The instrumental features skittering hi-hats alongside a somber, looping guitar melody, creating a propulsive yet melancholic backdrop for Lil Durk’s reflective lyrics.

He noted that while the beat is sleek and propulsive, there’s a sadness to it, particularly due to the looped guitar melody, which pairs well with Durk’s reflective lyrics.

Will Schube of HipHopDX echoed similar sentiments, noting that Durk "turns things up a notch" by delivering powerful bars over Southside's production.

Both critics agree that "Turn Up a Notch" serves as an effective precursor to Durk’s upcoming album, Love Songs 4 the Streets 3.

[1][5] The accompanying music video for "Turn Up a Notch", directed by Jerry Production, was released on September 25, 2024 and it features Lil Durk reveling in his success.