Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” is most streamed global song on Apple Music in 2024

In 2024, Kendrick Lamar is on a historic run that is cementing his place as one of the most influential and innovative artists of the decade. From his fiery diss track “Not Like Us” to the explosive success of his GNX album, Kendrick’s impact on music is undeniable. This year alone, he’s claimed Billboard Hot 100 and Apple Music streaming records, earned multiple Grammy nominations, and is now preparing for a massive stadium tour with SZA.

“Not Like Us” Soars to the Top of the Charts

Furthermore, Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” single isn’t just a song—it’s a cultural moment. The track, known for its sharp and scathing lines aimed at fellow rapper Drake, quickly became one of the most talked-about releases of the year. The song dominated the Billboard Hot 100, marking Lamar’s first solo number one hit in years.

Therefore, “Not Like Us” is a powerful statement, blending Kendrick’s signature storytelling with bold lyricism. It didn’t just top the charts—it set a new standard for what a diss track could achieve in today’s rap landscape. With its electrifying production, compelling message, and undeniable catchiness, the song resonated with listeners worldwide, helping Kendrick further solidify his place at the top of the rap game.

The song’s cultural relevance has been amplified by its presence at major events, from sports games to fashion shows, making it a ubiquitous anthem in the United States. It’s no surprise that “Not Like Us” has also just been named the most streamed song globally on Apple Music for 2024, further underscoring its immense popularity and reach.

Kendrick Lamar’s GNX Album: A Landmark Release

In addition to “Not Like Us”, Kendrick Lamar’s highly anticipated GNX album has been a game-changer for his career. Released a little over a week ago, the album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, a testament to Kendrick’s enduring star power and influence in the music industry.

GNX features a mix of bold experimental sounds and intricate lyricism, with Kendrick once again pushing the boundaries of what hip-hop can be. Tracks like “Squabble Up“, which debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, showcase his ability to combine thought-provoking messages with mainstream appeal. The song’s success further cements Kendrick as a chart-topping artist who can both innovate and stay relevant in a rapidly changing industry.

Grammy Nominations and Recognition

2024 has been an exceptional year for Kendrick Lamar at the Grammy Awards. His solo hit “Not Like Us” earned him five Grammy nominations, including nods for Song of the Year, Best Rap Song, and Best Rap Performance. These nominations highlight Kendrick’s continuous mastery of the craft, combining his technical skill with deep emotional resonance in his lyrics.

Meanwhile, his collaboration with Future on “Like That” has garnered two Grammy nominations, showcasing Kendrick’s versatility as a feature artist. His ability to seamlessly blend into various musical landscapes, from his own solo projects to guest features, has made him one of the most sought-after names in the industry.

Future Collaborations and Staying Relevant

Kendrick Lamar’s ability to stay relevant and continue evolving is partly due to his willingness to collaborate with artists from different genres. His appearance on Future’s “Like That” has been another highlight of 2024. The song, which also topped the Billboard Hot 100, underscores Kendrick’s knack for finding chemistry with a range of artists, while still maintaining his distinct style.

Future, with his trap-heavy sound, and Kendrick, with his cerebral lyricism, make an unlikely pairing, yet their collaboration has proven to be one of the year’s biggest hits. It’s collaborations like these that keep Kendrick at the forefront of the rap world, showing that he can thrive in any musical environment.

SZA and Kendrick Lamar: A Long-Awaited Tour

One of the most exciting developments in Kendrick Lamar’s 2024 is the announcement of his Grand National Tour with SZA. The two artists, who were once labelmates at Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE), have built a unique musical relationship over the years, with numerous collaborations to their name. Now, after Kendrick’s departure from TDE in 2022, fans are finally getting the chance to see them perform together on stage.

The Grand National Tour will kick off in April 2024 and is expected to be one of the most talked-about events of the year. This stadium tour will bring together Kendrick’s rap mastery and SZA’s soulful voice, giving fans an unforgettable live experience. The two artists have worked together on several tracks, including “Luther” and “Gloria” from Kendrick’s GNX album, which are sure to be fan favorites during the tour.

Their chemistry on tracks is undeniable, and it will be fascinating to see how their musical synergy translates to a live performance. The tour marks a full-circle moment for both artists—especially as Kendrick and SZA continue to evolve both as individuals and collaborators.

Kendrick Lamar: A Cultural Icon

Kendrick Lamar has always been more than just a rapper—he’s a cultural icon. Whether it’s his thought-provoking lyricism, his willingness to challenge societal norms, or his ability to connect deeply with his audience, Kendrick continues to redefine what it means to be a modern-day artist. His influence goes beyond just the music; it’s about the messages he shares and the conversations he sparks through his work.

In 2024, Kendrick Lamar’s success has been unmatched. His ability to stay relevant, innovative, and culturally significant while constantly evolving is a testament to his genius. Whether it’s through solo projects, collaborations, or live performances, Kendrick Lamar continues to shape the future of music.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Kendrick Lamar?

As we head into the final months of 2024, it’s clear that Kendrick Lamar isn’t slowing down. His GNX album has already made waves, and his Grammy nominations prove that his influence is as strong as ever. The upcoming Grand National Tour with SZA promises to be a major event in the music world, while his chart-topping hits continue to shape the conversation.

With Kendrick’s ability to continually reinvent himself and push musical boundaries, fans are left wondering what he’ll do next. What’s certain is that Kendrick Lamar will continue to be a driving force in music for years to come.