​Kendrick Lamar Claims 'DAMN.' Can Be Played Backwards

BY Sarah MurphyPublished Aug 25, 2017

Kendrick Lamar dropped DAMN. earlier this year, but fan theories about the album still continue to mesmerize listeners. Now, the rapper has confirmed that one of the most prominent rumours is, indeed, true.
 
Speaking to MTV News, Lamar admitted that DAMN. works just as well when played backwards.
 
"I think like a week after the album came out, [fans] realized you can play the album backwards," he said. "It plays as a full story and even a better rhythm. It's one of my favourite rhythms and tempos within the album. It's something that we definitely premeditate while we're in the studio."
 
Despite crafting a vivid narrative when played according to the tracklisting, playing the songs in reverse order reveals even more of the rapper's storytelling prowess.
 
"I don't think the story necessarily changes, I think the feel changes," he continued. "The initial vibe listening from the top all the way to the bottom is ... this aggression and this attitude. You know, 'DNA,' and exposing who I really am. You listen from the back end, and it's almost the duality and the contrast of the intricate Kendrick Lamar. Both of these pieces are who I am."
 
Lamar will be taking a break from his massive North American tour this Sunday (August 27) to hopefully pick up some trophies at the MTV Video Music Awards — he is, after all, nominated for eight awards.

Check out the backwards version for yourself by ordering DAMN. on CD via Umusic.

Latest Coverage