DJ Mustard And Sounwave Explain The Creative Process Behind Kendrick Lamar’s ‘GNX’

Kendrick Lamar’s GNX album was significant, featuring tracks such as the SZA-assisted “luther” and the momentum generated by “Not Like Us.” In a Variety article published on December 3, collaborators DJ Mustard and Sounwave shared details about Lamar’s creative process for the project.

Following the completion of his previous album, 2022’s Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, Lamar began working on music that would lead to GNX, set for release in late 2024. His extensive recording sessions resulted in around 100 songs, which he then narrowed down for the album.

Sounwave, who has collaborated with Lamar since the 2009 Kendrick Lamar EP, discussed the journey to the 12-song GNX. He described the initial phase as “throwing paint on the wall,” which evolved into a distinctive West Coast groove, reflecting their Compton roots. He recognized the importance of bringing in talented collaborators, like DJ Mustard and Jack Antonoff, to enhance the project’s depth.

Antonoff, known for his work with Taylor Swift, first collaborated with Lamar on the 2024 track “6:16 in LA,” while DJ Mustard contributed to the hit “Not Like Us.” Both played significant roles in shaping GNX. Mustard emphasized his intention to present Lamar with unique beats that deviated from his typical style.

His second major collaboration with Lamar, “tv off,” resulted from merging two separate instrumentals he had created. Mustard expressed a level of indifference about who exactly combined the beats, focusing instead on the outcome.

The track gained popularity partly due to Lamar’s energetic shout of “Mustard!” during its transition, even catching the attention of Heinz, which later collaborated with Mustard on a special condiment flavor.

Kendrick Lamar is also nominated for nine Grammy Awards in 2026, including Album of the Year for GNX.