Kendrick Lamar Reigns Supreme on Billboard Hot 100: A Historic Double Achievement

29 May 2025

Theo Wargo/WireImage

Kendrick Lamar has once again redefined the benchmark for success in hip-hop. In a groundbreaking moment for the genre and the broader music world, the Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper has become the most successful rapper on the Billboard Hot 100 chart twice, cementing his place not just as a lyrical master, but as a cultural titan.

His dominance is highlighted by the monumental success of “Luther,” a collaboration with SZA that soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and held that top position for 13 consecutive weeks. The track, which blends soulful vocals with Kendrick's razor-sharp lyricism, struck a cultural chord that transcended genres. It became an anthem of 2025 and marked the longest-running No. 1 hit for both artists, setting a new standard for rap collaborations.

But that wasn’t the only chart-scorching triumph. Lamar's solo single, “Not Like Us,” also made a thunderous impact. It debuted at No. 1 and unlike most singles that slowly faded returned to the top spot multiple times. This rare feat signals a deep and sustained connection with listeners, as well as an unparalleled replay value. Whether streamed, played in clubs, or quoted across social media, “Not Like Us” is more than a hit, it's a movement.

These songs are just two highlights from his highly acclaimed 2025 album GNX, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. All 12 tracks from the album charted simultaneously on the Billboard Hot 100, an accomplishment only a handful of artists like Drake, Taylor Swift, and The Beatles have ever achieved. Lamar’s entries weren’t filler either; nearly every track cracked the Top 50, some even landing in the Top 10, demonstrating his deep connection with listeners across generations.

Outside the studio, Kendrick's star power was on full display at the Super Bowl LIX halftime show, where he delivered a blistering performance that fused artistic storytelling with visual flair. The halftime show sparked a viral resurgence of his discography most notably “Not Like Us,” which surged back to No. 1 following the event. The moment also reflected Lamar’s unique ability to blend social commentary with mass appeal, reaching both mainstream and underground audiences with equal intensity.

In addition to dominating the charts, Kendrick also swept major accolades. He took home multiple Grammy Awards in 2025, including Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Rap Performance for “Not Like Us.” Critics praised his lyrical sharpness and the bold risks taken on GNX, with many calling it a defining moment in 21st-century hip-hop.

What sets Kendrick Lamar apart is his ability to balance commercial success with conscious, thought-provoking artistry. He doesn't just release music; he curates experiences. His albums are dissected in classrooms, quoted in think-pieces, and used as soundtracks for both protest and celebration.

As the year unfolds, industry insiders and fans alike wonder what's next for Lamar. Will he tour globally? Launch new collaborations? Or perhaps enter yet another medium? Regardless of what lies ahead, Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 run has firmly positioned him as one of the greatest and most impactful rappers of all time not just in his era, but in hip-hop history.