Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “Luther” Continues Historic Reign Atop Billboard Hot 100 for 12th Week

In an era where music charts are often unpredictable, Kendrick Lamar and SZA luther have achieved something truly remarkable. Their collaborative single, “Luther,” has secured the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 for an impressive 12th consecutive week, as reported on May 13, 2025. This milestone not only cements the song’s place in music history but also highlights the undeniable chemistry between two of today’s most influential artists. Let’s dive into why “Luther” is dominating the charts, its cultural impact, and what this achievement means for Kendrick, SZA, and their fans.

A Record-Breaking Duet

“Luther,” a tribute to the legendary R&B icon Luther Vandross, whose work is sampled in the track, has shattered records. According to Billboard, the song now holds the title for the most weeks at No. 1 among duets by co-billed lead solo men and women, surpassing Puff Daddy and Faith Evans’ “I’ll Be Missing You,” which led for 11 weeks in 1997. This achievement is no small feat, considering the Hot 100’s history dates back to 1958. Among all collaborations by co-billed lead male and female artists, only Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men’s “One Sweet Day” has ruled longer, with 16 weeks at the top in 1995-96.

The song’s dominance doesn’t stop there. “Luther” is now the longest-leading R&B/hip-hop No. 1 on the Hot 100 this decade, overtaking Roddy Ricch’s “The Box,” which held the top spot for 11 weeks in 2020. It also ties Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road” for the third-longest reign on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and matches it for the second-longest on the Hot Rap Songs chart, trailing only Kendrick’s own “Not Like Us” at 26 weeks.

The Magic Behind “Luther”

So, what makes “Luther” so special? For starters, it’s a masterful blend of R&B and hip-hop, genres where both Kendrick and SZA shine. The track, released under pgLang/Interscope/ICLG from Kendrick’s 2024 album GNX, combines smooth, soulful vibes with sharp lyricism, creating a sound that appeals to a wide audience. The nod to Luther Vandross adds a layer of nostalgia, resonating with longtime R&B fans while introducing younger listeners to his legacy.

The song’s performance across multiple platforms has fueled its chart success. In the tracking week of May 2-8, 2025, “Luther” garnered 65.4 million radio airplay audience impressions, 19.8 million official streams, and 2,000 downloads, according to Billboard. Its official music video, directed by Karena Evans and released on April 11, 2025, has racked up over 21 million views on YouTube, further boosting its popularity. The video’s sleek visuals and storytelling perfectly complement the song’s emotional depth, making it a cultural moment in itself.

Kendrick and SZA’s Grand National Tour, which kicked off on April 19 in Minneapolis, has also kept “Luther” in the spotlight. Performing the song live to sold-out crowds across North America, the duo has brought its energy to cities like Los Angeles, St. Louis, and even Toronto, the hometown of Kendrick’s rival, Drake. The tour’s success underscores the song’s massive appeal and the artists’ ability to connect with fans on a personal level.

Kendrick and SZA: A Powerhouse Partnership

For Kendrick Lamar, “Luther” marks his sixth Billboard Hot 100 No. 1, following hits like “Not Like Us,” “Like That,” and “Humble.” The Compton-born rapper has long been celebrated for his thought-provoking lyrics and genre-defying artistry, and “Luther” showcases his versatility. It’s also his longest-running No. 1, surpassing his previous record of three weeks with “Not Like Us” and “Like That.”

SZA, meanwhile, earns her third Hot 100 No. 1 with “Luther,” following “Kill Bill” and her feature on Drake’s “Slime You Out.” The St. Louis native, known for her raw vulnerability and soulful voice, has called working with Kendrick a transformative experience. In an interview on Sherri, SZA expressed her admiration for Kendrick’s genius, hinting at the possibility of a joint album in the future. “He’s so good at saying yes and staying grounded,” she said, describing how his expertise has shaped her creative journey.

Their collaboration is a testament to their shared vision and mutual respect. “Luther” isn’t just a chart-topper; it’s a celebration of Black artistry, blending rap, R&B, and cultural references in a way that feels both timeless and fresh. Fans have taken to social media to praise the duo, with posts calling the song “organic” and a “cultural reset” for hip-hop and R&B.

Breaking Barriers on the Charts

“Luther” has made history in more ways than one. It’s the first song to simultaneously top both the Adult R&B Airplay and Rap Airplay charts, a feat that speaks to its crossover appeal. The track has also dominated other Billboard charts, including Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (19 weeks at No. 1), Hot Rap Songs (19 weeks), Streaming Songs (seven weeks), and Radio Songs (five weeks). Its ability to resonate across genres has made it a staple on radio stations and streaming platforms alike.

The song’s chart performance reflects its staying power in a competitive music landscape. While other hits like Alex Warren’s “Ordinary” (No. 2), Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars’ “Die With a Smile” (No. 3), and Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” (No. 4) have held strong in the Hot 100’s top 10, “Luther” has consistently outperformed them. This dominance is especially notable given the lack of a music video for much of its early chart run, proving that the song’s quality alone was enough to captivate listeners.

Cultural Impact and Future Prospects

Beyond the numbers, “Luther” has sparked meaningful conversations about legacy, collaboration, and the evolution of hip-hop and R&B. By paying homage to Luther Vandross, Kendrick and SZA have bridged generational gaps, reminding fans of the enduring influence of classic R&B while pushing the boundaries of modern music. The song’s success also highlights the power of authentic storytelling in an industry often driven by trends and viral moments.

As “Luther” continues its historic run, all eyes are on Kendrick and SZA. Their Grand National Tour, set to wrap up on June 18 in Landover, Maryland, promises to keep the song’s momentum going. Meanwhile, speculation about a potential joint album has fans buzzing with excitement. Given their track record, it’s clear that whatever they do next will be worth the wait.

For now, “Luther” stands as a testament to the magic that happens when two musical giants come together. Its 12-week reign atop the Billboard Hot 100 is more than a chart achievement—it’s a cultural milestone that celebrates artistry, resilience, and the power of music to unite. As Kendrick and SZA continue to break records and inspire fans, “Luther” will undoubtedly remain a defining moment in their careers and in music history.

Must Read :- Gen Z Is Bringing Back 2000s Fashion Aesthetics Through Instagram Reels