Kendrick Lamar recently made headlines at the 2025 Grammy Awards, where his groundbreaking track “Not Like Us” took home five impressive awards, including coveted titles like Song of the Year and Record of the Year. This remarkable achievement not only highlights the song’s popularity but also its sharp commentary directed at fellow rapper Drake, setting the stage for an intriguing rivalry in the hip-hop world.
Kendrick’s Impressive Grammy Sweep
During the Grammy ceremony held on February 2, 2025, Lamar celebrated his musician prowess by winning a total of five awards. These included categories such as Best Music Video and Best Rap Performance for his hit song “Not Like Us.” This song was released on May 4, 2024, and it became a massive hit, earning 96 million streams within its first week! It didn’t stop there; the song managed to surpass one billion streams on Spotify in just three short months, and it even debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- Kendrick won five Grammy Awards in total.
- His song “Not Like Us” has become a cultural phenomenon.
- The song’s lyrics take aim at Drake, igniting the ongoing rivalry.
- In his speech, Lamar celebrated his West Coast roots, highlighting Compton.
The Message Behind ‘Not Like Us’
The song “Not Like Us” is not just a chart-topping hit; it also holds a more potent message directed toward Drake. The lyrics tackle issues regarding Drake’s character and reputation within the industry. Lamar’s words resonate deeply with listeners, marking his stance in hip-hop as someone who isn’t afraid to speak the truth, no matter the subject. His impressive wins at the Grammys signal a significant moment in hip-hop history.
A Show of Gratitude and Community
In his acceptance speeches, Kendrick graciously dedicated his awards to his family, friends, and, crucially, the neighborhoods of Los Angeles, including Palisades and Altadena. He emphasized the support he has received throughout his journey. This focus on community exemplifies the importance of local culture in his music and how it has shaped his career.
The Rivalry Heats Up
While Lamar was basking in glory, Drake was quick to respond to the ongoing feud. Just shortly after the Grammy wins, Drake teased new music on February 3, seemingly unfazed by Lamar’s accolades. His father, Dennis Graham, also weighed in, expressing indifference to Kendrick’s successes in a recent interview, showing that the rivalry is alive and kicking. The stakes are high, and the anticipation for both artists’ next moves is intense.
- Drake released a teaser for new music soon after the Grammy Awards.
- Drake’s father stated he was indifferent to Kendrick’s wins.
- The ongoing feud continues to capture media attention.
A New Era for Hip-Hop
Kendrick’s Grammy wins, especially the Record of the Year, mark a turning point in recognizing hip-hop’s evolution within mainstream music. With only a few hip-hop songs having achieved this honor, Lamar joins an elite group. His song, praised for its clever and entertaining lyrics, shows that hip-hop is not just about beats; it’s also a platform for storytelling and cultural expression.
As we step into a new era in music, Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’ is not just a song; it’s a declaration of independence, artistry, and the enduring spirit of hip-hop. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how the ongoing dynamics between these two rap powerhouses unfold.
