Los Angeles, CA – Chart history has been significantly reshaped as Kendrick Lamar has set two unprecedented records on key Billboard rap charts, according to the listings dated July 5, 2025. His critically acclaimed latest studio album, “GNX,” and his collaboration with SZA, “Luther,” have both achieved milestones marking the longest runs at the top of their respective charts.
“GNX” Achieves Historic Reign on Top Rap Albums Chart
Lamar’s album, “GNX,” has secured its place in the annals of hip-hop history by becoming the longest-running No. 1 album on Billboard’s Top Rap Albums chart. The album reached its astonishing 22nd non-consecutive week at the peak position on the latest charts. This remarkable feat surpasses the previous record holder, Pop Smoke’s posthumous album, “Shoot For The Stars Aim For The Moon.” Pop Smoke’s album had held the top spot for 21 weeks, a dominant run that concluded in April 2021.
Prior to Pop Smoke’s achievement, the record for the longest reign on the Top Rap Albums chart belonged to Eminem’s Grammy-winning album, “Recovery,” which spent a total of 19 weeks at No. 1. Lamar’s “GNX” now definitively holds the record, underscoring the album’s enduring popularity and commercial success.
Released on November 22, 2024, “GNX” made a powerful debut on the Billboard charts, entering at No. 1 on the Top Rap Albums chart dated December 7, 2024. This debut marked Kendrick Lamar’s sixth chart-topping album on this specific listing, further cementing his status as one of the most successful artists in the genre’s history.
“Luther” Claims Top Spot Record on Hot Rap Songs Chart
In addition to his album’s historic performance, Kendrick Lamar also broke a record on the Hot Rap Songs chart. His collaboration with fellow acclaimed artist SZA, titled “Luther,” has become the longest-running No. 1 track in the history of this chart. This achievement highlights the collaborative power of the two artists and the track’s sustained impact within the rap and R&B landscape.
The Hot Rap Songs chart is a crucial metric that blends airplay, streaming data, and digital sales to rank the most popular rap songs weekly. A song’s ability to maintain the No. 1 position over an extended period reflects deep listener engagement and widespread consumption, making “Luther’s” record-breaking run particularly significant.
Critical Acclaim and Enduring Impact
The commercial success reflected in these chart records is mirrored by widespread critical acclaim for “GNX.” Upon its release, the album garnered significant praise from music critics around the world. Reviews frequently highlighted Lamar’s intricate lyricism, innovative production, and thematic depth.
Notably, some critics have hailed “GNX” as a masterpiece within Lamar’s already illustrious discography. For example, the respected music publication Stereogum notably called the album Lamar’s “greatest work.” This level of critical reception, coupled with its record-breaking chart performance, solidifies “GNX” not only as a commercial success but also as a significant artistic statement.
These dual records on the July 5, 2025 Billboard charts underscore Kendrick Lamar’s continued influence and dominance in the music industry. His ability to produce both critically lauded albums and commercially resonant singles demonstrates a rare blend of artistic integrity and mainstream appeal, setting new benchmarks for future artists.
