Kendrick Lamar and SZA performing Luther

Kendrick Lamar Breaks Enormous Chart Record With ‘Luther’

Introduction

Kendrick Lamar, in collaboration with SZA, has once again redefined what it means to dominate the music charts. Their hit single “Luther,” from Lamar’s acclaimed album GNX, has shattered records by becoming the longest-running No. 1 song in the history of Billboard’s Hot Rap Songs chart, clocking an unprecedented 27 weeks at the top...

The Record-Breaking Run of “Luther”

“Luther,” a melodic tribute to the late R&B legend Luther Vandross, whose vocals are sampled in the track, has not only dominated the Hot Rap Songs chart but also made history across multiple Billboard rankings. The song spent 13 consecutive weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100, marking the longest No. 1 run for both Kendrick Lamar and SZA in their careers. It also ruled the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart for 27 weeks, setting a new record for the longest-running No. 1 since the chart’s consolidation in 1958.

A Cultural and Musical Milestone

“Luther” is more than just a chart-topping single; it’s a cultural moment. Released as part of Lamar’s 2024 album GNX, the song emerged as the emotional centerpiece of the project, blending soul-infused hooks with introspective verses. Its homage to Luther Vandross connects contemporary hip-hop and R&B with the genre’s historical roots, resonating with listeners across generations.

Breaking Down the Numbers

The Grand National Tour and Cultural Impact

The success of “Luther” extends beyond the charts to Lamar and SZA’s Grand National Tour, which has redefined what a rap and R&B tour can achieve. The tour’s opening night in Minneapolis grossed over $9.1 million, breaking Eminem’s record for the highest-grossing rap concert. A subsequent show in Dallas brought in $11.8 million, and the Seattle performance set a new benchmark at $14.8 million.

Historical Context and Comparisons

“Luther’s” 13-week run on the Billboard Hot 100 ties it with Brandy and Monica’s “The Boy Is Mine” (1998) for the second-longest No. 1 run among duets by co-billed solo men and women, behind only Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men’s “One Sweet Day” (16 weeks in 1995-96).

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The Legacy of “Luther”

“Luther” is more than a chart-topping hit; it’s a testament to the enduring power of collaboration and artistic innovation. As it continues to dominate airwaves and streaming platforms, its legacy is already cemented as one of the defining songs of 2025.

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