SZA’s “SOS” album aiming for 13th total week at number one in US

SZA’s “SOS” aiming for 13th week at number one on BIllboard 200

When SZA and Kendrick Lamar launched their Grand National World Tour last weekend, the energy was electric. The opening night, hosted in a sold-out U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, wasn’t just a concert — it was a cultural moment. And now, with the tour just kicking off, both artists are seeing the ripple effects on the charts.

The Power of a Tour: SOS Rebounds

SZA’s 2022 critically acclaimed album SOS is on the verge of reclaiming the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200. Fueled by her tour’s momentum and the recent drop of an expanded deluxe edition, Lana, SOS is now locked in a close race with four other albums — including Kendrick Lamar’s own GNX. Only 2,600 units separate the contenders, but projections show SZA leading the pack with over 50,000 additional units sold this week.

If SOS lands at No. 1 again, it will mark the 13th week the album has held the top position — a rare feat for any artist, especially in today’s hyper-competitive streaming environment.

The “Lana” Effect: New Tracks, New Buzz

Released in December 2024, Lana added fresh fuel to the SOS fire. The deluxe edition introduced fans to tracks that didn’t make the original cut, like “30 For 30,” a moody, lyrical deep-dive featuring Kendrick Lamar. The track has already become a fan favorite, streaming into millions of playlists and sparking discussions across social media.

By revisiting SOS with Lana, SZA did more than pad her catalog. She created a new touchpoint for listeners to reconnect with the themes of heartbreak, growth, and self-discovery that defined the original album. The smart timing of its release — just before her Super Bowl Halftime Show performance with Kendrick in February — has helped keep the spotlight firmly on her.

“Luther”: A Chart-Topper With Staying Power

One of the biggest catalysts behind this momentum is “Luther,” one of three collaborations between SZA and Kendrick that dropped in fall 2024. Now in its ninth consecutive week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, the song has become a defining anthem of the year.

“Luther” blends soulful melodies with introspective verses, striking a chord with both longtime fans and new listeners. The song’s extended reign is no accident — it’s the result of two of hip-hop and R&B’s most influential voices merging at the height of their powers.

Kendrick’s “GNX”: Competing at the Top

While SZA is surging, Kendrick Lamar’s GNX is also making waves. The album, released in late 2024, debuted at No. 1 with 319,000 equivalent units sold. It’s an experimental, politically charged project that dives deep into themes of identity, legacy, and resistance. Kendrick’s lyrical agility is on full display, and tracks like “Westward” and “GNX Radio” have become standouts.

GNX remains a top contender on the Billboard 200 and is one of the four albums neck-and-neck with SOS. The friendly rivalry between the two artists — both on tour together and battling for chart dominance — adds an exciting layer to this moment in music.

Super Bowl Show Sparks Streaming Surge

Their joint performance at the February 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show gave fans a preview of what they could expect from the Grand National World Tour. The setlist was tight, the visuals dazzling, and the chemistry undeniable. It also had a measurable impact: streams for both SOS and GNX jumped double digits in the week following the show.

This performance wasn’t just hype. It was a masterclass in brand synergy and strategic timing. In an era where artists must constantly create moments to stay relevant, SZA and Kendrick proved they know how to command attention — and convert it into numbers.

Why SZA and Kendrick Are Winning

Even outside of this current wave, both SZA and Kendrick have built careers on substance. They aren’t chasing trends — they’re setting them. SZA’s ability to articulate vulnerability with poetic nuance has carved out a distinct space in modern R&B. Kendrick’s storytelling, infused with political and social commentary, continues to elevate hip-hop as a genre of thought leadership.

Their decision to tour together isn’t just about commercial gain. It’s a celebration of artistry, mutual respect, and a shared vision for what music can be: impactful, introspective, and unafraid to push boundaries.

Tour Momentum Builds

The Grand National World Tour will continue across North America with major stops in Houston, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia. Early reviews from critics and fans praise the set design, live band integration, and surprise on-stage collaborations. The tour is expected to be one of the highest-grossing of the year.

Fans are not only showing up in person but also engaging heavily online. Hashtags like #GrandNationalTour and #SZAxKendrick are trending regularly, with concert clips and reaction videos flooding TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.

Chart Race Takeaways

Here’s why this chart battle matters:

• It shows the growing impact of collaborative marketing in music.

• It proves that deluxe albums, when executed well, can extend the life of a project.

• It underscores the staying power of both artists, years into their careers.

• It demonstrates how live performances still drive meaningful engagement.

SZA and Kendrick Lamar are more than artists — they’re cultural curators. As the Grand National World Tour unfolds and the charts shift in real time, one thing is certain: 2025 belongs to them.

Whether you’re attending a show, revisiting SOS, diving into GNX, or blasting “Luther” on repeat, there’s something for every listener in this moment. And the best part? It’s only just begun.