Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “Luther” reaches 13th week at number one in the US
Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “Luther” hits 13th week at No. 1 in US
In a music industry where trends shift weekly and artists fight for longevity, a 13-week reign on the Billboard Hot 100 is no small feat. Yet, that’s exactly what Kendrick Lamar and SZA have just achieved with their powerful single “Luther.” More than just a chart-topper, the song has sparked conversations around collaboration, artistry, and the state of hip-hop and R&B.
“Luther” is not just a hit—it’s a cultural milestone. With both artists already enjoying strong individual success, this track represents a convergence of lyrical depth, sonic innovation, and fan anticipation. The single dropped with Kendrick’s November 2024 album “GNX,” and has since become a defining anthem of this musical era.
The Rise of “Luther”: Why It Resonates
When “Luther” first appeared on GNX, fans instantly knew it was special. It blended Kendrick Lamar’s sharp, socially aware lyricism with SZA’s rich, emotive vocals. The production stood out—lush yet minimal, with a haunting string sample that anchored the track in both nostalgia and modernity.
From its release, it saw viral success on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Fans dissected the lyrics, created choreography, and made memes, further boosting its visibility.
But virality alone doesn’t sustain a 13-week reign. “Luther” resonates because it taps into timeless themes—struggle, resilience, identity—and packages them in a format that’s both sonically rich and emotionally compelling.
How “Luther” is Changing the Chart Game
It’s rare for a song to stay at No. 1 for this long without a gimmick or controversial rollout. “Luther” has done it through sheer quality, critical acclaim, and fan loyalty. Its rise is part of a larger trend in the music industry: the return of substantive songwriting and genre fusion.
What makes this achievement even more impressive is that “Luther” is Lamar and SZA’s third collaboration in under a year, alongside:
- “Gloria” (also from GNX)
- “30 for 30” (from SZA’s SOS Deluxe: Lana)
These tracks show consistent artistic chemistry and thematic depth, helping to sustain interest in both artists’ projects.
GNX: Kendrick Lamar’s Vision Reimagined
Released in November 2024, Kendrick’s GNX marked a sonic evolution for the Compton rapper. Known for concept albums like GKMC To Pimp a Butterfly and DAMN., Kendrick once again redefined boundaries with GNX, a project that mixes spoken word, trap, soul, and experimental beats.
“Luther” is a standout not only commercially but artistically. Its placement on the album bridges the emotional terrain between introspection and cultural commentary, two of Kendrick’s strongest lyrical tools.
The album debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200, further reinforcing Kendrick’s reputation as a true album artist in a single-driven era.
The Grand National Tour: Uniting Generations of Fans
To capitalize on their momentum, Kendrick and SZA launched the Grand National Tour—a co-headlining spectacle of music, visuals, and cultural unity. Kicking off in April 2025, the tour has hit major cities across North America and is already being called one of the most successful joint tours in recent memory.
Fans have praised the 52-song setlist, which features solo and collaborative performances, including:
- “Luther”
- “Gloria”
- “Love Galore”
- “DNA.”
- “Kill Bill”
The North American leg wraps up on June 18 in Washington, D.C. Then, they head overseas, with the European/UK dates beginning July 2 in Cologne, Germany.
The tour showcases more than just musical talent—it highlights storytelling, shared vulnerability, and community-building through art. Fans of all ages, races, and backgrounds have packed arenas, proving the duo’s broad appeal.
SZA’s Evolution: From “Ctrl” to Global Icon
While Kendrick’s impact on hip-hop is well established, SZA’s journey to superstardom is just as compelling. Her 2022 album SOS broke streaming records and redefined R&B for a new generation. The SOS Deluxe: Lana edition, released in late 2024, introduced fans to deeper tracks, including “30 for 30” featuring Kendrick.
This wasn’t just a bonus track—it was a statement. It showed her lyrical growth, willingness to experiment, and ability to hold her own alongside one of the greatest rappers of all time.
SZA’s influence now extends beyond R&B. She’s a fashion muse, a voice for mental health awareness, and a symbol of empowerment for women navigating the complexities of fame and femininity.
Lessons for Emerging Artists
What can up-and-coming musicians learn from the success of Kendrick and SZA?
- Authenticity matters. Both artists write from personal experience and never chase trends.
- Collaboration is powerful. Teaming up can amplify strengths and broaden audiences.
- Albums still matter. While singles dominate, full projects like GNX and SOS prove there’s still a place for cohesive storytelling.
Understanding your audience, staying consistent with your brand, and taking creative risks can lead to both critical and commercial acclaim.
What’s Next for Kendrick and SZA?
After wrapping up their tour, fans are wondering: what’s next? Could there be a joint EP or full-length collaborative album in the works? While nothing is confirmed, industry insiders speculate that this creative partnership is far from over.
Kendrick has hinted at more music to come in 2025, and SZA has teased visual projects and even film collaborations. If “Luther” is a preview of what’s possible, then the future looks incredibly bright.
Why This Moment Matters
In a fast-moving digital world, longevity is rare. But Kendrick Lamar and SZA have proven that talent, authenticity, and connection can transcend algorithms.
“Luther” isn’t just a chart-topping hit. It’s a reminder of what’s possible when artists stay true to themselves while pushing creative boundaries. It’s about the moments in music that make you feel seen, understood, and energized.
As “Luther” continues to rule the Billboard Hot 100, one thing is clear: we are witnessing history.