Kendrick Lamar & SZA’s “Luther” Hits 9 Weeks at No. 1
Kendrick Lamar and SZA are dominating 2025, and the momentum doesn’t appear to be slowing down. Their collaborative single “Luther” has now reached nine total weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying its place as one of the biggest songs of the year—and a defining moment in both artists’ careers.
Originally released in November 2024 as part of Kendrick Lamar’s Billboard 200-topping GNX album, “Luther” started off strong and only gained traction heading into the new year. Now, nearly halfway through 2025, it continues to command airwaves, streaming platforms, and stadium singalongs.
A Modern Classic with Timeless Impact
“Luther” isn’t just a chart hit—it’s a cultural moment. The song captures everything that makes Kendrick Lamar and SZA such vital voices in music today. Kendrick’s precise, poignant verses blend seamlessly with SZA’s lush vocals, delivering a message that’s both personal and universal.
The track’s instrumentation—a dreamy, nostalgic blend of R&B, soul, and modern hip-hop—pays homage to the late Luther Vandross, while creating something entirely new. The lyrics speak to healing, vulnerability, and the power of love, all themes that both artists have explored deeply in their solo work.
Since its release, “Luther” has become a viral favorite on TikTok, the subject of thousands of fan covers, and an anthem during their live shows—especially now that their Grand National World Tour is underway.
The GNX Album: Kendrick’s Artistic Rebirth
The success of “Luther” is part of a larger story—Kendrick’s triumphant return with his GNX album. Released in November 2024, GNX marked Kendrick’s first full-length studio album since 2022’s Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers. It also marked a sonic and thematic evolution.
Described as bold, avant-garde, and emotionally raw, GNX features a range of collaborators, but the standout moments have come from his work with SZA. In addition to “Luther,” she’s also featured on the haunting and poetic track “Gloria.”
GNX debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and has remained a staple on streaming platforms. Critics praised its introspective themes, Kendrick’s unmatched lyricism, and the balance of experimental production with grounded storytelling.
SZA Shines on “SOS Deluxe: Lana”
Just weeks after GNX dropped, SZA released the deluxe edition of her blockbuster album SOS, titled SOS Deluxe: Lana. The deluxe added several new tracks, including the Kendrick-assisted “30 for 30,” a fan-favorite that explores time, growth, and missed connections.
Much like “Luther,” “30 for 30” showed off the rare chemistry between SZA and Kendrick—two artists who not only understand each other musically but also complement each other thematically. Their collaborations never feel forced—they feel like conversations, stitched together in sound.
The Grand National World Tour Is in Full Swing
Riding high on the success of their music, Kendrick and SZA launched their massive Grand National World Tour last weekend in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with a sold-out show at U.S. Bank Stadium.
The show was a near 3-hour journey through both artists’ iconic discographies, filled with emotional highs, cathartic moments, and world-class production. “Luther” was one of the highlights of the night, drawing a stadium-wide singalong that fans described as spine-tingling.
The next stop is set for April 23 in Houston, Texas, Kendrick’s second home, where fans can expect even more surprises and hometown energy.
This 39-date global tour, presented by Live Nation, pgLang, and Top Dawg Entertainment, will continue throughout North America before heading to Europe and the UK this summer. The tour is already being called one of the biggest live music events of the decade.
The Power of Collaboration: Why Kendrick and SZA Work So Well
Kendrick Lamar and SZA aren’t strangers to collaboration. Their musical synergy first caught fire in 2018 with their Oscar-nominated duet “All the Stars” from the Black Panther soundtrack.
Since then, their joint efforts have only gotten stronger. Whether it’s the moody introspection of “Gloria,” the radio-friendly soul of “Luther,” or the reflective vibe of “30 for 30,” every collaboration feels like a chapter in an ongoing dialogue.
Their partnership thrives on mutual respect, creative freedom, and a shared vision. Kendrick brings sharp analysis and layered storytelling, while SZA provides emotional nuance and stunning vocal dynamics. Together, they bridge hip-hop and R&B, poetry and melody, grit and grace.
Chart Milestones & Industry Impact
With “Luther” now entering its ninth week at No. 1, it becomes Kendrick Lamar’s longest-running No. 1 hit and one of the top-charting singles of 2025. For SZA, it continues her streak of Billboard dominance, following hits like “Kill Bill,” “Snooze,” and “Good Days.”
The song has also earned:
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Over 400 million global streams
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Certification eligibility for Platinum status in the U.S.
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A growing number of radio adds in both urban and adult contemporary formats
“Luther” is more than a hit—it’s a reminder that quality artistry can still top charts, even in an era dominated by virality and short-term attention spans.
Why “Luther” Resonates
There’s a reason “Luther” continues to resonate across demographics and platforms. It taps into timeless themes of love, loss, hope, and self-discovery. It’s emotional without being overly sentimental, introspective without being inaccessible.
It also stands as a counterpoint to the high-energy rap and turn-up R&B that often dominates the charts. “Luther” invites listeners to slow down, reflect, and feel. In doing so, it offers something we don’t get enough of in mainstream music: depth.
For younger fans, it’s a song that hits on a heart level. For older listeners, it echoes the soulful storytelling of artists like Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, and yes—Luther Vandross. That multigenerational appeal gives the song legs far beyond its release window.
What’s Next for Kendrick and SZA?
As the Grand National Tour continues, fans can expect more collaborative moments, possible surprise guests, and maybe even new music. With Kendrick known for dropping material unannounced, and SZA constantly teasing unreleased tracks during performances, anything is possible.
Award season buzz is already starting to build for “Luther,” which could be a Grammy frontrunner in 2026. It’s not just a hit—it’s the kind of song that defines eras.
A Duo Redefining the Culture
At a time when many artists chase trends, Kendrick Lamar and SZA are setting them.
With “Luther” reigning supreme, GNX and SOS Deluxe topping playlists, and a sold-out world tour captivating fans across continents, it’s clear: Kendrick and SZA aren’t just participating in music—they’re reshaping it.
From viral hits to soul-stirring performances, they continue to remind us why art matters, why collaboration matters, and why Black artists at the height of their powers can change the game—again and again.
