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2025 NAACP Image Awards: 7 Kendrick Lamar Music Videos That Hit as Hard as His Verses

From the surreal imagery of “HUMBLE” to the cultural anthem “Alright,” these iconic visuals showcase the West Coast native’s unmatched creativity.

Kendrick Lamar has long proven that his artistry extends far beyond the mic.

Since his debut in 2011 with tracks like “HiiiPower” and “A.D.H.D,” the West Coast legend has delivered music videos that elevate his songs into cinematic experiences. Whether the “Not Like Us” hit make is working with visionary directors like Dave Meyers, Joseph Kahn, or longtime collaborator and friend Dave Free, Kendrick consistently pushes creative boundaries. From the socially charged imagery of “Alright” to the layered storytelling in “DNA,” Lamar’s visuals are as thought-provoking as his lyrics.

It’s no surprise that the emcee is being recognized for his visual and cultural contributions at the NAACP Image Awards 2025, where he has received multiple nominations, including Outstanding Music Video/Visual Album, Entertainer of the Year, and more. Ahead of this year’s ceremony, which will air live on February 22, check out seven music videos that turned Kendrick Lamar’s songs into visual masterpieces. 

  • “Not Like Us”

    Kendrick's electrifying visuals for his monumental hit "Not Like Us" capped off what many call the most legendary battle royale in hip-hop history. Co-directed and executive produced with Dave Free, the music video showcased appearances from several West Coast icons, including NBA superstar DeMar DeRozan, Mustard, Tommy the Clown, and hundreds of Compton residents, who provided the hometown love as the project filmed in their hometown.

  • “The Heart Part 5”

    Released as part of his Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers era, “The Heart Part 5” took the internet by storm with its deepfake technology, allowing Kendrick to morph into figures like Kanye West, Will Smith, and the late Nipsey Hussle. 

    Directed by Kendrick and Dave Free under their pgLang banner, the video garnered millions of views within hours of its release on YouTube. As of 2025, it’s been viewed over 47 million times. 

  • “HUMBLE.”

    Directed by the iconic duo of Dave Meyers and The Little Homies (Kendrick and Dave), “HUMBLE” became an instant classic with its striking visuals and provocative imagery. This included scenes of the emcee dressed as the Pope and a recreation of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper.

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  • “N95”

    Another standout from his “Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers” album, the visual for “N95,” finds Kendrick confronting societal hypocrisies. 

    Co-directed by him and Dave, the music video opens with the rapper floating in a Christ-like pose over water and the words “THIS SH— HARD” plastered on the screen—a striking image that sets the tone for the rest of the video’s commentary on materialism and morality.

  • “All Of The Stars” feat. SZA

    Dave Meyers and The Little Homies reunite again for the “All Of The Stars” music video from Marvel’s “Black Panther” soundtrack. The visual is a celebration of African heritage and Black excellence that blends Afrofuturistic aesthetics with regal imagery.

    The project earned nominations for an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and a Grammy, including over 480 million views on YouTube.

  • “Alright”

    Directed by Colin Tilley and The Little Homies, “Alright” is widely regarded as one of the most iconic music videos of the 2010s. Shot entirely in black and white, the visual sees the rapper navigating scenes of police brutality, creating a powerful narrative of hope and resistance. 

    With over 182 million views on YouTube and a Grammy win for Best Music Video, it remains a cultural anthem that inspires social justice movements. 

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  • “Squabble Up”

    “Squabble Up” is a standout track from K Dot’s unexpected album GNX, which arrived last November. Directed by Calmatic, the visuals and set design nod to the iconic music video for “The Next Movement” from The Roots' classic 1999 album “Things Fall Apart.” 

    Packed with tons of Easter eggs, the video is a tribute to California's culture, honoring the legacy of West Coast hip-hop and beyond.

    Watch the NAACP Image Awards live on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 8:00 pm ET/PT on BET.

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