. Although some songs really make this album an odd73/100. Ok, I understand why this album is rated so amazingly, and I also don't. Yes it is a great politically driven lyrical performance, but there's also something to be said for just the simple listening-ability to the music itself. Some songs are so weird and out there that it's hard to listen to, and as a whole it drags down the album. Although some songs really make this album an odd anomaly in the Hip-Hop world, there are some hits. The best tracks are "King Kunta", "Alright", "The Blacker the Berry" and "i".… Expand
  41. kxng
    May 4, 2016
    10
    This is a flawless, important hip-hop album. Not only does Kendrick Lamar find ways to relay messages we all need to invest the time to listen too, he does it while remaining true to his craft and giving us great music. This is not an easy listen, this album is not for those with a short attention span, but if and when you truly give it the time, everything from the instrumentation to theThis is a flawless, important hip-hop album. Not only does Kendrick Lamar find ways to relay messages we all need to invest the time to listen too, he does it while remaining true to his craft and giving us great music. This is not an easy listen, this album is not for those with a short attention span, but if and when you truly give it the time, everything from the instrumentation to the powerful lyrics will hit you in a way like not many albums can. Records like "Institutionalized", "Wesley's Theory", "U", "Hood Politics" "Alright" 'How Much Does A Dollar Coast" and "Momma" are probably among my personal favorites as Kendrick touches on everything from bringing his homies from his hood to the BET Awards to the ultimate clash and conflict a person can go through within them self to his upbringing playing into a greed so strong he can't bring himself to give his hard earned money to someone in need, which ultimately costs him a trip to heaven. Like I've stated this album isn't for everyone, but it's a beautiful piece of art that should be appreciated. It seems like those who need it the most are the ones who won't give it the time. Classic album.… Expand
  42. thrills
    May 1, 2016
    10
    Incredibly dense and powerful album from start to finish, that seems to only reveal more with repeated listens and sound consistently amazing with age.
  43. sentend
    May 1, 2016
    10
    I know i have to use 150 characters but you only need 1 to sum up this album. Masterpiece. Kendrick Lamar has really emerged as the top name in rap at the moment and it is absolutely justified on the beautiful heartbreaking LP.
  44. ice-cold
    May 1, 2016
    10
    god touched this album. this album is literally perfect in every way imaginable. this is the second - if not the greatest - rap album ever. all hail king kendrick.
  45. thewave
    Apr 29, 2016
    4
    I think this is an album with a great message, but it fails in quality of sound compared to his other works. I also feel like the audience the message was intended to did not receive it and paritally defeats the purpose of the album. I still think he is a great artist who is trying to expand his sound, but I also feel he is straying away from hip hop sound.
  46. thethoughthere
    Apr 23, 2016
    10
    There's not much I can say about "To Pimp A Butterfly" which hasn't already been said. This album is an absolute masterpiece. I have not experienced anything quite as amazing, quite as transcendent, nor quite as musically gorgeous which was contemporary to my adulthood.

    If Cornrow Kenny can come through with another album as stellar as TPAB, he will unarguably be in contention for    There's not much I can say about "To Pimp A Butterfly" which hasn't already been said. This album is an absolute masterpiece. I have not experienced anything quite as amazing, quite as transcendent, nor quite as musically gorgeous which was contemporary to my adulthood.

    If Cornrow Kenny can come through with another album as stellar as TPAB, he will unarguably be in contention for Greatest of All Time. A truly perfect album.    … Expand
  47. khany
    Apr 10, 2016
    10
    With the release of TPAB, it seems as if people all around the world are giving this album solid 10s and giving it the album of the year spot and even claiming it to be the best hip hop record of the decade, and honestly, I can absolutely see why. On first sight, for those who loved good kid m.A.A.d city this is going to be a departure, and many might see the jazzy influence and say "no".With the release of TPAB, it seems as if people all around the world are giving this album solid 10s and giving it the album of the year spot and even claiming it to be the best hip hop record of the decade, and honestly, I can absolutely see why. On first sight, for those who loved good kid m.A.A.d city this is going to be a departure, and many might see the jazzy influence and say "no". I say to those, listen, and listen again, because this album is one of the most important albums to our generation. A social commentary regarding what is contemporary America, if not the world. Race, sex, depression, acceptance, injustice, violence, every single heavy theme has been layered onto this album eloquently and lightly, with Kendrick giving his side of the view, and sometimes, others' as well. An example being when he is talking about the outrage of police violence to the white man, but balancing that with a commentary on gangs and gang violence to the black community as well. This combined with nostalgic yet contemporary jazzy, smooth, rich production makes this album one of the most artistically and lyrically intelligent and stellar albums, and one that must be experienced on a whole. This album is incredible, and even non-hip hop fans will have some form of appreciation.

    There's no reason for a black man to be given these awards willy nilly, thats not how our society works, unless it's Kendrick - it's that good.

    If his next album (excusing untitled unmastered.) is better than this, Kendrick will objectively become the best rapper of all time.    … Expand
  48. iHateKayla
    Apr 2, 2016
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Kendrick Lamar's experimentation with different sounds and instruments show the versatility with different kinds of music. He uses classic boom bap rap, jazz, soul, and classic hip hop, and uses those as the main idea for To Pimp A Butterfly. The catchy more-for-the-people-who-won't-dig-deeper-into-his-lyrics 'Alright' track along with the dark,grimy, kinda southern-style hip hop track 'The Blacker The Berry' shows that he is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to rap. This album as more ups and downs, and the theme of this album is spectacular. The story that he is telling here is incredible, and I personally recommend to anybody looking for the classic hip hop that has been scarce in this decade. Kendrick Lamar knew what he wanted to do with this album and did it his way. Not many things I can say that are bad about this album. Kudos to Mr. K-Dot on his 3rd solo studio album.… Expand
  49. Swishalicious29
    Apr 1, 2016
    10
    This is an album that after only being released a year ago is being deemed a classic, and rightfully so. The production is catchy and jazzy, the lyrics deep and philosophical, and features varied and great. One of the best albums of 2015 and one of the best rap records of the past decade.

    I've been a fan of Kendrick's since his debut Section .80. He continually impresses me and put    This is an album that after only being released a year ago is being deemed a classic, and rightfully so. The production is catchy and jazzy, the lyrics deep and philosophical, and features varied and great. One of the best albums of 2015 and one of the best rap records of the past decade.

    I've been a fan of Kendrick's since his debut Section .80. He continually impresses me and put together a great concept album with his sophomore album. To Pimp a Butterfly is even more grand than that. The lyrics are coded, but can be read into. "Blacker the Berry" is a real highlight discussing racial issues with a killer beat and a great chorus. "Alright" and "King Kunta" are very catchy songs and the jazzy beats on "These Walls" and "Wesley's Theory" are stellar.

    This album requires multiple listens. It discusses grand issues and lets you the listener decide what to think about these issues. The features lead to some great experimental moments and the use of horns and saxes mesh well. Can't recommend this album enough.    … Expand
  50. hiimsmart
    Mar 27, 2016
    10
    This album is one of the most beautiful pieces of artwork I have ever listened to in all 24 years of my life. Every track, EVERY SINGLE TRACK, incited a strong and deep emotional reaction in me. I can't tell you how many times I almost cried listening to Institutionalized and How Much Does a Dollar Cost. Hell, I'll be laying in bed singing 'S hit don't change until you get up and wash yoThis album is one of the most beautiful pieces of artwork I have ever listened to in all 24 years of my life. Every track, EVERY SINGLE TRACK, incited a strong and deep emotional reaction in me. I can't tell you how many times I almost cried listening to Institutionalized and How Much Does a Dollar Cost. Hell, I'll be laying in bed singing 'S hit don't change until you get up and wash yo ass, nig ga'.

    To say that this album speaks to me on a spiritual level would be an understatement. I can't find words that do this album justice. This album is so versatile; like you could listen to one of the songs off of it and get the message of the album. But in the same stroke, you can listen to the entire album in one sitting and get the largest emotional charge of your life.

    This album made 2015. **** Taylor Swift winning over this album, because everyone 20 years from now will still hold this up as a defining musical achievement of this century. This album deserves every accolade it gets and more. There's nothing more that I can say other then listen to this before you die.    … Expand
  51. QuincydaVinci
    Mar 15, 2016
    10
    This is a very well developed album from Kendrick Lamar. Somehow he always maintains to give the listener a message to think about. In a time where rappers are focused on cadence and melodic flows..Kendrick still stays true to himself by delivering some technical rhyme schemes and patterns. His message and lyrical ability fused with funk creates something unique to modern rap music.
  52. Chriscon31
    Mar 14, 2016
    10
    This album is amazing. Everything from the creative way of mixing jazz, funk, soul, and hip hop to the writing was near perfection. The content, lyrics, content, and instrumentals were amazing.
  53. caleb466
    Feb 26, 2016
    10
    Perfect album. innovative, creative, beautiful, political, intense, meaningful, complex, unbelievable flows, unbelievable beats, unbelievable instrumental and vocal performances from anna wise, great production by flying lotus, and outstanding instrumental work from artists like kamasi Washington and thundercat nominated for 11 grammys and should have won every one.
  54. Sanat_Sharma
    Feb 23, 2016
    10
    Kendrick raps about institutionalized racism and about black poverty, while incorporating elements of jazz and funk in his music. It is a singular piece of music so diverse and sophisticated in its roots making it one of the best pieces of music released in a long time. Kendrick bares his all in the songs, incorporating something for everyone. From the fast tempo dance based beats in KingKendrick raps about institutionalized racism and about black poverty, while incorporating elements of jazz and funk in his music. It is a singular piece of music so diverse and sophisticated in its roots making it one of the best pieces of music released in a long time. Kendrick bares his all in the songs, incorporating something for everyone. From the fast tempo dance based beats in King Kunta and I, to the dark, melancholic and powerful music in U and How Much a Dollar Costs, the album is a complete package. The album delivers one star-song after another, one punch after another. This incredible body of work casts light on the plight of African Americans as well as his experiences with racism, and would indeed be considered one of the greatest albums ever produced in years to come.… Expand
  55. TrentBizub
    Feb 18, 2016
    10
    This is an album that will stand the test of time. Kendrick lays down raw, unfiltered, and conscious poetry to incredible tracks that blend funk, jazz, and hip hop. His best work yet.

    Favorite Tracks: Wesley's Theory, For Free? (Interlude), King Kunta, Institutionalized, u, Alright, Momma, Hood Politics, How Much a Dollar Cost, The Blacker the Berry, and i.
  56. itsbrunos
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    This is the best work of Kendrick and one of the Best albums of 2015 for sure... That's it!
  57. ILIKEBJS
    Feb 14, 2016
    10
    A literal masterpiece in every conceivable way. The narrative, the message are coherent and consistent throughout. An album you can listen to dozens of times and find new intricacies every time. Production and recording is amazing. The best album of 2015, should win the Grammy for Best album of 2015. Kendrick's Opus.
  58. PerilousPanda
    Feb 12, 2016
    10
    Kendrick Lamar’s major-label albums play out like Spike Lee films in miniature. In both artists’ worlds, the stakes are unbearably high, the characters’ motives are unclear, and morality is knotty, but there is a central force you can feel steering every moment. The "Good and Bad Hair" musical routine from Lee’s 1988 feature School Daze depicted black women grappling with colorism andKendrick Lamar’s major-label albums play out like Spike Lee films in miniature. In both artists’ worlds, the stakes are unbearably high, the characters’ motives are unclear, and morality is knotty, but there is a central force you can feel steering every moment. The "Good and Bad Hair" musical routine from Lee’s 1988 feature School Daze depicted black women grappling with colorism and exclusionary standards of American beauty. Mookie’s climactic window smash in 1989’s Do the Right Thing plunged its characters into fiery bedlam, quietly prophesying the coming L.A. riots in the process. In these moments, you could feel the director speaking to you directly through his characters and their trajectories. Lamar’s records, while crowded with conflicting ideas and arguing voices, have a similar sense of a guiding hand at work.
    Lamar’s new album, To Pimp a Butterfly, doesn’t explicitly bill itself as a movie like good kid, m.A.A.d city did, but the network of interlocking dramas explored here feels filmic nonetheless, and a variety of characters appear across the album’s expanse. The opener, "Wesley’s Theory", turns the downfall of action-star-turned-convicted-tax-dodger Wesley Snipes into a kind of Faustian parable. Snoop drops by on "Institutionalized"; Dre himself phones in on "Wesley". The mood is wry, theatrical, chaotic, ironic, and mournful, often all at once: On "For Free? (Interlude)" an impatient woman ticks off a laundry list of material demands before Kendrick snaps back that "This dick ain’t free!" and thunders through a history of black oppression, spoken-word style, as if to say, "This money you crave, it’s blood money." The album is dotted with surreal grace notes, like a parable: God appears in the guise of a homeless man in "How Much a Dollar Cost", and closer "Mortal Man" ends on a lengthy, unnerving fever-dream interview with the ghost of 2Pac.
    The music, meanwhile, follows a long line of genre-busting freakouts (The Roots’ Phrenology, Common’s Electric Circus, Q-Tip’s Kamaal the Abstract, André 3000’s The Love Below) in kicking at the confines of rap music presentation. There’s half a jazz band present at all times; pianist Robert Glasper, producer/sax player Terrace Martin and bass wizard Thundercat give Butterfly a loose, fluid undertow every bit as tempestuous and unpredictable as the army of flows at Kendrick’s disposal. The rapper’s branching out, too, exploding into spastic slam poetry on "For Free?", switching from shouty gymnastics to drunken sobs on "u" and even effecting the lilt of a caring mother on "You Ain’t Gotta Lie (Momma Said)". It turns out Kendrick’s new direction was every direction at once.
    Despite all this, he’s still toying with a narrative on the sly: Just beneath the surface lies a messianic yarn about avoiding the wiles of a sultry girl named Lucy who’s secretly a physical manifestation of the devil. Kendrick refuses to dole out blame without accepting any, however, and on the chaotic free jazz excursion "u" he turns a mirror on himself, screaming "Loving you is complicated!" and suggesting his fame hasn’t helped his loved ones back home. Kendrick’s criticisms, as they did on good kid, come with powerful, self-imposed challenges. As Bilal quips on the chorus to "Institutionalized": **** don’t change until you get up and wash your ass, ****
    Kendrick’s principle of personal responsibility has treaded dangerously close to respectability politics lately, especially after a prickly remark about the Mike Brown shooting in a recent Billboard interview that seemed to pin the death on the victim, but To Pimp a Butterfly avoids that trap. (Mostly.) "Complexion (A Zulu Love)" is a tender note of appreciation for women of all skin tones with help from North Carolina rapper Rapsody (whose slickly referential guest verse contains a nod to "Good and Bad Hair"). This is an album about tiny quality of life improvements to be made in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. It might not be the message we want in a year where systemic police and judicial inequality have cost many the ultimate price, but that doesn’t bankrupt it of value.
    To Pimp a Butterfly pivots on the polarizing lead single, "i". Upon release last autumn, the sunny soul pep talk came off lightweight and glib. When it appears deep in the back end of Butterfly, though, "i" plays less like the jingle we heard last year and more like the beating heart of the matter. To push the point, the album opts for a live-sounding mix that ditches out midway through, giving way to a speech from the rapper himself. In tone, the speech is not unlike the legendary 1968 concert where James Brown waved off security and personally held off a Boston audience’s fury after news broke that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had been assassinated. "How many **** we done lost, bro?" Kendrick shouts over the crowd. "It shouldn’t be **** for us to come out here and appreciate the little bit of life we got left." - Pitchfork    … Expand
  59. corei
    Feb 8, 2016
    10
    The night this album was released, I listened to it, and right after the last song, i said to myself "This is the album of the year." And in one week, it will be.
  60. joncroney
    Feb 7, 2016
    9
    To Pimp A Butterfly, is nothing short for what it actually means. Kendrick Lamar creates yet another classic by throwing a different twist on things. It is clear to say that Lamar is in a category of his own with this when and yet again proves why he is to be one of the greats. With a wide range of vocabulary, Kdot gives his fans something that will last a life time. "I made this for theTo Pimp A Butterfly, is nothing short for what it actually means. Kendrick Lamar creates yet another classic by throwing a different twist on things. It is clear to say that Lamar is in a category of his own with this when and yet again proves why he is to be one of the greats. With a wide range of vocabulary, Kdot gives his fans something that will last a life time. "I made this for the people who are in jail," Lamar said in an interview. Explaining that this music is something that you can really listen to for a long time and it can bring you long ways. I believe that Kendrick will be successful at the Grammy's with the 11 nominations that he has. And I also think he will walk away with Album of the year as well.… Expand
  61. NickSiscoe
    Feb 5, 2016
    10
    This is an album for people who truly appreciate music and many different genres and don't listen to crap trap just to drink and "turn up to". This is an album that you need a high IQ to understand and is the album of a life time and is by far my favorite ever.
  62. mattgirdler
    Feb 5, 2016
    10
    My expectations for this album were incredibly high after good kid, m.A.A.d city, but To Pimp a Butterfly still blew my mind. It takes you on a journey through musical styles and emotions. Simply a masterpiece.
  63. Lovdahl
    Jan 31, 2016
    8
    In my opinion, much better than GKMC. I really enjoy the production on this album. Kendrick found the heavy hitters necessary to take his established West Coast rap sound and introduce it to jazz and R&B. Names like Flying Lotus, George Clinton, Bilal, Kamasi Washington, and Thundercat are found in the credits, and their influence shows throughout the seventy-eight minutes of music. It’sIn my opinion, much better than GKMC. I really enjoy the production on this album. Kendrick found the heavy hitters necessary to take his established West Coast rap sound and introduce it to jazz and R&B. Names like Flying Lotus, George Clinton, Bilal, Kamasi Washington, and Thundercat are found in the credits, and their influence shows throughout the seventy-eight minutes of music. It’s complex and compelling stuff, and Mr. Lamar’s ability to rap as well as he did on “Good Kid, M.A.A.D. City” is a testament not only to his technical skill, but also to his passion for this project’s integrity. Overall, it’s a great piece of music and will certainly not be forgotten.… Expand
  64. Tonyo
    Jan 30, 2016
    9
    Quel plaisir de retrouver Kendrick avec un excellent album comme celui-ci!!!

    Coup de cœur: King Kunta, For Free (Interlude), Alright & Hood Politics.
  65. redjackb123
    Jan 30, 2016
    10
    when i first listened to this album i was not feeling i loved Kendrick's other work (good kid m.A.A.d city) i decided to go back to it and it is now one of my favorite albums of all time. truly a masterpiece
  66. wcrosher
    Jan 22, 2016
    10
    The best album of 2015 and quite possibly one of the greatest albums of all time. To Pimp a Butterfly is a movement, and it's one that you can listen to time and time again.
  67. lisiak
    Jan 8, 2016
    10
    The best album of 2015, even if I prefer 'If you're reading this it's too late'. :) Best tracks: 'King Kunta', 'Alright', 'The Blacker The Berry'. 10/10
  68. Jumpman
    Jan 8, 2016
    10
    This album is a masterpiece and brought kendrick in the center of attention . The other day my mother asked me to put it on because she read about it on the newspaper and my respond was a loud fart because she was repeatedly making ironic comments about it when i played it at home(without knowing which album is it). Once she read a good review about it she was ready to hear and call itThis album is a masterpiece and brought kendrick in the center of attention . The other day my mother asked me to put it on because she read about it on the newspaper and my respond was a loud fart because she was repeatedly making ironic comments about it when i played it at home(without knowing which album is it). Once she read a good review about it she was ready to hear and call it amazing. The album is great but the convo about it is hyping kendrick so much which is irritating when coming from irrelevant people. I hated my mother that day but generally i love her because she is my mother.… Expand
  69. Sergio2008
    Jan 6, 2016
    10
    Kendrick Lamar has been in the forefront of Hip Hop's resurgence. The self-proclaimed "leader of the new school" proves as such on this seminal masterpiece, and easily the best album of 2015. Kendrick Lamar prowess as a lyricist is on full display here. The soulful and jazz-like production serve the album well. There is no good song on the album, because they are great and serve anKendrick Lamar has been in the forefront of Hip Hop's resurgence. The self-proclaimed "leader of the new school" proves as such on this seminal masterpiece, and easily the best album of 2015. Kendrick Lamar prowess as a lyricist is on full display here. The soulful and jazz-like production serve the album well. There is no good song on the album, because they are great and serve an inspirational purpose. Kendrick's emotions are the star of this great album, showing anger, repent, and love for all of life's obstacle. One of the greatest albums in Hip Hop history, and one of the best of it's generation.… Expand
  70. 1jaytrain
    Jan 2, 2016
    10
    March 15,2015 was when my perspective of rap and music as a whole changed,hell my persepcive of the world was sorely shifted. In The Blacker The Berry Kendrick spites:"been felling this way since i was 16" but thanks to TPAB im feeling this way when im 15 years of age. a little over 8 months since the album dropped and im still finding myself percieved and absorbed to its masterpiece whenMarch 15,2015 was when my perspective of rap and music as a whole changed,hell my persepcive of the world was sorely shifted. In The Blacker The Berry Kendrick spites:"been felling this way since i was 16" but thanks to TPAB im feeling this way when im 15 years of age. a little over 8 months since the album dropped and im still finding myself percieved and absorbed to its masterpiece when i listen to TPAB i think to myself,what nostalgia because im feeling the same way he is… Expand
  71. Rarewarefan64
    Jan 2, 2016
    10
    What an incredible album. A very thought provoking and damn well produced album. One of the best albums of the past decade of any genre. I personally did not dabble into Lamar's discography until the release of this album. But man, this is incredible and the man behind it created one incredible album!
  72. andrew260z
    Dec 30, 2015
    10
    King Kendrick! You've done it again! Its a **** masterpiece don't care if you don't like rap or hip hop this album is fantastic, tells a story, a poignant, relevant album and a well deserved AOTY on metacritic.
  73. AaronM
    Dec 29, 2015
    2
    There is nothing memorable about this album. I have a distaste for meaningless rap and that's all To Pimp A Buttlerfly is. While it is admirable to change the sound of the music created, it fails miserably as far as substance, direction, and cohesiveness. I was expecting some far better after Good Kid, Mad City.
  74. mahfoudhhannani
    Dec 24, 2015
    10
    After first hearing this work of art I couldn't handle how amazing it is. Kendrick Lamar went all funky on this one. A one of a kind poet. This is a legendary rap album.
  75. KrissMethod
    Dec 23, 2015
    10
    This album better get a Grammy for a lot of things! Lots of Grammys and lots of awards! This album has so much meaning and lyrical flow to it! I couldn't ask for a better purchase when I took a trip with my band class to Tennessee!
  76. IronGaming_
    Dec 22, 2015
    9
    AMAZING Record. I love this album to death. I say the only downside the album has is the replay value, because I can't sit down and listen to this unless I'm in the mood, that's why it gets a 9 instead of a 10, but this is **** amazing record, if you get the chance check this out right away.
  77. AlecSweatshirt
    Dec 8, 2015
    10
    Its hard to comprehend the fact that Kendrick could have to upstaged the masterpiece that was "Good Kid, Maad City" but he did. This LP takes us into another sound that keeps the rap feel but with instrumentals that have never been heard on this big of a scale. The messages, stories, and beats make this album a benchmark in not only Hip-Hop history, but all of music...
  78. quotes
    Dec 7, 2015
    10
    Rating: 10
    Just perfect, that is the album of the year. The lyrics, the melodies, the way Kendrick is rapping, the essence of the record… everything sounds as a one thing, perfectly connected. Kendrick makes uses elements of funk and jazz in his melodies, mixing with the hip-hop rhythm; the lyrics are full of references and they sound clear and subtle, and you get inside his wave of    Rating: 10
    Just perfect, that is the album of the year. The lyrics, the melodies, the way Kendrick is rapping, the essence of the record… everything sounds as a one thing, perfectly connected. Kendrick makes uses elements of funk and jazz in his melodies, mixing with the hip-hop rhythm; the lyrics are full of references and they sound clear and subtle, and you get inside his wave of thoughts and feelings while you are listening to it. **** genius! There is not so much to say, just that “To Pimp a Butterfly” is only poetry.

    Listen to: King Kunta, u, Alright, and Mortal Man.    … Expand
  79. pinkraop
    Dec 7, 2015
    10
    I saw the reviews calling it a classic when it came out. I didn't have time to listen to it so I waited, without any opinion formed yet. After a couple of months I came back to it, I discovered the story of the album (the collage of situations to be more precise), the emotional end, the meaning of the title, and I fell in love with TPAB. The production is superb also.
  80. r0tan0rtan
    Dec 2, 2015
    9
    Rounded up from 9.6

    This is a huge improvement on good kid m.A.A.d. city, which to me, was a borderline classic that was weighed down by a couple tracks that were less than amazing (Real, Poetic Justice, Compton). This time around, the only misstep is "You Ain't Gotta Lie (Momma Said)", which I didn't love sonically, but still loved the message that was being told. The entire album and    Rounded up from 9.6

    This is a huge improvement on good kid m.A.A.d. city, which to me, was a borderline classic that was weighed down by a couple tracks that were less than amazing (Real, Poetic Justice, Compton). This time around, the only misstep is "You Ain't Gotta Lie (Momma Said)", which I didn't love sonically, but still loved the message that was being told. The entire album and its messages are forward thinking, relevant, emotional, and thought provoking. The fusion of jazz, funk, hip-hop, and some soul makes for some real ear candy that has kept me coming back over and over.

    The seven song run from "These Walls" to "How Much a Dollar Cost" is really quite magical, and matches the first seven songs from Yeezus for my favourite song sequence on a hip-hop album this decade not named My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.

    Tracks I loved (9-10) : Wesley's Theory, For Free?, King Kunta, These Walls, u, Alright, For Sale, Momma, Hood Politics, How Much a Dollar Cost?, The Blacker The Berry, i, Mortal Man

    Tracks I Liked (7-8) : Institutionalized, Complexion (A Zulu Love)

    Tracks on the fence (5-6) : You Ain't Gotta Lie (Momma Said)

    Tracks I Disliked (3-4) : N/A

    Tracks I hated (0-2) : N/A    … Expand
  81. dijavantewow
    Dec 1, 2015
    10
    This is easily the best hip hop album of 2015, and one of the best albums overall. Kendrick lyrical ability to talk about so many issues including social, political, personal, etc., is just incredible and the production on the album is on point all of the way through. This was an instant classic and something we will compare other albums to in the future.
  82. bigdaddykane
    Dec 1, 2015
    10
    LA doin' big things again. It's good to see anotha young **** from the block holdin' it down for LA and Compton. The legends supportin' you, son. Big Daddy Kane supports this album.
  83. owenw218
    Nov 30, 2015
    10
    King Kendrick continue to lead the rap game. This album is an amazing continuation of his legacy, and the outro with Pac is perfect. In my opinion, Kendrick is the realization of the mind that Pac sparked that will change the world. If you like Kendrick, check out this album, it's excellent.
  84. AmirAbdiJama
    Nov 25, 2015
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Kendrick Lamar Made Didn’t Just Made An Album, It’s A Whole Life Experience Into It, A Constitution, He Talked About The Problems That African American In The World Can Have From Money, Seeking Success, Trapped In The Ghetto, Sex, Depression, Faith, Seduction, Experience, Politics, Racism, Violence, Truth, Self-Love And Mortality, A Music This Precise, Delivering Not Only The Problems But With The Solution In Context, Exceptional Intellect Behind A Great Concept, Real Lyrics With Original Instrument Reflecting The Heritage From Funk Or Jazz, And The Beauty Lies In Summary Of The Songs Idea In The End Of Each Song, It’s Not Commercial Album, I Regard This As A Lesson To Be Taught, A Words Which Are Words Gained Life Through This Perfect Arrangement, Personally I Think It’s One Of The Interesting Album Ever Made And I Want To Thank Kendrick Lamar For Doing This For Us, Not Seeking Any Commercial Or Financial Goals, And There Are Ones Who Appreciate This Album, Thank You .… Expand
  85. tcomer
    Nov 24, 2015
    10
    Kendrick Lamar is a lyrical genius full of soul and passion. Listening to this album like I do many times, going back to most artist's music is impossible. His flow and creative style and the amount of deep analysis he puts into the music is unmatched. KENDRICK LAMAR IS KING KUNTA.
  86. ben_zo77
    Nov 21, 2015
    10
    To Pimp A Butterfly is a legendary album. This one record ensures that Kendrick Lamar will go down as one of the greatest rappers of all time. It's a beautifully artistic and musical project, one that is also a snapshot of America's current political atmosphere. Kendrick has completely abandoned any and all mainstream tendencies that he has demonstrated at times in the past. We've goneTo Pimp A Butterfly is a legendary album. This one record ensures that Kendrick Lamar will go down as one of the greatest rappers of all time. It's a beautifully artistic and musical project, one that is also a snapshot of America's current political atmosphere. Kendrick has completely abandoned any and all mainstream tendencies that he has demonstrated at times in the past. We've gone from Section.80 to good kid, m.a.a.d city to TPAB.. I'll be waiting anxiously to see if K-Dot can progress even further with his next album. ~ 9.5/10
    Best track: "Hood Politics"
    Other notable tracks: "King Kunta", "These Walls", "u", "The Blacker The Berry" & "i"    … Expand
  87. jacobcorbin
    Oct 27, 2015
    10
    This is an album that both takes the old school of hip-hop and blends with neo-funk, and true spoken word, and modern electronica. This is easily one of the greatest albums of the decade so far (written in 2015) and this album will definitely be established as one of the greatest rap albums of all time.
  88. agibbons_96
    Oct 27, 2015
    10
    When Dr. Dre latest understudy Kendrick Lamar released "good kid, m.A.A.d. city" in 2012, it quickly became regarded as one of the new millennium's best concept albums (depicting the struggles of a young black man from Compton, California), earning Lamar a staggering SEVEN Grammy nominations in 2014. However, he failed to win a single award that night, losing four of his nominations toWhen Dr. Dre latest understudy Kendrick Lamar released "good kid, m.A.A.d. city" in 2012, it quickly became regarded as one of the new millennium's best concept albums (depicting the struggles of a young black man from Compton, California), earning Lamar a staggering SEVEN Grammy nominations in 2014. However, he failed to win a single award that night, losing four of his nominations to Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, and losing out on Album of the Year to Daft Punk's "Random Access Memories". Expectations amongst critics, fans and fellow musicians reached fever pitch in the weeks leading up to the album's release, which also seen its lead single, “i” win two Grammy's earlier this year.

    Lamar's third effort adds funk, jazz and soul to his hip hop sound, which are used in unorthodox fashion, with many sudden sonic and rhythmic changes throughout its hour-nineteen running time. However, these shifts work to the album's advantage, making it sound more like a movie soundtrack than an album. The cinematic-like production creates an atmospheric and dense sound, often feeling powerful yet never overpowering, and is brilliantly summed up with the surprise addition of a "live" version of "i" in favour of the Grammy-winning original. The album has a huge guest presence, with over FIFTY musicians involved with the album's production, including Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Pharrell Williams and Parliament-Funkadelic's George Clinton. Even with this large line-up, Lamar's presence is dominant throughout, who never lets his guests dominate proceedings. The vocal guests provide stellar performances all round, with particular praise to Snoop Dogg on "Institutionalized", Bilal and Anna Wise on “These Walls”, and to George Clinton and Thundercat for their overall presence and influence on the funky opener "Wesley's Theory".

    Many of the album's tracks delve into black culture in modern America in a way most albums have rarely ever done. Other themes include depression, hope, self-pride and hypocrisy. Lamar takes these themes, treating them with delicate care they deserve and delivering his lyrics with flow and conviction throughout, and this shows very well on "u", where Lamar's depicts an individual in a deep depression - where his vocals brilliantly continuously crack and break during the track's second half. The tone of "u" is contrasted on the next track, "Alright" where Lamar refers to his faith in God to offer him hope in life. "These Walls" refers to how Lamar used his fame to have sex while "The Blacker the Berry" sees him directly address hypocrisy and the continuing discrimination of the black community in twenty-first century America – who also provides a menacing rapping performance.. The closer, "Mortal Man", sees Lamar directly challenge his fans, asking will they still be there "When **** hits the fan".

    Despite the broad lyrical scope, the way Lamar ties the entire album together is nothing short of genius. At the end of the funky "King Kunta", Lamar uses spoken word to say the lines, "I remember you was conflicted / Misusing your influence", which acts as a segue into "Institutionalized". On nearly every song after this, he repeats these lines, but adds more each time, and whatever words Lamar ends on, dictates the theme of the following song. On "Mortal Man", this passage is finally revealed to be a poem, which is written in a way that each of the album's themes are addressed at the exact same point on the album as they are in the poem. If that isn't enough, Lamar has been telling this poem to none other than 2Pac, who incredibly engages in conversation with the deceased rapper, talking about the music industry and their hopes for the black community in America, which sounds amazingly organic. Taking snippets from a 1994 interview involving 2Pac, Lamar wrote questions to compliment 2Pac's answers in what is nothing other than a complete **** moment! The final words on the album, spoken by Lamar, sees him reveal the meaning behind the album's title, which is actually extremely poignant and very beautiful, justifying why “To Pimp a Butterfly” was the perfect choice for the album title.

    Lamar was always seen as an understudy to Dr. Dre, but has blown that theory right out of the water here, and while "good kid, m.A.A.d. city" was nothing short of brilliant, what Lamar has done here is do something no mainstream artist has done in years - he's released a game-changing album that also has the potential to change people's views in modern society. Albums like this set benchmarks in popular music - like the Beatles "Sgt. Pepper's", Michael Jackson's "Thriller", Nirvana's "Nevermind" or Adele's “21” did before him, and will no doubt go down as one of popular music's greatest ever albums. The album itself is not only a work of genius, but proves, once and for all, that Kendrick Lamar himself is a genius! An essential listen!

    Album Highlights - "Wesley's Theory", "King Kunta", "The Blacker the Berry", "i" and "Mortal Man".    … Expand
  89. umarhaidarboss
    Oct 19, 2015
    10
    A masterpiece if ever there was one. A classic and a half. Simply brilliant.
  90. Ricko
    Oct 18, 2015
    7
    "To Pimp A Butterfly" has been lauded across the board as a gamechanger for the genre. I'm unconvinced. Undoubtedly it's got its moments - "King Kunta", "Institutionalised", "You Aint Gotta Lie" and "Mortal Man" are all standouts. Musically it has more going on than most hip hop albums and is excellently produced. Lyrically it does have a lot to say, even if it can't help itself with"To Pimp A Butterfly" has been lauded across the board as a gamechanger for the genre. I'm unconvinced. Undoubtedly it's got its moments - "King Kunta", "Institutionalised", "You Aint Gotta Lie" and "Mortal Man" are all standouts. Musically it has more going on than most hip hop albums and is excellently produced. Lyrically it does have a lot to say, even if it can't help itself with vulgarity. It's a solid effort deserving of a 7 or 8 out of 10. That's what I'm giving it. I prefer East Coast stuff.… Expand
  91. thisorthebear
    Oct 17, 2015
    10
    This album is more akin to a novel or a rigorous study of a persons character, views, and ambition under the divisive American system of "all lives matter," when policy often deviates from that "rule." It's dense, it's deep, and dark, but it ends not only with a glimmer of hope and realness, but with a call for true change. Is this Kendrick's magnum opus, currently yes, but this albumThis album is more akin to a novel or a rigorous study of a persons character, views, and ambition under the divisive American system of "all lives matter," when policy often deviates from that "rule." It's dense, it's deep, and dark, but it ends not only with a glimmer of hope and realness, but with a call for true change. Is this Kendrick's magnum opus, currently yes, but this album suggest we may be witnessing the greatest rapper not only of his generation, but of all time.… Expand
  92. howellc
    Oct 15, 2015
    10
    To Pimp a Butterfly to say in the least, was one of the greatest works of art in the 21 century. The quality and content of the album was superb, and surpassed all of my expectations.
  93. MillerFF
    Oct 6, 2015
    10
    Listening to this album from start to finish, while analyzing every lyric, may have been the greatest musical experience of my life to date. Kendrick does not disappoint in his newest concept album, which hits its climax at the track, "The Blacker the Berry." Possibly the best work of 2015, and Kendrick's best album ever.
  94. exodus9237
    Sep 29, 2015
    10
    This album is exclusive in my daily life. Is the only album that I hear everytime, literally everytime, I hangout with my friends. We can't get enough of it, and me and my friends have different tastes. In between the indie rock bands, and psych bands, and pop artists, we always listen, we enjoy at least half of this album, and enjoy it equally. Is like it is built, first, musically toThis album is exclusive in my daily life. Is the only album that I hear everytime, literally everytime, I hangout with my friends. We can't get enough of it, and me and my friends have different tastes. In between the indie rock bands, and psych bands, and pop artists, we always listen, we enjoy at least half of this album, and enjoy it equally. Is like it is built, first, musically to entertain everyone who has an affection for this art, and second, lyrically to really make you think about all these important contemporary issues that everybody should think about. Kendrick Lamar is really an artist, and, in my opinion, we all should keep paying attention to his music, his work and, redundantly, his art.… Expand
  95. Mannhorse
    Sep 26, 2015
    10
    If you had a bottle, and you managed to capture the very essence of brilliance in it, then it would be called To Pimp a Butterfly. This album is the best record of 2015, and makes J. Cole's album look like mere crap by comparison. Also, this record is the best album of the decade, and the grandest statement ever made by a rapper in years. It's up there in the ranks of Madvillainy orIf you had a bottle, and you managed to capture the very essence of brilliance in it, then it would be called To Pimp a Butterfly. This album is the best record of 2015, and makes J. Cole's album look like mere crap by comparison. Also, this record is the best album of the decade, and the grandest statement ever made by a rapper in years. It's up there in the ranks of Madvillainy or Illmatic. You are doing yourself a disservice if you do not buy this album.… Expand
  96. koothrappali
    Sep 25, 2015
    10
    Isso é arte pura. Melhor álbum de rap da atualidade, junto com os do Kanye. Todas as músicas tem produções e rimas impecáveis, que faz o não amante de rap começar a gostar. King Kunta com certeza é a melhor música do álbum.
  97. MikeHueber
    Sep 24, 2015
    10
    This album truly had an influence on my life. I have been listening to it for the last six months and I still have yet to find something that truly dissatisfies me. The only reason that I would say this album isn't perfect is because, of course, nothing is truly perfect (but this is as close as it gets). This album covers a variety of important themes that we should all consider at someThis album truly had an influence on my life. I have been listening to it for the last six months and I still have yet to find something that truly dissatisfies me. The only reason that I would say this album isn't perfect is because, of course, nothing is truly perfect (but this is as close as it gets). This album covers a variety of important themes that we should all consider at some point in our lifetimes. It touches on things like self-doubt, discrimination, anger, revenge, and "the search". I'm sure we all have had the thought, "What will make me truly happy?". This album seems to be a representation of Kendrick's search for true happiness while he reflects on some of the most important things happening in his life, happening in politics, and happening in society. It has opened my eyes to "the search" (for happiness) and that's more than I can say about any other album that I've ever listened to.… Expand
  98. murdertime15
    Sep 21, 2015
    10
    A album that is truly poetic in its rhymes and use of words that tells a story and really shows his creativity when raping about real word problems.It really shows that Kendrick is trying to get his word out there and it certainly has caught my attention as his originality shines
  99. LeFelixBrown
    Sep 20, 2015
    10
    A modern masterpiece of ironclad social politics, piercing lyricism, fiercer-than-fierce song-writing that some would say puts the likes of NWA to shame, and with an ever-present enthusiasm from Kendrick Lamar. This album is a straight-forward, in-your-face statement wrapped in poetry and imagery stronger than I think anyone was anticipating.
  100. mc_ryn
    Sep 18, 2015
    10
    this is amazing. no one will ever be like kendrick lamar, his art is perfected. Every song is made to perfection, the story is embedded so well in the music. The story is amazing to listen to.
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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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