Kendrick Lamar has reached yet another milestone, securing his position at the forefront of the rap industry. His latest album, GNX, has officially become the fastest rap album to reach 2 billion streams, surpassing Travis Scott’s UTOPIA record. According to NFR Podcast, GNX achieved this remarkable feat within just 96 days, breaking Scott’s previous record of 114 days set back in 2023.
The year 2025 has already been incredibly eventful for Kendrick Lamar. It started with him sweeping five Grammy awards for his hit diss track, “Not Like Us.” This song emerged from his high-profile rap feud with fellow artist Drake, adding even more fuel to the competitive fire between the two rap titans. Kendrick hardly rested on his laurels, following this victory with a stunning performance at Super Bowl LIX, which significantly widened his audience and ticked another box on his already impressive list of achievements.
But the success of GNX doesn’t stop at streaming records. The album’s tracks are dominating the Billboard Hot 100, with songs like “Not Like Us,” “Luther” (featuring SZA), “TV Off,” and “Squabble Up” all landing within the top five. Each track showcases the cultural impact and lyrical prowess of Lamar, solidifying his status as one of the most influential artists of his generation.
Despite Kendrick’s recent accomplishments, the competitive air remains thick. Drake, who was recently engaged in a lyrical showdown with Lamar, has managed to reclaim his position as Spotify’s No. 1 artist, with Kendrick following closely behind at No. 2. This power struggle between the two artists keeps fans on edge, excitedly anticipating the direction their rivalry will take next.
Kendrick Lamar’s GNX is not merely another album; it's indicative of his relentless drive to push boundaries. By surpassing Scott’s record, he not only asserts his dominance over his peers but also elevates expectations for future releases. Lamar’s skill and artistry put him at the apex of the rap genre, inspiring countless fans and artists alike.
The competition between Kendrick Lamar and Drake has become a focal point for hip-hop enthusiasts, with each artist exhibiting their unique styles and themes, punctuated by their lyrical struggles. Kendrick's ability to deliver hard-hitting lyrics combined with innovative musical production continues to resonate with audiences globally. His recent Grammy wins and Super Bowl performance serve as additional affirmations of his cultural significance.
Many listeners, eager to see how this rivalry will evolve, are left wondering what the future holds for both artists. Each new release has the potential to shape the musical narrative of our time, and with GNX being such a monumental success, expectations are higher than ever. The transition from rapper to cultural icon is not lost on Kendrick; his efforts to expand his influence extend beyond mere numbers—they represent his commitment to his craft and his fans.
With the world watching, Kendrick Lamar is not just responding to the metrics of the music industry; he is redefining them. His records push the envelope, making waves across platforms and solidifying his status as not only one of the most celebrated rappers of today but also one of the most compelling figures of the decade. Time will tell how this narrative of competition against Drake will continue to develop as both artists climb higher on the charts and engage with their audiences through their art.
For now, the landmark achievement of GNX stands as a testimony to Kendrick Lamar’s unparalleled talent and ambition. Fans and critics alike are watching closely, eagerly anticipating what he’ll do next, and whether he can maintain this momentum against one of the toughest contenders in contemporary music.