Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “Luther” spends 12th week at number one in US
Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “Luther” earns 12th week at number one in US
In a year already stacked with major milestones for hip-hop and R&B, Kendrick Lamar and SZA have carved out a historic lane of their own. Their collaborative single “Luther” has just notched its 12th consecutive week atop the Billboard Hot 100, making it one of the longest-running No. 1 hits in recent memory.
The track originally appeared on Kendrick Lamar’s critically acclaimed “GNX” album, released in November 2024. That project itself debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, and “Luther” quickly emerged as the breakout hit—thanks to its emotional depth, sonic innovation, and powerful performances by two of music’s most dynamic artists.
With both Kendrick and SZA on top of their game—and currently traveling the world on their Grand National Tour—fans are witnessing what may be a cultural and commercial peak for the duo.
From Top Dawg to Global Stars
Though Kendrick Lamar and SZA are now headlining global arenas and topping global charts, their musical chemistry has roots that go back more than a decade. Both artists were once labelmates on Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE), the powerhouse West Coast collective that helped elevate each of them into superstardom.
Even though Kendrick left TDE in 2022 to launch his pgLang imprint, and SZA continues to release music under TDE, their creative synergy has never faltered.
What Makes “Luther” So Special?
“Luther” blends Kendrick’s razor-sharp lyricism with SZA’s genre-bending vocals, backed by a haunting, gospel-tinged instrumental. The song touches on themes of transformation, loss, and spiritual rebirth—while remaining accessible enough for mainstream listeners.
Critics have praised the track’s layered production and emotional weight. Fans on social media have called it “a modern-day classic”, and streams have reflected that sentiment. The track has earned over 400 million Spotify plays in under three months and continues to dominate radio airwaves.
The single’s longevity is especially rare in today’s fast-paced streaming era, where most songs enjoy only a few weeks of peak popularity. “Luther” is defying that trend.
Touring Together: The Grand National Tour
Kendrick and SZA are taking their joint success on the road with the Grand National Tour, a global event that’s captivating audiences across the U.S. and soon, Europe. Their next stop? Foxborough, Massachusetts, on May 12, where a sold-out Gillette Stadium awaits.
The tour marks the first time Kendrick and SZA have co-headlined a global trek. It’s a celebration not only of their individual achievements but of their collaborative magic. Fans are treated to live renditions of all three recent joint releases: “Luther,” “Gloria,” and “30 For 30.”
The summer leg of the tour kicks off in Cologne, Germany, on July 2, and spans major cities like London, Paris, and Amsterdam. Each show blends Kendrick’s theatrical stage presence with SZA’s soulful, genre-defying sound. The result? A transcendent live experience that critics are calling one of the best tours of 2025.
More Collabs: “Gloria” and “30 For 30”
“Luther” isn’t the only gem that Kendrick and SZA have delivered together recently. They’ve dropped three collaborative songs since fall 2024:
- “Luther” – From Kendrick’s GNX album
- “Gloria” – Also from GNX, a more introspective track that pairs storytelling with ethereal melodies
- “30 For 30” – A standout from SZA’s SOS Deluxe: Lana edition, showcasing lyrical vulnerability and growth
Each track brings something unique to the table, but all three share a sense of maturity and evolution that reflects where both artists are in their careers.
Fans have speculated that a joint EP or full album could be on the horizon, especially considering the frequency and success of these collaborations. Neither artist has confirmed this, but the demand is undeniable.
SZA’s Rise Since “SOS”
SZA’s growth since releasing her sophomore album, “SOS”, in 2022 has been nothing short of extraordinary. The album won three Grammys and spawned multiple chart-topping singles, including “Kill Bill” and “Snooze.” It also set streaming records and became one of the longest-charting female R&B albums of the decade.
Her SOS Deluxe: Lana edition added new layers to an already powerful project. The addition of Kendrick on “30 For 30” brought an extra dose of introspection, pairing SZA’s melodic confessions with Kendrick’s poetic musings.
SZA’s artistic versatility and genre fusion—from R&B to pop to alt-rock—continue to keep fans and critics guessing. And her chemistry with Kendrick only elevates that.
Kendrick’s “GNX” Era and Cultural Influence
Kendrick’s “GNX” album marked his return to the spotlight after 2022’s Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers. Critics called GNX a “spiritual sequel” that refined his voice while tackling issues of legacy, faith, and cultural identity. The album debuted at No. 1 and earned him multiple award nominations across platforms.
“Luther” and “Gloria” stand out not only for their production but also for how Kendrick uses them to reflect on his place in the culture. With his pgLang collective growing in influence, Kendrick’s reach now extends beyond music into fashion, film, and social activism.
The GNX era has also proven that Kendrick can still dominate both charts and conversations without losing the lyrical integrity that made him famous.
Legacy in the Making
“Luther” spending 12 straight weeks at No. 1 isn’t just a personal win for Kendrick and SZA—it’s a statement about the power of meaningful music in a streaming age.
In a landscape where virality often outshines substance, their collaboration shows that lyrical depth and commercial appeal can still go hand in hand. They’ve maintained their authenticity while evolving musically, and the world has responded.
As they continue their tour and potentially drop more music together, Kendrick and SZA are proving that longevity in music comes from real connection—both between artists and with their audience.
What’s Next?
- More Tour Dates: Expect additional legs or special guests announced as the Grand National Tour rolls on.
- Award Season Dominance: “Luther” is a strong contender for Record of the Year, Best Collaboration, and more at upcoming Grammys.
- New Projects?: Rumors of a joint EP or live album are swirling. Whether or not it happens, fans remain hopeful.
Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s partnership has reached new heights in 2025, but it’s likely far from over. “Luther” is more than a hit—it’s a cultural moment. With unmatched chemistry, a sold-out tour, and multiple hits under their belt, they’ve become the gold standard for modern musical collaboration.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering their work, now is the perfect time to catch the wave—and see history unfold in real time.