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The indomitable Kendrick Lamar has once again etched his name in music history, with his latest release, “Not Like Us,” soaring to the pinnacle of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This achievement solidifies Lamar’s status as a true force to be reckoned with in the realm of hip-hop and beyond.
According to the esteemed publication Billboard, Lamar’s “Not Like Us” – a diss track purportedly aimed at his longtime rival, Drake – has secured the coveted No. 1 spot on the prestigious Hot 100 chart. This remarkable feat is made even more impressive by the fact that the track was released after May 3, which marked the commencement of the newest tracking week for the charts.
The success of “Not Like Us” can be attributed to its astonishing performance across various platforms. Since its release on May 5, the track has amassed a staggering 70.9 million streams and garnered an impressive five million radio airplay audience impressions. Additionally, it has sold an impressive 15,000 units, further cementing its widespread appeal.
Kendrick Lamar’s dominance on the Hot 100 chart extends beyond the success of “Not Like Us.” This week, the multitalented artist boasts an impressive three songs in the chart’s top 10, with “Euphoria” claiming the No. 3 spot and “Like That” securing the No. 6 position.
With the debut of “Not Like Us” at No. 1, Kendrick Lamar has now achieved an astounding four No. 1 songs on the Hot 100 chart. This remarkable accomplishment further bolsters his tally of top 10 hits to an impressive 15. Simultaneously, Drake’s “Family Matters” debuted at No. 7, adding to the OVO head’s impressive count of 78 Hot 100 top 10 tracks.
Kendrick Lamar’s impact on the music industry extends far beyond chart dominance. According to ChartData, “Not Like Us” now holds the esteemed “all-time record for biggest single day streams for a solo hip-hop song in global Spotify history” with a staggering 11.85 million streams. This achievement surpassed Drake’s previous record held by his track “Champagne Poetry.”
In addition to “Not Like Us” and “Like That,” Kendrick Lamar’s musical prowess has been evident through his previous chart-topping hits. His 2017 release, “Humble.,” reached the coveted No. 1 spot, while his collaboration with Taylor Swift, “Bad Blood,” also reigned supreme atop the chart in 2015.
Remarkably, “Not Like Us” secured the second-largest US unit sales week for any song in 2024 thus far. This impressive feat was only surpassed by the collaborative effort between Taylor Swift and Post Malone, “Fortnight.”
Kendrick Lamar’s ascent to the top of the music industry has been a testament to his artistic evolution and unwavering dedication to his craft. His ability to seamlessly blend thought-provoking lyrics with captivating melodies has resonated with audiences worldwide, solidifying his position as a cultural icon.
Beyond his musical achievements, Kendrick Lamar has emerged as a powerful voice for social and political commentary. His lyrics often delve into complex themes of identity, injustice, and the human experience, resonating with listeners on a profound level.
Kendrick Lamar’s impact on the music industry has not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous accolades and awards, including multiple Grammy wins and nominations, further cementing his status as one of the most influential artists of his generation.
As Kendrick Lamar continues to shatter records and redefine the boundaries of hip-hop, his influence and legacy are undeniable. With “Not Like Us” claiming the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100, he has once again demonstrated his ability to captivate audiences and leave an indelible mark on the music industry. Lamar’s unwavering dedication to his craft and his willingness to push creative boundaries have solidified his position as a true trailblazer, inspiring generations of artists to come.
