Kendrick Lamar a popular and notable name in rap music is continuously making waves, reaching milestones as the top selling songs, and gaining numerous accolades along with going on tours with other popular artists and landing an upcoming halftime performance at Super Bowl LIX .
"Not Like Us" Spotify Milestone
Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us” achieved over a billion streams on Spotify. It’s the first diss track to reach that major milestone . This accomplishment took only a short time after the songs initial release which was in May of last year.
Record Breaking Achievements
This achievement on Spotify was in addition to already having claimed to be both best selling song, being named top rap song of 2024 and having the most streamed song of 2024 on Apple music. That made this new feat a way to prove what the songs message already demonstrated which is success from strong fan appreciation.
Legal Drama with Drake and UMG
The song “Not Like Us” created tension and legal disputes with other rapper Drake and also with Universal Music Group which made things become intense. Drake claimed that UMG inflated popularity with payola which would ultimately create a better outcome and revenue with its plays.
Allegations of Streaming Bots and Defamation
Drake is alleging in his legal action that Universal Music group created an inflated play of "Not Like Us" using streaming bots. Furthermore Drake alleges defamation saying they released it knowing it could give a false representation about his own character due to explicit lyrics and language. The legal filings by Drakes requests access to information to pursue a law suite if deemed necessary.
Universal Music Group's Response
UMG issued a statement disputing Drakes claims stating that their practices are within ethical business models and they did nothing to harm the rapper. The organization stated that listeners made choices themselves on what music to hear as many of the fans enjoyed Lamar’s creation.
Kendrick Lamar's Musical Ventures
While "Not Like Us" is making headlines, Kendrick released “GNX”, another new project a few months before his superbowl halftime show as well as heading on the “Grand National Tour” this coming summer with SZA. In addition the single charted across many top billboard charts showing his popularity across all regions of the industry.
"GNX" Album and Touring
His newest surprise album “GNX” arrived November 2024 with the songs inspired from areas such as Los Angeles history and the state of hip hop. "GNX" demonstrates themes of his identity as a rapper along with blending a mix of rap, jazz and other forms of musical influence from his past idols. His tour will also show that evolution by having performances all over the world. He's creating a different identity all while not separating where he started from.
"In the Heart of the Sea's" Netflix Resurgence
Although not directly related, one of Tom Holland’s films “In the Heart of the Sea” has become a recent trend . This movie, from 2015 co stars Tom Holland alongside Chris Hemsworth which has landed the number one position on Netflix. The film is now showing its staying power on home viewing instead of theatrical viewings.
Themes in Film and Music
The adventure film which shares the tragic events of the whaleship Essex has received more attention due to it’s streaming run time. The real story behind Moby Dick that highlights survival against odds seems to have been a positive in today’s culture with an interest into more complex issues.
Super Bowl Halftime Show
In addition to the album drop Lamar is set to perform at Super Bowl LIX. Some would say the performance was “controversial” for Lil Wayne, but that has since resolved, making that now an area of excitement. Lil Wayne has openly shared he now hopes for success and “all the best” to be given to Lamar at the event.
"Luther" and "TV Off" Tracks in Dolby Atmos
Kendrick's innovative approaches aren’t only shown in his personal style and his lyrical delivery, but are now shown in other avenues by bringing tracks like “Luther” and “TV Off” to Dolby Atmos showing his creativity with new formats. “Luther” has many intricate vocal layers and samples highlighting his musical ability in addition to a catchy beat. “TV Off” creates an immersive experience to all listeners. He created innovative ways to deliver audio which will continue to create influence throughout the industry and is still ongoing through the present day.
Key Takeaways
- "Not Like Us" surpasses 1 billion streams on Spotify which was a first time ever in diss tracks.
- Drake has filed a legal case against Universal Music for boosting the songs plays and defamation that is being disputed by UMG.
- Lamar surprise dropped a new album “GNX” which explores new perspectives with familiar styles.
- His influence is felt not only with popularity in new music and touring but also the upcoming halftime show performance in the super bowl.
- He has shown to be an impactful and creative force in the media which will undoubtedly continue into the foreseeable future.