Not a newcomer, but re-entering the thresholds of the music industry, Kendrick Lamar, has once again shoveled up the charts. Recent months have seen Lamar’s work raking up quite the conversation, sparking discussions for its artistic depth spun with commercial impact. And just as anyone would have seen coming, the day a certain track was released, loyalists and critics have been buzzing about a recent new milestone that the rapper has single-handedly conquered. The events were barely a surprise, however, with Lamar’s history being an independent cultural phenomenon by himself. 

Like a mantra being chanted, Lamar’s presence is once again taking over his rightful positions across every chart that exists.  

Kendrick Lamar, definitely Not Like Them

In a stunning turn of events, Kendrick Lamar’s hit ‘Not Like Us’ has officially broken the long-standing record set by Lil Nas X’s ‘Old Town Road’ in 2019. Previously, ‘Old Town Road’ held the top spot on Billboard’s Hot Rap Songs chart for 20 weeks. Lamar’s track, a scathing diss aimed at Drake, has now surpassed that mark, entering its 21st week at number one and cementing its place in chart history. While Lamar has broken several other records as of late, the longevity of ‘Not Like Us’ on the charts (53 weeks) has surpassed Lamar’s own record that he had held previously with his track ‘Love’, which had been 40 weeks at a stretch.

The significance of this record cannot be overstated. ‘Old Town Road’ was a cultural phenomenon, blending genres and breaking barriers, yet Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’ demonstrates that lyrical prowess and social commentary can still command mass attention. The diss track’s long life on the charts speaks volumes of its resonance with audiences and its ability to spark conversation. It is rare for a song born from controversy to achieve such sustained popularity, making Lamar’s feat all the more remarkable.

As if it is never enough to simply have the most played song in history, it is certainly not going to be enough to be called the best. But what about the Best of the Bests? 

The cliff of the Rap World: Kendrick Lamar

While breaking Lil Nas X’s records might have been one of the easiest feats that Kendrick Lamar may have had to perform, it was a lifetime of work that had gotten him crowned as the “Best Rapper Alive” for 2024 by Complex Magazine. His sharp lyrical skills, high-profile rivalry with Drake, and chart-topping hits like ‘GNX’ have set him apart from his peers. Lamar’s influence extends beyond music, earning praise from figures like former President Obama. While artists such as Tyler the Creator and Future made significant contributions in 2024, none matched Lamar’s impact. With multiple Grammy nominations and a Super Bowl Halftime Show ahead, Lamar’s reign remains undisputed.

Latest accomplishments signal a new chapter in hip-hop history. By breaking records set by global hits like ‘Old Town Road’, Lamar proves that authenticity and artistry still reign supreme. His music and performances resonate deeply, offering both entertainment and thoughtful commentary. As Lamar continues to innovate and inspire, his legacy as one of the most influential artists of his generation is secure.

What do you think of this recent upheaval of the music industry that Kendrick Lamar delights with? Let us know in the comments below!