After taking gold in the 100m in London last year, Usain Bolt predictably caped his country’s flag over his back and galloped around the track for the world to see. This demonstration followed a remarkably gutsy performance that ultimately revealed what happens when an athlete steps up right when the doubters figured it much less than a guarantee.

In the same way, I picture Kendrick Lamar humbly, yet ferociously standing atop the podium accepting roars from the crowd as tokens of thanks for what he has just audibly bestowed upon our ears. Yes, you read the title correct. Kendrick has linked with Hov for a lively remix to his original track off of good kid, m.A.A.d. city.

The newly released remix is indisputably Kendrick’s victory lap around the track, cementing his place amongst the elite, and amongst greats like Jay-Z. Kendrick throws in a few new verses are remarkably refreshing. He even declares his goal to be the “God MC.” Jay, while riding shotgun on the track, yields the majority of the spotlight to Kendrick as he notably boasts “No, I don’t ‘member you/ I don’t intend to…” The rest of his verse is simply pure magic.

The track first popped up at the Austin, Texas-hosted SXSW festival. Amid rumors of the tracks existence, word spread like wildfire across Twitter and most of the major music blogs. It was a low-quality version that had people, myself included, scouring the web for a download link. Without luck, I hastily retreated back to my copy of good kid, m.A.A.d. city, fearing a long wait ahead of me. But I am happy to say now that an official remix has since been released and is available for mass consumption.

K-Dot was recently named MTV News’ “Hottest MC in the Game.” During an interview at Hot 97 in NY, Lamar, while still excited the recognition, reminded fans, “I love the stamp of being the hottest. It’s a cool thing. It’s a great thing for the time being. But my whole focus is on longevity in the game.” 

5/5