KENDRICK & SZA’S “LUTHER” VIDEO FEELS LIKE A VISUAL LOVE LETTER
Kendrick Lamar and SZA dropped the video for “luther,” and honestly? It’s giving art.
The whole thing feels less like a music video and more like a short film—quiet, intentional, moody, and packed with symbolism. Directed by Toronto’s very own Karena Evans (you already know), the visual leans into minimalism in the best way. It’s soft without being sleepy, poetic without being too precious.
And it works.
The Spaces Between Them Say Everything
The video is built around architecture that’s almost too big for the people in it—brutalist buildings, wide open halls, long, stretched-out corridors. Kendrick and SZA never really share the frame in a traditional way. They’re close, but not too close. Always reaching, but not quite touching. It’s giving tension.
You can feel the push and pull. It’s sensual, but there’s also distance—like love and desire wrapped in restraint. And that contrast? It makes you feel everything all at once.
Kendrick Keeps It Simple, SZA Keeps It Stunning
There’s something to be said about how Kendrick’s simplicity in styling (plain white tee, dark pants, subtle movement) makes him fade into the space, while SZA stands out in full femme form. Long acrylic nails, heavy bangs, bold silhouettes—she’s a walking statement, and the contrast between the two is striking.
They’re giving two different energies, but the synergy is still there. That’s the magic.
The Luther Sample + That Final Scene? Whew.
The cherry on top? That beautiful sample from Luther Vandross’ “If This World Were Mine” at the end of the video. It doesn’t just close out the song—it grounds it. It adds context, history, and soul. It’s like Kendrick and SZA are showing us how love looks today, while Luther reminds us what it’s always sounded like.
This Is How You Do Visual Storytelling
The whole thing is stripped back in a way that forces you to sit in it. No flashy transitions. No quick cuts. Just vibes, movement, and tension. The pace is slow, but deliberate. It asks you to lean in.
If this is any sign of what’s coming on their Grand National Tour, we’re in for something special special.
Have you watched it yet? Go run it up and tell us your thoughts over on socials.
