>Kendrick delivered arguably
>the greatest debut since Illmatic and in turn built the equity
>to do something like this.

agreed. I had to warm to the album, though, unlike TPAB, which I liked immediately.

>Trouble is, a little guidance from an experienced voice
>would've helped. I mean there's no way Dre was involved.
>There's no way TDE brought Jimmy in for a weekend. Are those
>guys old and maybe a little jaded at this point? Sure, but
>between the two of them they've fostered the early careers of
>Bruce Springsteen, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and Tom Petty to name a
>few.

I actually love the fact that it *appears* the big guys had no input. my assumption is that they did, given the multi-millions flying around for a project with this much attention.

>Some critics and online voices will like this album, but
>commercially it will flounder. I mean they ALREADY can't
>figure out how to sell it logistically, much less even started
>attempting to spin it creatively. There aren't any stirring
>songs, much less a clear cut single.

I think it'll do well, just because it's Kendrick and just because of the anticipation. It probably won't be a taylor swift-level blockbuster, but it won't flop. and speaking of t-swift, if this gets her endorsement, it'll do very well--she's a very public Kendrick stan. and the critical praise--or even controversy--it'll attract will at the very least keep things afloat until he delivers a blockbuster...think: "paul's boutique" and then what came afterwards. and fuck that, I still think "I" was a nod to MCA. and with how artsy-fartsy this record is, my feelings about how "I" is a tribute are now even furthered!!!

>The biggest shame is that his intentions were earnest and he
>really did try to deliver the record we need for these times.
>But it's just not focused. The messaging goes ten different
>directions, and that's sometimes ok if the soundscapes
>underneath are organized

I got some of the overall themes right away, which revolve around can't-go-back-home-success/survivor-guilt, self-doubt, dealing with fame, etc. and in that light, I can understand the chaotic soundscape.

>In short, he meant well and missed. He was at least cognizant
>of the current climate and the immense spotlight on him, he
>just didn't deliver. Unfortunately there will be
>repercussions. He could've ascended to another level on an
>Eminem-like trajectory, instead he's now on pace to be Nas - a
>truly fine and respectable career, but not a rock star.
>Additionally, Drake just put out what is arguably his best
>record and, whether you like it or not, is now officially your
>new king.

I thought he delivered, artistically at least, and I think he'll still be at that em-level. but regarding Eminem, on my second listen, TPAB really reminded me of MMLP, mostly cuz em and Kendrick were in similar places with respect to their careers. but whereas em lashed out and got really defensive ("way I am" "real slim shady" and even "stan" a little bit), Kendrick gave us a more soulful, inward-looking response. on the surface there's really nothing to pity ("ooh poor me, I'm a wealthy star now, but with problems I didn't ask for!!!"), but a lot of it is relatable on a human level.

>But Drake is too deliberate and, let's be honest, chicken shit
>to ever take this risk.

haha! I agree.

>To Pimp a Butterfly isn't good, and
>Kendrick's star will lose luster because it isn't good. But he
>should at least be commended for trying to do something so
>bold.

again, i think the album is VERY good, maybe even great (time will tell), and I think his star will shine just fine.