luther

About this song

"luther" is the third track on Kendrick Lamar's sixth studio album, GNX, and was later released as its third single. It marks his sixth collaboration with his longtime friend SZA. The title comes from the heavily sampled "If This World Were Mine" by Luther Vandross.

What it's about

Over lush instrumentals, Kendrick imagines a world free of pain and conflict, replaced by light and empowerment for his lover, and says she keeps him grounded and inspired. SZA's ethereal voice adds raw vulnerability and a longing for connection and growth with her partner.

Fun facts

• Samples “If This World Were Mine by Cheryl Lynn (Ft. Luther Vandross)”.
• Sampled in 5 other songs, like “looter by static amour (Ft. krustynaaa)”.
• Covered 3 times, including “luther (Cover) by REI (IVE)”.
• Written by Kendrick Lamar, Ink, Sam Dew, SZA, Jack Antonoff and Kamasi Washington.
• Produced by Jack Antonoff, Kamasi Washington, M-Tech, Roselilah and Scott Bridgeway.