Kendrick Lamar Just Made History—And Drake Definitely Won’t Like This!

Kendrick Lamar has once again cemented his place at the top of the rap game. His 2024 album, GNX, has become the first rap project to surpass 1 million album-equivalent units in the United States in 2025. This incredible achievement underscores Kendrick’s influence in the music industry and his ability to consistently deliver chart-topping, culturally significant work.

Released on November 22, 2024, GNX marks Lamar’s sixth studio album and his first under pgLang/Interscope Records after parting ways with Top Dawg Entertainment and Aftermath Entertainment. The album’s success not only highlights Kendrick’s undeniable artistry but also his ability to break records in an era where streaming dominates music consumption.

A Star-Studded Production Team and Features

GNX is a product of musical brilliance and high-caliber collaborations. The album was executive produced by Jack Antonoff and Sounwave, two titans in the production world known for their ability to craft chart-dominating hits.

Adding to the allure of GNX, Kendrick enlisted some of the industry’s most respected names. SZA, Roddy Ricch, and Kamasi Washington lend their talents to the project, adding depth and diversity to its sound. Other notable appearances include AzChike, Deyra Barrera, Dody 6, Hitta J3, Ink, Peysoh, Sam Dew, Siete, Wallie The Sensei, and Young Threat, making this album a melting pot of raw lyricism, innovative production, and West Coast energy.

The Impact of the Drake Beef on GNX

A significant driving force behind the hype and commercial success of GNX was Kendrick Lamar’s headline-dominating rap beef with Drake. The feud began when Kendrick dropped subliminal shots at both Drake and J. Cole on Future and Metro Boomin’s track “Like That.” While J. Cole chose to step away from the battle, the situation escalated into a full-fledged war of words between two of hip-hop’s biggest titans.

This beef led to a string of diss tracks, with “Not Like Us” emerging as the standout anthem of 2024. The song became one of the year’s biggest hits, dominating streaming platforms and earning multiple Grammy Awards at the 2025 ceremony. Kendrick’s momentum was further amplified when he delivered a show-stopping performance of “Not Like Us” at the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show, a moment that left fans and critics alike in awe.

Kendrick’s Take on the Beef: ‘It Was Just Sport’

Despite the intensity of the battle, Kendrick Lamar has made it clear that, for him, the rap beef was purely about competition. In a recent Apple Music interview, the Compton-born rapper shared his perspective on the exchange with Drake.

“My intent from day one was to keep the nature of it as a sport,” Lamar explained. “I don’t care how motherfuckers look at it as far as like a collaborative effort. That’s cool too, but I love when artists grit their teeth.”

A self-proclaimed student of battle rap, Kendrick went on to express his admiration for the competitive side of hip-hop:

“I still watch battle raps; I still watch Smack URL—from Murda Mook to Lux to Tay Roc, my bro Daylyt. This has always been the core definition of who I am.”

For Lamar, rap beef is nothing new—it’s a continuum of the genre’s raw essence. He further explained:

“What I will say about this year is that it was more from a space where I think a lot of people were putting rap to the back, and you didn’t see that grit, you didn’t see that bite anymore.”

His words reinforce the notion that hip-hop thrives on competition, and GNX is proof that Kendrick still dominates that arena.

The Commercial and Cultural Impact of GNX

Kendrick Lamar’s GNX is more than just a successful album; it’s a cultural moment. By reaching the 1 million album-equivalent milestone, Kendrick has demonstrated that his music remains both commercially viable and deeply impactful in an ever-changing industry.

The album’s success speaks volumes about his ability to maintain relevance in a competitive market. Unlike many artists who struggle to adapt to streaming-era dynamics, Kendrick has proven that his storytelling, lyricism, and authenticity still resonate with listeners. His meticulous approach to music ensures that each project he releases feels like an event, and GNX is no exception.

What’s Next for Kendrick Lamar?

With GNX continuing to dominate the charts, what’s next for Kendrick Lamar? Given his track record, fans can expect more innovative projects, legendary collaborations, and potentially another unexpected move in his career.

While rumors of a tour have been swirling, there has yet to be an official confirmation. However, considering the massive reception of GNX, a global tour seems inevitable.

Moreover, Kendrick’s recent partnership with pgLang, the multimedia company he co-founded with Dave Free, suggests that he has broader ambitions beyond music. Whether it’s film, fashion, or new artistic ventures, one thing is clear: Kendrick Lamar is far from done shaping the cultural landscape.

Final Thoughts: Kendrick Lamar’s Legacy Strengthens

Kendrick Lamar has already solidified himself as one of the greatest rappers of all time, but GNX has further strengthened his legacy.

By achieving the first 1-million milestone for a rap album in 2025, he has once again raised the bar. His willingness to engage in competition, his ability to craft timeless, thought-provoking music, and his impact on both hip-hop and broader culture make him a force to be reckoned with.

As the year progresses, one thing remains certain: Kendrick Lamar isn’t just winning in 2025—he’s dominating.