The Unpopular Opinion: Why Section.80 Might Be Kendrick Lamar’s “Weakest” Album

It’s hard to call any Kendrick Lamar album “weak” since he’s a talented artist who pushes hip-hop to new levels. His albums, like good kid, m.A.A.d city and To Pimp a Butterfly, are outstanding.

If you had to choose one album that feels less impressive compared to his later works, it might be his first album, Section.80. This isn’t saying it’s bad but shows how much Kendrick has grown since.

Released in 2011, Section.80 gave us a taste of Kendrick’s storytelling and social commentary. Songs like “HiiiPoWeR” and “Keisha’s Song” highlighted his talent and bravery in addressing tough issues. The album was seen as a strong start.

But why is it seen as the “weakest”?

When you compare Section.80’s production to his later albums, it feels less polished and adventurous. The beats support the stories well but don’t reach the highs of his later works, like the live sounds in To Pimp a Butterfly.

Lyrically, Section.80 is good but doesn’t have the same depth as albums like good kid, m.A.A.d city, which tells a more complex story. While it explores important themes, Kendrick’s storytelling gets way better as he progresses.

In Section.80, Kendrick is still finding his voice. His later albums showcase his ability to shift between characters and emotions masterfully, which he had yet to fully achieve here.

In conclusion, Section.80 is a great debut that set the stage for Kendrick’s career. It’s packed with strong lyrics and stories, but compared to his later masterpieces, it’s just an earlier step in his journey. It’s “weakest” only because his other albums are so exceptional, making it an important start that deserves respect.