Kendrick Lamar Returns To No. 1 And Extends His Historic Record

The world of hip-hop has witnessed another major milestone as Kendrick Lamar and SZA reclaimed the No. 1 position on the Billboard Hot Rap Songs chart with their collaborative hit “Luther.” This achievement comes after briefly being surpassed by BigXthaPlug and Bailey Zimmerman’s track “All the Way.” The resurgence of “Luther” at the top reflects not only the track’s staying power but also the unmatched influence of two of today’s most celebrated artists.

From the stage to the charts, Kendrick Lamar’s dominance shows no sign of slowing, while SZA continues to prove why she’s one of the most powerful voices in modern music.

The Return of “Luther” to No. 1

“Luther” by Kendrick Lamar and SZA has been a force on the charts since its release, bringing together the lyrical precision of Lamar and the soulful resonance of SZA. After initially capturing the top spot, the track momentarily slipped to No. 2 when BigXthaPlug and Bailey Zimmerman surged with their breakout collaboration.

However, the return of “Luther” to No. 1 demonstrates its broad appeal and replay value. The song also secured a place on Billboard’s Top Songs of the Summer list, ranking at No. 5 behind hits from Alex Warren, Morgan Wallen, Tate McRae, and others. This dual success underscores the song’s impact across both hip-hop and mainstream audiences.

Kendrick Lamar: A Career Defined by Excellence

For Kendrick Lamar, this victory adds to an already staggering list of achievements in recent years. Known as one of the greatest lyricists of his generation, Lamar’s ability to fuse deep storytelling with commercial success sets him apart.

Earlier this month, he won his second Emmy Award for Outstanding Music Direction alongside Tony Russell for the Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show. The performance wasn’t just a triumph for Lamar; it became the most-viewed halftime show in NFL history, drawing 133.5 million viewers worldwide. The production also received nominations for Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special, Outstanding Variety Special (Live), and Choreography.

With such accolades, Kendrick Lamar has firmly cemented himself as an artist who can seamlessly dominate music, television, and cultural moments on the grandest stages.

The Grand National Tour: Breaking Records Across the Globe

One of the most significant highlights of 2025 for both Kendrick Lamar and SZA has been the Grand National Tour, which launched in Minneapolis this April. The tour quickly became a record-breaking success, generating headlines worldwide.

• In June, it was declared the highest-grossing co-headlining tour in history, amassing an incredible $256.4 million by mid-year.

• The duo has since captivated audiences in Cologne, Amsterdam, Paris, London, and other major European cities, proving their international appeal.

• The tour has been lauded not only for its musical performances but also for its stage design, visuals, and storytelling that echo both Lamar’s lyrical depth and SZA’s emotional artistry.

Currently, Kendrick Lamar is preparing for the South American leg of the tour, with scheduled shows in Mexico City, Bogotá, São Paulo, Buenos Aires, and Santiago. While SZA will not be joining him for this segment, the momentum of the tour remains unstoppable.

In December, Kendrick will take the Grand National Tour to Australia, with scheduled performances in Melbourne and Sydney, further expanding the global footprint of this historic run.

SZA’s Impact on “Luther” and Beyond

While Kendrick Lamar’s dominance is undeniable, SZA’s contribution to “Luther” has been equally essential. Her powerful vocals balance Lamar’s intricate wordplay, creating a dynamic that resonates across demographics. SZA’s career has been on a sharp upward trajectory, with her albums and singles consistently charting high, and her live performances drawing praise for their authenticity and emotional depth.

Though she will not be part of Lamar’s South American shows, her presence on the Grand National Tour’s earlier legs was a driving force behind its record-breaking success. Her ability to connect deeply with audiences continues to make her one of the most influential voices in contemporary R&B and hip-hop.

The Cultural Significance of “Luther”

The success of “Luther” is not just about chart numbers—it represents a cultural moment. The collaboration between Kendrick Lamar and SZA taps into themes of resilience, creativity, and artistry that transcend simple entertainment.

For Kendrick, the song strengthens his reputation as a visionary capable of merging commercial appeal with critical depth. For SZA, it adds another milestone in her journey of evolving into a generational talent whose influence crosses genres.

Together, their synergy has proven to be more than just a commercial formula—it’s an artistic partnership that resonates with millions of fans worldwide.

What’s Next for Kendrick Lamar and SZA?

With the Grand National Tour continuing to shatter records, both artists have a packed calendar ahead. Kendrick Lamar’s solo performances in South America and Australia are expected to draw massive crowds, while speculation grows about his next studio project following the success of “Luther.”

SZA, meanwhile, is reportedly focusing on new music, with fans eagerly awaiting details about her upcoming releases. Given her momentum, it’s clear she will continue to be a dominant force on the charts and on stage.

Both artists also remain frontrunners for end-of-year award nominations, with “Luther” expected to be a major contender across categories.

Final Thoughts

The resurgence of Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “Luther” at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Rap Songs chart is more than just a chart statistic—it’s a statement about longevity, artistry, and cultural dominance. With Kendrick’s unmatched lyrical genius and SZA’s soulful power, the song represents the best of what modern hip-hop and R&B have to offer.

From record-breaking tours to Emmy-winning performances, Kendrick Lamar continues to redefine excellence, while SZA stands tall as one of the most important voices of her generation. Together, their collaboration reminds us that music is at its most powerful when talent and vision meet.

As the year continues, fans around the world will be watching closely to see what’s next for these two icons. If “Luther” and the Grand National Tour are any indications, the journey ahead is bound to be just as historic as the milestones already achieved.