Kendrick Lamar has recorded a dizzying array of stop-you-in-your-tracks rap verses in his career, and he’s proven he can attack from any angle. If he’s up for it, he can insert himself into as many headlines as possible with an explosive guest verse like “Control,” which broke the internet (and infuriated a long list of rappers in the process) back in 2013. Or he can flex his songwriting skills and weave together intricate storylines on a song like “Duckworth.” Alternatively, he’s just as effective locking into a great beat and simply rapping his ass off on a banger like “Backseat Freestyle.” He can do it all. In celebration of Kendrick’s 33rd birthday, we combed through his discography and highlighted his finest verses. Honestly, he’s accumulated so many standout moments over the past decade that this could have easily become a Top 100 list, but we chose to limit it to the cream of the crop. These are Kendrick Lamar’s best verses, ranked.
Kendrick Lamar’s Best Verses, Ranked
From the third verse on "King Kunta" to his guest verse on "Control," Kendrick Lamar has delivered many standout verses in his career. These are his best.
Image via Complex Original/Warren Cochrane
Complex MusicNewsletter
Stay ready. The playlists, good reads and video interviews you need—delivered every week.
By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you’re agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. You are also agreeing to our
Terms of Serviceand
Privacy Policy