Kendrick Lamar’s ‘GNX’ Sets Record as Longest-Running No. 1 Rap Album in Billboard History
Kendrick Lamar has made history once again, as his latest album GNX becomes the longest-running No. 1 rap album ever on Billboard’s Top Rap Albums chart.
Originally released in November, GNX has now spent an unprecedented 22 consecutive weeks at the top of the chart, surpassing the previous record of 21 weeks held by Pop Smoke’s posthumous release Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon. The milestone marks a new high in Lamar’s already storied career and signals the enduring popularity of the project.
The album’s ongoing dominance comes as Lamar wraps up the North American leg of the Grand National Tour, a joint venture with fellow Top Dawg Entertainment alum, SZA. The tour has also made headlines, becoming the highest-grossing co-headlining tour in music history.
In just 23 shows across the United States and Canada, the duo has raked in more than $256 million, averaging $11.1 million per show and selling 1.1 million tickets. Each performance has drawn an average crowd of 48,000 fans, underscoring the massive appeal of both artists.
During a recent stop in Maryland, SZA publicly paid tribute to Lamar during a joint performance, becoming emotional as she thanked him for his impact on her career. “He put me onto the biggest moment of my life,” she told the crowd. “This is also the biggest moment of my life… I’m so thankful, and I’m so thankful to y’all.”
The heartfelt moment was followed by a warm embrace between the two “Luther” collaborators before they continued their set.
In a previous interview with Interview Magazine, SZA admitted she initially had doubts about sharing the spotlight with the Grammy-winning rapper, citing anxiety and feelings of self-doubt. “Same thing with the Kendrick tour. Everybody’s going to see Kendrick,” she said. “I don’t even know if I have anything to show these people that’s exciting and new.”
Despite her initial fears, the tour’s success – both commercially and emotionally – has become a defining moment for both stars.
With GNX continuing its record-breaking streak and the Grand National Tour setting new benchmarks, Kendrick Lamar’s legacy as one of hip-hop’s most influential artists grows ever stronger.
