Kendrick Lamar Celebrates His Grammy Noms By Showing He’s Already Won

Yesterday (November 15), the 2023 Grammy nominations were announced. Kendrick Lamar received eight nominations ahead of the 65th annual Grammys taking place February 5, 2023 on CBS. Only bested by Beyoncé’s nine noms, K-Dot has received consideration in categories ranging from “Album Of The Year,” “Song Of The Year,” “Record Of The Year” and “Best Music Video” to “Best Rap Album,” “Best Rap Performance,” “Best Melodic Rap Performance,” and “Best Rap Song.”

Notably, five of Kendrick’s nominations are for promotional loosie, “The Heart Part 5.” The song, later added to Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, is competing extensively against DJ Khaled’s GOD DID title track, a collaboration that features a lauded JAY-Z verse alongside Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, John Legend, and Fridayy. Meanwhile, Kendrick’s double album is among the contenders for “Album Of The Year.” Kendrick’s win would be the first for a Hip-Hop in 19 years, following OutKast’s double LP win in 2004.

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A day after the announcement, Kendrick released his third music video from the 2LP, not including his Grammy-nominated “Heart 5” treatment. In this case, it’s K-Dot bringing “Rich Spirit” to the light. In the visual, directed by Calmatic, Kendrick raps along to his song with a lot of pep to his step. It seems right on time. He looks outside, prays thanks, and does a spirited dance in custom-embroidered cowboy boots. Amid the dancing, there is symbolism with sequences of Kendrick looking directly into the lens, lying on the floor with his fingers tapping, and a series of wardrobe changes. The environment is stylish, but desolate. It is a significant choice within an album about a couple—and a family—facing serious challenges. After talking on the phone, despite a disconnected landline, the video ends abruptly with him getting a call-back.

The video arrives in thematic spirit with Kendrick getting the call yesterday. Previously, Lamar performed this song on SNL.

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Calmatic, a South Central Los Angeles native, has previously made videos for Lil Nas X, Pharrell Williams, and Kendrick’s former Aftermath label-mate, Anderson .Paak.

Notably, the song is produced by DJ Dahi, who is a nominee for “Producer Of The Year.” He faces off against fellow Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers producer Boi-1da, who co-produced previous video single “N95.”

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Yesterday (November 15), moments after the win, Ambrosia For Heads reacted to the Grammy nominations—including breaking down the historic rivalry between Kendrick and Jay. That episode of the What’s The Headline podcast is embedded above. It also includes some noteworthy snubs, as well as predicted winners.

#BonusBeat: Ambrosia For Heads’ What’s The Headline podcast offered a comprehensive breakdown of Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, including meanings, themes, and additional context.