squabble up

About this song

The track was first teased as a 15-second snippet in the music video for "Not Like Us" on July 4, 2024. It gained momentum after Mercedes AMG used it to promote their Formula One season and it appeared in an NBA broadcast, and it went viral on TikTok. The song was released on November 22, 2024, as part of Kendrick Lamar's surprise album GNX, and its music video followed on November 25, 2024.

What it's about

The title draws on L.A. slang that can mean either fighting or dancing, depending on context. That double meaning reflects the song's mix of confrontation and celebration.

Fun facts

• Samples “When I Hear Music by Debbie Deb”.
• Sampled in 11 other songs, like “Mr. Headshot by Fortye (Ft. static amour)”.
• Covered once, including “squabble up by Ayra♡_Music”.
• Written by Kendrick Lamar, Jack Antonoff, Scott Bridgeway, Sounwave, M-Tech and Pretty Tony.
• Produced by Kendrick Lamar, Jack Antonoff, Scott Bridgeway, Sounwave and M-Tech.