Kendrick Lamar surpasses 5 billion Spotify streams in 2025

In a historic moment for hip-hop, Kendrick Lamar has officially surpassed 5 billion Spotify streams in 2025, becoming the first rapper this year to achieve that milestone. Known for pushing boundaries and redefining the genre, Kendrick is proving once again why he’s considered one of the greatest to ever pick up a mic.

This achievement isn’t happening in a vacuum. As Kendrick celebrates this streaming triumph, he’s also in the midst of launching the Grand National Tour alongside SZA, his Top Dawg Entertainment labelmate. Their joint tour kicked off with a sold-out show in Minneapolis, Minnesota, setting the stage for a North American run that will later expand into Europe and the UK, starting in Cologne, Germany.

But that’s just the surface of what’s going on in Kendrick’s world right now. Let’s break down why this moment matters—both for fans and for the music industry at large.

Kendrick Lamar’s Streaming Power: A 2025 Milestone

In the streaming age, numbers matter. Not because they define talent, but because they reflect reach, relevance, and resonance. Kendrick Lamar passing 5 billion streams on Spotify in just four months of 2025 is more than just a record—it’s a reflection of his ongoing cultural dominance.

Unlike some artists who see sharp drops after album releases, Kendrick’s catalog continues to grow in streams across new and returning listeners. His discography isn’t just popular—it’s timeless.

This milestone follows Kendrick’s earlier achievement in January 2025, where he was also the first rapper to reach 3 billion Spotify streams for the year. To grow by another 2 billion streams in such a short time highlights how widely his music is being played on a daily basis across the globe.

The Grand National Tour: Kendrick Lamar and SZA Reunite on Stage

The success of Kendrick’s latest project, GNX, combined with SZA’s continued dominance in R&B, laid the perfect foundation for a co-headlining tour. The Grand National Tour, announced earlier this year, is one of the most anticipated live music events of 2025.

Their first show took place on Saturday night in Minneapolis, where the crowd was treated to an electrifying setlist that blended both artists’ latest hits with fan-favorite classics. Concertgoers have described the experience as “a cultural reset” and “unlike any other rap/R&B tour happening this year.”

The North American leg of the tour runs through July 2, with stops in major cities like New York, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Toronto. After that, they head to Europe, where shows in Cologne, London, Paris, and Amsterdam are already selling out fast.

This tour not only brings together two of the most influential artists of the last decade but also showcases a rare kind of onstage chemistry. Both Kendrick and SZA have deep catalogs, and they’ve collaborated enough times to create a seamless musical narrative during their live sets.

“Luther” Dominates the Charts for 8 Straight Weeks

Kendrick and SZA’s 2024 collaboration “Luther” has proven to be more than just a hit—it’s a chart-dominating force. The track, released on Kendrick’s GNX album last November, is currently in its eighth consecutive week at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The song blends Kendrick’s lyrical sharpness with SZA’s ethereal vocals, creating a genre-blending anthem that resonates with both hip-hop heads and R&B lovers. “Luther” explores themes of generational pain, resilience, and Black excellence—something both artists have explored in their own solo work.

It’s also worth noting that this isn’t their only recent collaboration. Just a month after the release of GNX, Kendrick was featured on SZA’s “30 For 30” single from her SOS Deluxe: Lana album, further cementing their creative synergy.

The success of “Luther” is not just a win for Kendrick and SZA, but also for fans who appreciate conscious music that doesn’t compromise on quality or commercial appeal.

Kendrick Lamar’s Evolving Legacy

Kendrick Lamar is more than a rapper—he’s a storyteller, a cultural critic, and a voice for a generation. Each of his albums feels like a time capsule: good kid, m.A.A.d city captured the trials of growing up in Compton; To Pimp a Butterfly took on race, capitalism, and art; DAMN. balanced commercial appeal with depth and introspection.

Now, with GNX, Kendrick is reflecting on legacy, identity, and national consciousness. The album is layered with samples, skits, and hidden messages—elements that have defined his approach from day one.

The beauty of Kendrick’s music is that it rewards both casual listeners and deep divers. You can enjoy his tracks at face value—or you can peel back the layers and find new meaning with each listen.

And in a world where fast content dominates, Kendrick still encourages fans to slow down and think.

Evergreen insight: Kendrick Lamar’s discography is often used in academic settings and cited in discussions about race, politics, and art in modern America. His work is being studied as modern poetry—something very few artists in any genre can claim.

SZA and Kendrick: A Creative Duo That Delivers

What makes the Kendrick x SZA partnership so special? It’s not just the music—it’s the balance.

SZA brings vulnerability, melody, and introspective lyricism. Kendrick adds sharp edges, structure, and dense lyrical content. Together, they complement each other in a way that feels effortless.

Their collaborations stretch back to “All the Stars,” the Grammy-nominated track from the Black Panther soundtrack. Now, with “Luther” and “30 For 30,” they’re proving that lightning can strike more than once—and fans are here for it.

Their chemistry is undeniable, and their willingness to tackle personal and social topics head-on makes every track feel important.

Why This Moment Matters for Hip-Hop

Kendrick’s 2025 dominance isn’t just a win for one artist—it’s a powerful moment for the entire genre.

Hip-hop has always been about evolution. From block parties to billion-dollar tours, the genre continues to grow and shift with the times. Artists like Kendrick Lamar are helping it grow in depth, artistry, and mainstream respect.

Streaming numbers are one part of that story, but cultural impact is another. Kendrick’s ability to maintain both commercial success and creative integrity sets a new bar—especially in a time when many artists feel pressure to release quick-hit singles to stay relevant.

Kendrick Lamar has once again proven that thoughtful, intentional music can dominate the charts, fill stadiums, and rack up billions of streams. His record-breaking start to 2025, anchored by the 5 billion Spotify streams milestone, his Grand National Tour with SZA, and the continued success of “Luther”, is more than just impressive—it’s inspiring.

In a music landscape where trends change daily, Kendrick Lamar remains consistent in delivering meaningful art. And as GNX continues to climb and the tour hits more cities, one thing is clear:

This isn’t just Kendrick’s year—it’s another chapter in his ever-growing legacy.