Kendrick Lamar earns Favorite Hip-Hop Song win at AMAs for “Not Like Us”
Kendrick Lamar wins Favorite Hip-Hop Song at AMAs
Kendrick Lamar continues his chart-topping dominance in 2025, adding yet another accolade to an already groundbreaking year. His viral and culturally seismic single, “Not Like Us,” has just won Favorite Hip-Hop Song at the American Music Awards, continuing its historic run that began the moment it dropped.
From Grammy sweeps to sold-out stadium tours, Lamar isn’t just releasing hits — he’s curating cultural moments. Here’s a closer look at how “Not Like Us” exploded into a movement, why fans are calling it one of the greatest diss tracks ever, and what’s next for Kendrick and the Grand National Tour.
“Not Like Us”: More Than Just a Diss Track
When Kendrick Lamar dropped “Not Like Us” in May 2024, it wasn’t just another single — it was a declaration. Directed at longtime rival Drake, the song made waves across social media, with bars dissected by fans and critics alike. The song’s aggressive tone, clever wordplay, and unapologetic West Coast vibe connected immediately with listeners who had long anticipated a lyrical showdown.
Within hours, “Not Like Us” had gone viral. It didn’t just dominate Twitter (now X), Instagram, and TikTok; it redefined what a modern diss track could do in the streaming age. The single debuted at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Kendrick’s most commercially successful debut yet.
Even more significantly, it sparked debates about authenticity, artistry, and legacy in hip-hop. Fans praised Kendrick for staying true to his lyrical roots while still adapting to modern sonic trends.
Clean Sweep at the 2025 Grammys
The cultural impact of “Not Like Us” was validated at the 2025 Grammy Awards, where it won in every category it was nominated for:
- Record of the Year
- Song of the Year
- Best Rap Performance
- Best Rap Song
- Best Music Video
The wins marked a rare Grammy sweep, joining the ranks of only a few other tracks in history. Kendrick’s performance at the ceremony — which included a stripped-down version of the song with live instrumentation — reminded the world why he remains one of music’s most dynamic and respected artists.
This kind of universal acclaim, both from fans and institutions, is rare. And it only added fuel to the song’s momentum heading into spring.
American Music Awards: A Fan-Driven Victory
Unlike the Grammys, the American Music Awards are fan-voted, making Kendrick’s win for Favorite Hip-Hop Song even more meaningful. The 2025 AMAs, held in Las Vegas, highlighted just how deep the fan love runs for Kendrick.
Though he wasn’t in attendance, the moment spoke volumes. “Not Like Us” has become an anthem for fans who value artistry, honesty, and lyrical precision. The AMA win is also a reminder that the track didn’t just dominate headlines — it dominated hearts.
Grand National Tour: A Victory Lap Across Continents
To follow up a hit like “Not Like Us,” Kendrick did something few rappers at his level attempt: he launched a stadium tour — and not just across the U.S., but internationally.
The Grand National Tour, co-headlined by SZA, kicked off in mid-April 2025. It’s Kendrick’s largest and most ambitious tour yet, featuring over 30 shows across North America, Europe, and the UK.
The tour supports Kendrick’s latest album, “GNX,” as well as SZA’s extended release, “SOS Deluxe: Lana.” With a mix of new hits and old favorites like “Alright,” “HUMBLE.,” and “DNA,” Kendrick is using this tour to showcase his full artistic evolution.
Notable Highlights:
- A surprise appearance from Baby Keem in Los Angeles
- Viral dance performances during “Not Like Us” in Paris
- Custom visuals featuring South Central LA culture
- Shows in cities like London, Berlin, Amsterdam, Lisbon, and Rome
Kendrick and SZA have created a show that blends art, music, and storytelling — and the result is one of the most critically acclaimed tours of the year.
Kendrick Lamar’s Staying Power in Hip-Hop
Why does Kendrick’s music connect the way it does? There’s no single answer, but several key traits define his success:
- Authenticity: Kendrick never chases trends. His music is always rooted in real emotion and experience.
- Versatility: He moves between jazz-infused rap, trap, conscious hip-hop, and mainstream anthems without losing integrity.
- Lyrical Mastery: Whether he’s addressing personal pain or political issues, every bar carries weight.
- Visual Impact: Kendrick’s music videos and live shows are cinematic, layered, and intentional — always pushing boundaries.
In an industry where many artists burn out quickly, Kendrick’s ability to evolve without compromise is part of what makes him a generational talent.
The Power of Musical Storytelling
Kendrick Lamar’s dominance in 2025 is not just about awards or tours. It’s about how he uses music to tell stories — stories about the Black experience, identity, fame, loyalty, and self-worth.
“Not Like Us” is a moment in time, yes. But it’s also a case study in how a song can spark dialogue, challenge norms, and inspire millions. For aspiring musicians and fans alike, Kendrick’s journey proves that authenticity and excellence are still rewarded, even in an era driven by algorithms.
Where to Listen and Watch
To experience Kendrick Lamar’s latest chapter:
- Stream “Not Like Us” on Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, and YouTube
- Watch the Grammy performance on official award show channels
- Buy tickets for the Grand National Tour on Kendrick’s official website
- Follow on social media for behind-the-scenes tour content and new merch drops
As of mid-2025, Kendrick Lamar sits atop the hip-hop world. With “Not Like Us” continuing to break records, a Grammy sweep in his pocket, and a global stadium tour in full swing, he has shown that greatness isn’t just about talent — it’s about vision, discipline, and storytelling.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering his work, one thing is clear: Kendrick Lamar is not like the rest.