Kendrick Lamar’s latest album, “GNX,” has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the longest-running number one rap album on Billboard’s Top Rap Albums chart. Released in November 2024, “GNX” has maintained its position at the top for 22 consecutive weeks, surpassing the previous record held by Pop Smoke’s posthumous album “Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon,” which topped the chart for 21 weeks.
The album’s success is further underscored by its impressive streaming performance. “GNX” achieved over 44.2 million Spotify streams within just seven hours of its release, averaging 3.6 million plays per track. Additionally, all 12 songs from the album debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, occupying the entire top five simultaneously. This feat places Lamar among an elite group of artists who have achieved such dominance on the charts.
The album’s lead single, “Squabble Up,” also made a significant impact by debuting at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This achievement marked Lamar’s fifth consecutive number one album and his third number one single, solidifying his position as a dominant force in the music industry.
In addition to its commercial success, “GNX” has been lauded for its artistic depth and cultural significance. The album pays homage to Los Angeles, showcasing Lamar’s enduring influence and dedication to the genre. His performance at the Super Bowl LIX halftime show, where he became the first solo hip-hop artist to headline, further cemented his status as a cultural icon.
Lamar’s “Grand National Tour” with SZA has also been a monumental success, becoming the highest-grossing co-headlining tour in history. The tour has grossed over $254.6 million and sold 1.1 million tickets from 23 shows, with plans to extend to Europe, the UK, and Australia later this year.
Overall, “GNX” not only reflects Kendrick Lamar’s artistic evolution but also signifies a new era in hip-hop, where longevity, streaming strength, and artistic depth are redefining success. Lamar’s ability to blend critical acclaim with chart-topping appeal speaks to his enduring impact on the music industry.
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