If you’re like us, Kendrick Lamar’s DAMN has remained in heavy rotation ever since its release in April. And, if you’re like us, you’ve also been enjoying the album in reverse order.
When DAMN was released there was immediate talk of a second album — there wasn’t. But, for those keen enough to hear the cues and hints provided throughout, there sort of was a follow-up. Putting the songs in reverse order and pressing play provided a new (and even better, IMO) experience.
When asked about it, Kendrick and company would coyly laugh or change the subject — until now. Sitting down with MTV, Kendrick finally confirmed what the lucky ones already knew.
“I think like a week after the album came out, fans realized you can play the album backwards,” Kendrick told MTV. “It plays as a full story and even a better rhythm. It’s one of my favorite rhythms and tempos within the album. It’s something that we definitely premeditate while we’re in the studio.”
“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.”
Now, if you can’t figure out how to do it (or just lazy), I put together a playlist with the songs in reverse order back in April — you can check it out on Apple Music now.
