Drake No Longer Can Win: Kendrick Lamar's "Not Like Us" Continues No. 1 Spot After Electrifying Super Bowl Performance

In a historic moment for hip-hop, Kendrick Lamar’s controversial diss track “Not Like Us” has reclaimed the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 following an explosive performance at Super Bowl LIX. The track, widely regarded as a direct attack on fellow rapper Drake, has reignited discussions about their ongoing rivalry and cemented Lamar’s dominance in the industry.

With record-breaking viewership numbers, social media buzz, and unprecedented chart dominance, Lamar’s Super Bowl moment proved that he’s not just a rapper—he’s a cultural movement. But what does this mean for his career, his feud with Drake, and the future of hip-hop?

The Super Bowl Performance That Stopped the Nation

On February 9, 2025, Kendrick Lamar took center stage at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans for one of the most highly anticipated Super Bowl halftime shows in history. His 13-minute performance wasn’t just a showcase of his discography—it was a statement.

From the opening beats of DNA. to the closing notes of Alright, Lamar’s set was a masterclass in performance art. But the moment that sent the internet into a frenzy was his live rendition of “Not Like Us”—the track that has kept his rivalry with Drake at the forefront of hip-hop discourse.

Super Bowl Stats: The Power of Kendrick Lamar’s Performance

Peak viewership: Kendrick’s halftime show drew over 123 million viewers, making it the most-watched musical performance in Super Bowl history.
Super Flush Effect: According to NYC’s Department of Environmental Protection, there was a 558,594-flush drop in toilet use during his set—a clear sign that fans were glued to their screens.
Spotify Surge: Within 24 hours, Not Like Us saw a 670% increase in streams, making it the most-streamed song of the night.

It was more than just a performance—it was a cultural reset.

‘Not Like Us’: The Diss Track That Won’t Die

Released in May 2024, “Not Like Us” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Kendrick Lamar’s fourth chart-topping single. But what makes this song so special?

For one, it’s directly aimed at Drake—and Kendrick does not hold back. From accusations of industry fakery to serious allegations about Drake’s past, Lamar uses “Not Like Us” to dismantle his opponent piece by piece.

The song’s brutal honesty, combined with its infectious West Coast production, turned it into an instant classic.

Billboard Chart History: The Song That Keeps Coming Back

May 2024: Debuted at No. 1
Fall 2024: Slipped down the charts as new music dominated
February 2025: Super Bowl boost sends it back to No. 1
The first non-holiday song in Billboard history to return to No. 1 three separate times

It’s a feat only legends accomplish, and Lamar’s Super Bowl performance sealed its legacy.

Drake vs. Kendrick: A Feud for the Ages

The Lamar-Drake rivalry isn’t new. It dates back to 2013, when Kendrick dropped his now-iconic verse on Big Sean’s “Control,” calling out his peers—including Drake.

Since then, the cold war between the two artists has played out through:

Subliminal disses in their lyrics
Public interviews filled with subtle jabs
Fans dissecting every move on social media

But Not Like Us took things to another level. It wasn’t just a diss track—it was a character assassination.

Drake’s Response: A Struggle to Reclaim the Narrative

Drake hasn’t stayed silent. In late 2024, he released his own diss tracks, attempting to shift the public’s perception. But they didn’t land the way he hoped.

In a desperate attempt to diversify his sound, Drake dropped a Spanglish track called “Meet Your Padre,” blending flamenco with Mexican corridos. Unfortunately, it flopped—with Spanish-speaking audiences roasting it online for being inauthentic.

TikTok Trend: Fans made viral videos mocking Drake’s pronunciation
Kendrick’s Victory: The public overwhelmingly sided with Lamar, boosting Not Like Us back to No. 1

Drake’s response wasn’t just weak—it was a confirmation that Lamar had won this round.

Kendrick Lamar’s Chart Dominance: Breaking Records & Making History

Following his Super Bowl triumph, Kendrick Lamar has accomplished something no rapper has ever done.

Billboard 200 Milestone

First rapper in 69 years to have three albums in the Top 10 simultaneously
DAMN., Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, and To Pimp a Butterfly all surged back onto the charts
Global impact solidified as fans around the world revisited his discography

In addition, Lamar’s collaboration with SZA, titled Luther, recently hit No. 1—showcasing his versatility and ability to dominate across genres.

Kendrick isn’t just winning—he’s rewriting the rulebook.

What’s Next for Kendrick Lamar?

With momentum on his side, Kendrick Lamar is preparing for one of the biggest tours of his career.

The “Luther Tour”

Headlining stadiums across the U.S. and Europe
Performing at Premier League venues
Anticipated as one of 2025’s highest-grossing tours

But the real question remains: Is Kendrick done with Drake?

Industry insiders believe Lamar has more music in the vault, and some speculate he might drop another diss track before the tour begins. If that happens, it could permanently end Drake’s reign as hip-hop’s mainstream king.

The Cultural Impact of ‘Not Like Us’

“Not Like Us” isn’t just a song—it’s a cultural shift.

Calls Out Industry Fakery: Forces conversations about authenticity in hip-hop
Gives Power to Lyricism: Reminds fans that bars still matter in an era of melody-driven rap
Challenges the Status Quo: Kendrick takes on the establishment, proving artistry beats popularity

Few songs have had this kind of long-lasting impact. And with its multiple No. 1 reigns, “Not Like Us” is officially in the hip-hop hall of fame.