Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” becomes the longest charting rap song in Billboard Hot 100 history

Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” sets new Billboard Hot 100 record

Kendrick Lamar isn’t just riding a wave in 2025 — he is the wave.

After years of critical acclaim and cultural influence, the Compton-born rapper is enjoying the most commercially dominant year of his career. His song “Not Like Us” isn’t just a hit — it’s now the longest-charting rap song in Billboard Hot 100 history at 53 weeks.

The single debuted at number one in May 2024 and, a year later, still holds a position on the chart at number 22. That kind of staying power is rare. In an era where music trends come and go overnight, Kendrick has done something very few artists can claim: he made a song that stuck. As a result, it also swept all five of its Grammy nominations in February.

But that’s not all. His Grand National Tour with SZA is smashing records and selling out stadiums across North America, while his latest hit “Luther,” featuring SZA, has become a modern-day anthem with a 13-week run at number one on the Hot 100.

“Not Like Us” Sets a New Standard in Rap

Let’s talk about impact.

When “Not Like Us” dropped, it made an immediate statement — both musically and culturally. The track is classic Kendrick: sharp, urgent, full of nuance and layered wordplay. And fans didn’t just stream it; they held onto it.

This longevity isn’t an accident. It reflects several things:

• Deep connection to its message
• Replay value thanks to production and flow
• Cultural relevance tied to broader societal themes

The single has not only topped the Hot Rap Songs chart, but also dominated the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, setting records for the longest-running number one in both categories.

And the streaming numbers are nothing short of incredible. With over 823 million on-demand U.S. audio streams, “Not Like Us” is the second most-streamed song of 2024 — a staggering achievement in a streaming-first world.

Why the Track Resonates

Part of the song’s power is its commentary. Kendrick doesn’t shy away from confronting industry fakes, inflated egos, and societal contradictions. It’s the kind of rap that challenges listeners while entertaining them — a formula that’s been at the core of his appeal since good kid, m.A.A.d city.

There’s also something timeless about its structure. From beat transitions to hook strength, “Not Like Us” is built to last. It invites deep listening while remaining accessible to casual fans. That combination is rare — and it’s why it’s still charting after all this time.

The Grand National Tour

While “Not Like Us” was making history on the charts, Kendrick was making history on stage.

His Grand National Tour with SZA has become the highest-grossing hip-hop tour of all time — and it’s still going.

It launched in Atlanta at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium and has moved through major cities, including Houston, Minneapolis, and New York. Each night has been a spectacle, drawing tens of thousands of fans and grossing record-breaking revenue.

Some standout numbers:

• Minneapolis: $9.1 million from 47,000 fans
• Houston: $9.45 million, the highest single-show gross ever for a rapper
• Upcoming: Three nights at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles

Every show is a nearly three-hour marathon featuring 52 songs, high-end production design, and dazzling visuals. Kendrick and SZA give fans not just a concert, but an experience.

Songs performed include:

• “Not Like Us”
• “Alright”
• “HUMBLE.”
• “Kill Bill”
• “Good Days”
• Their collaborations like “All the Stars” and “Gloria”

“Luther” Dominates the Charts

As if one chart-dominating track wasn’t enough, Kendrick and SZA struck gold again with “Luther.”

Released in early 2025, the single debuted at number three and quickly climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot 100. It has remained there for 13 consecutive weeks, the longest reign at number one for either artist.

This track cements their chemistry as collaborators. Kendrick’s lyrical agility paired with SZA’s haunting, emotive vocals has proven to be a winning formula.

And Kendrick made history again by replacing himself at number one on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart three times in a row — a first in Billboard’s history.

“Luther” captures a more melodic, introspective side of both artists and has earned high replay value with both fans and critics.

Why Kendrick Lamar’s Appeal Is Real

Kendrick Lamar’s secret weapon is authenticity. He’s not interested in chasing trends. He creates music with substance, art that lasts beyond the first listen.

His success in 2025 is the culmination of years of staying grounded in his vision. And while the headlines may focus on his recent dominance, the seeds were planted a long time ago — in projects like To Pimp a Butterfly, DAMN., and Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers.

Evergreen content in Kendrick’s music includes:

• Themes of racial justice
• Mental health awareness
• Personal transformation
• Commentary on fame and society

These are topics that will always matter, which is why Kendrick’s songs age well.

SZA: The Star That Shines

SZA deserves equal credit for this record-breaking run. Her albums have pushed boundaries in R&B, and her live shows demonstrate both vocal mastery and emotional depth.

Her partnership with Kendrick is more than business — it’s musical synergy. Together, they’ve delivered some of the most powerful collaborations of the last decade.

From “All the Stars” (which earned an Oscar nomination) to “Luther,” their duets resonate on a universal level. SZA brings soul, vulnerability, and sonic richness to Kendrick’s cutting-edge lyricism.

Fans Still Have a Chance to Join the Moment

Last-minute tickets are still available, with prices ranging from $201 to $245, depending on location and seating.

If you’ve never seen Kendrick live, this is the show to catch. The tour has been praised for its pacing, performance, and emotional intensity.

Kendrick Lamar Is Setting the Bar

From “Not Like Us” to “Luther” to the sold-out stadiums across North America, Kendrick Lamar is in a league of his own right now.

He’s not just making hits — he’s making history.

And in doing so, he’s leaving a blueprint for what sustainable, meaningful, and evergreen success in hip-hop truly looks like.

If this is just one year in Kendrick’s legacy, the future of hip-hop is in very capable hands.