Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like US” is top selling rap song of 2024
Kendrick Lamar has had one of the most monumental years of his career in 2024, solidifying his place as one of hip-hop’s undisputed legends. From chart-topping singles to Grammy nominations and a number-one album, Lamar has taken over the music world once again.
Kendrick Lamar’s Not Like Us: A Cultural Milestone
Released in May 2024, Kendrick Lamar’s single “Not Like Us” made an immediate splash. The song debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Lamar’s fourth chart-topping single in his career. But it wasn’t just the track’s commercial success that made waves. The accompanying music video, which saw a cinematic blend of storytelling and powerful imagery, amassed over 20 million views within its first 24 hours. That’s not just impressive; it’s a testament to Lamar’s unmatched ability to capture the public’s attention.
The song, a direct hit at rival rapper Drake, sparked a renewed tension between the two, reigniting their well-documented beef. Many fans believe that Lamar’s lyrical genius shines brightest when he’s at odds with other big names in hip-hop. Whether or not “Not Like Us” was entirely about Drake, it certainly served as a reminder of Lamar’s dominant presence in the rap game.
A Grammy-Worthy Year: 5 Nominations for “Not Like Us”
As if the song’s success wasn’t enough, “Not Like Us” also earned five Grammy nominations in November 2024. These included high-profile categories like Record of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Rap Performance, Best Rap Song, and Best Music Video. This is a huge nod to Lamar’s consistent ability to push boundaries in both lyrical content and artistry.
As a result, many are already calling Not Like Us one of the strongest contenders of the year, and with good reason. Lamar has continuously raised the bar for rap and hip-hop with his complex storytelling and unique production choices. These Grammy nominations not only highlight his songwriting talent but also affirm that Lamar is continuing to evolve as an artist. Whether it’s addressing social issues or taking aim at his competitors, Lamar does it with a level of sophistication that few can match.
Breaking Records: Not Like Us Becomes the Best-Selling Rap Song of 2024
Furthermore, beyond Grammy nominations, Not Like Us has dominated the sales charts, becoming the best-selling rap song of 2024. As of December 2024, it has sold an astonishing 6.75 million units. This milestone places the track as the second-best-selling song overall for the year, right behind a pop juggernaut that has maintained steady popularity since its release.
For context, Kendrick Lamar’s commercial success is rivaled by only a few in the industry. The fact that “Not Like Us” outpaced other rap songs on the charts demonstrates Lamar’s continued commercial appeal, even in a crowded and ever-changing music industry. With such numbers, Kendrick Lamar has proven that his fans are not just loyal—they’re passionate.
In a world where music consumption is largely driven by streaming, Lamar’s ability to achieve such a sales figure shows the power of his name and the continued impact of his music.
“GNX”: Kendrick Lamar’s Latest Album and a New Era
After an already unforgettable year, Kendrick Lamar ended 2024 with the release of his highly anticipated album, GNX, which dropped in November. The 12-track album features collaborations with artists like SZA and Roddy Ricch, blending Lamar’s signature sound with fresh, exciting new influences. If Not Like Us signaled Lamar’s return to form, GNX cemented his status as an innovative force within hip-hop.
The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, further adding to Lamar’s collection of chart-topping successes. What’s especially striking about GNX is how Lamar continues to evolve with each release. The album mixes introspective lyricism with bold new production styles, showcasing his versatility and continued growth as an artist.
Kendrick Lamar’s Resilience in the Face of Rivalries
Much of Kendrick Lamar’s public persona has been shaped by his rivalries, particularly with Drake. 2024 saw the beef between the two once again come to the forefront with the release of “Not Like Us.” But it’s important to note that these rivalries aren’t just about personal animosity—they often serve as a catalyst for Lamar’s creative expression.
Rivalries in hip-hop have a long history of producing some of the genre’s most memorable music, and Kendrick Lamar is no exception. His competitive edge, combined with his ability to reflect on both his personal experiences and the larger social landscape, has made him one of the most impactful artists of his generation.
While some might focus on the drama, others appreciate Lamar’s ability to rise above and use that energy to fuel his work. His ability to turn a beef into art has only solidified his reputation as an artist who operates at a level far above his peers.
The Future of Kendrick Lamar: What’s Next?
With 2024 being such a historic year for Kendrick Lamar, many fans are left wondering what comes next for the California-born rapper. His continued evolution as both an artist and a cultural icon is something worth watching closely.
While his beef with Drake might have been a focal point this year, it’s clear that Lamar is always looking ahead, crafting new sounds, telling new stories, and addressing complex themes. Whether it’s experimenting with new genres, collaborating with fresh voices, or challenging societal norms, Kendrick Lamar’s future in hip-hop is undoubtedly bright.
Therefore, fans are eagerly awaiting what the next phase of Kendrick’s career will look like. Will he continue to dominate the charts? Will his upcoming albums bring even more revolutionary changes to the genre? One thing’s for sure: Kendrick Lamar will be at the forefront of music, and his impact on hip-hop will continue to be felt for years to come.
Why Kendrick Lamar’s 2024 is More Than Just Chart Success
Kendrick Lamar’s 2024 achievements aren’t just about chart-topping singles and Grammy nominations. They signify the enduring legacy of one of the most influential artists of this generation. Lamar’s music has always been a reflection of the times—an exploration of culture, identity, and the personal struggles he’s faced.
His success this year is a reminder that authenticity, creativity, and innovation remain at the core of his music. In an era where pop culture often revolves around fleeting trends, Kendrick Lamar’s ability to stay true to his artistic vision while evolving as an artist is a rare and powerful thing.
For fans and newcomers alike, Kendrick Lamar’s 2024 journey has been one to watch, and it’s clear that his influence on hip-hop, and music as a whole, will only continue to grow.
A Year for the Books
In 2024, Kendrick Lamar once again proved why he’s a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. His single “Not Like Us” not only dominated charts but also became a cultural touchstone. With Grammy nominations, record-breaking sales, and the release of a number-one album, Lamar has set a new standard for excellence in hip-hop. As the year comes to a close, one thing is clear: Kendrick Lamar is just getting started, and the best may still be yet to come.
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