Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s ‘Luther’ Tops the Billboard Hot 100
Kendrick Lamar and SZA have achieved another milestone as their latest song, “Luther,” secures the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100.
This marks the sixth time Kendrick Lamar has topped the chart, while for SZA, it is her third No. 1 hit. The song replaced “Not Like Us,” another track by Lamar, which briefly returned to the top position following its performance during the Super Bowl LIX halftime show on February 9, 2025.
‘Luther’ Gains Massive Popularity Across Streaming and Radio Charts
The song’s success extends beyond the Billboard Hot 100. “Luther” has seen significant growth in multiple metrics, with 46.7 million radio airplay impressions, 45.2 million official streams (a 6% increase from the previous week), and 6,000 digital sales in the U.S. from February 14-20, 2025.
Additionally, “Luther” climbed from No. 2 to No. 1 on the Streaming Songs chart and reached a new peak on the Radio Songs chart, moving from No. 7 to No. 6. The track’s continuous rise highlights its widespread appeal and staying power.
Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s Impact on Music Charts
Kendrick Lamar has now accumulated six No. 1 hits throughout his career, including “HUMBLE.” (2017) and “Bad Blood” (2015) with Taylor Swift. Remarkably, four out of his six chart-topping songs have been achieved in the last eleven months, making him one of the fastest-rising male artists on the Hot 100 since Justin Timberlake in 2006-2007.
Meanwhile, SZA’s success continues with three No. 1 songs, including “Slime You Out” (feat. Drake) and “Kill Bill” (2023). Her consistent presence on the top of the charts further solidifies her influence in the R&B and hip-hop genres.
The Unique Sound of ‘Luther’ and Its Musical Influence
One of the standout features of “Luther” is its clever use of a sample from Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn’s 1982 hit “If This World Were Mine.” The original track peaked at No. 4 on the R&B/Hip-Hop charts, and its revival in “Luther” brings a nostalgic yet fresh feel to modern audiences.
While Vandross never reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 as a lead artist, his voice has been featured in multiple chart-topping songs, including “Slow Jamz” by Twista and “Le Freak” by Chic.
Drake Sets a New Billboard Record
In addition to Lamar and SZA’s success, Drake has set another record by placing two new songs in the Billboard Hot 100 Top 10 simultaneously.
- “Gimme a Hug” debuted at No. 6.
- “Nokia” landed at No. 10.
With these achievements, Drake now holds a record-breaking 80 songs that have entered the Billboard Hot 100 Top 10, further solidifying his dominance in the industry.
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‘Luther’ Continues Its Chart Domination
The overwhelming success of “Luther” reinforces Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s dominance in the music industry. As the song continues to break records and climb charts, it showcases the power of hip-hop and R&B in shaping today’s musical landscape. With strong streaming numbers, impressive radio airplay, and a compelling nostalgic sample, “Luther” is set to remain a defining hit of 2025.
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